GPs get £3,000 bonus to maximise weight loss drug prescriptions
BBC World
February 24, 2026
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GPs in England are set to receive a £3,000 annual bonus for prescribing weight loss drugs like Mounjaro under new government incentives. This initiative aims to enhance access to these medications, which have been shown to help individuals struggling with severe obesity. However, the scheme faces criticism due to strict eligibility criteria, limiting its impact. Currently, Mounjaro is prescribed only to those with a BMI over 40 and certain health conditions; next year, this threshold will lower to BMI over 35, but access remains restricted.
The government's move comes amid concerns that many individuals resort to private purchases of weight loss drugs, highlighting disparities in healthcare access. While the incentives are intended to prioritize need over ability to pay, experts caution that the scheme alone won't bridge this gap. The rollout has also been inconsistent, with some GPs prescribing less than expected.
Moreover, there are worries about the sustainability of expanding these treatments without adequate support systems. GPs emphasize that clinical judgment, not financial incentives, drives their decisions. Critics argue that while the bonuses may improve access for some, they don't address the broader need for systemic changes in obesity prevention and food environments to ensure long-term health
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/24/2026