NHS Obesity Medication Pathway Rollout
We would like to provide an update regarding the national phased rollout of the NHS Obesity Medication Pathway, which includes medications such as Mounjaro (Tirzepatide).
This pathway is being introduced gradually over the next three years, with strict eligibility criteria set at a national level to ensure it is offered to those most in need.
Current Eligibility – Cohort One (2025 – 2026)
At present, only patients who meet all of the following criteria are eligible for referral:
- A most recent Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40, and
- Four or more qualifying medical conditions (comorbidities), as defined by the national pathway.
We kindly ask patients not to book GP appointments solely to discuss eligibility for this pathway. We need to ensure that appointment availability remains accessible for all other medical concerns.
Instead, our practice team will proactively contact eligible patients based on their medical records to offer the opportunity for referral to the NHS Obesity Medication Pathway. This will include access to wrap-around care provided through local NHS services.
To provide context, for our practice population of over 9,000 patients, we anticipate that only around 10 to 20 patients will be eligible for referral during this first phase.
Future Phases
The second phase of the rollout, expected between 2026 and 2027, will also have strict criteria and, based on current information, is likely to include only around 20 to 30 additional patients from our practice.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as this national programme is introduced. Should your eligibility change or further phases be announced, we will ensure affected patients are contacted.
Thank you for your cooperation
Orchard Surgery