Care and cost benefits of Castlight’s GLP-1 & Weight Management Program

GLP-1 medications have generated massive interest as powerful tools for weight loss and managing conditions like type 2 diabetes. In fact, according to Business Group on Health’s “2025 Employer Health Care Strategy Survey,” 79% of employers have seen an increased interest in obesity medications. And, with skyrocketing costs associated with these medications, 96% of employers worry about the long-term cost implications of covering GLP-1s.

Fortunately, with personalized support from Castlight Health’s GLP-1 & Weight Management Program, organizations can balance both cost containment and members receiving curated care based on clinical appropriateness. 

Our comprehensive program delivers an integrated solution that addresses the rising costs of GLP-1 by guiding members towards appropriate medication usage while reducing unnecessary hospital visits and high-cost specialty visits. Our program also effectively addresses the individual challenges associated with sustainable weight loss, so members can move forward with positive changes rather than fall behind with expensive stop-gaps.

Castlight’s diverse care team centers on the member to develop a personalized, evidence-based care plan that addresses appropriate medication usage, and lifestyle and behavior changes. And with our high-tech, high-touch care model, we can engage and manage members to achieve long-term weight loss and improvement in weight-related comorbid conditions. By addressing members’ whole health, our model leads to improved clinical outcomes and a reduction in total cost of care.

What are GLP-1 medications, and why do they matter?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone that plays a key role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. By increasing feelings of fullness, slowing digestion, and regulating insulin, GLP-1 medications are an effective tool for weight loss and managing type 2 diabetes.

These drugs can be incredibly effective, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why Castlight offers an integrated, holistic program that helps members feel supported, confident, and in control of their health—so they can focus on living, not just managing healthcare.

Three personalized paths to better GLP-1 care

Through Castlight’s GLP-1 & Weight Management Program, members receive a personalized plan informed by experts and built around their unique needs.

When members enroll, they’re placed into one of three care pathways based on their eligibility,  medical history, and current GLP-1 usage. 

1. Medical Management

For members currently on—or clinically appropriate for—GLP-1 support and have a BMI less than or equal to 30 or a BMI 27-30 with a weight-related condition.

2. Diabetes Education

For members currently on—or clinically appropriate for—GLP-1 support and have type 2 diabetes. This pathway puts members into Castlight’s nationally accredited Diabetes Self-Management Education & Support (DSMES) Program.

3. Lifestyle Management

For members who have been denied GLP-1 support and/or do not meet clinical criteria but are interested in weight loss with no GLP-1 use or medication.

Dedicated, coordinated, and comprehensive support

Once a pathway has been established, a dedicated clinical team surrounds each member with support, including:

• Primary care provider: Think of PCPs as the guides who prescribe GLP-1s based on each member’s unique needs. They ensure GLP-1 is being used appropriately and receive visit notes and care plans after the member visits other specialists, to stay informed of the big picture at every step.
• RN care manager: RNs lead triage and intake. They also manage weight-related comorbidities, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
• Care Guide: Care Guides light the way to simplified healthcare navigation by providing one-on-one, human-to-human assistance with pharmacy orders, benefits questions, appointment scheduling, and more. They can also be reached conveniently via chat.
• Diabetes and nutrition educator: A registered dietitian and, when needed, a Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist (CDCES) oversee medication management, while equipping members with lifestyle and behavior change strategies tailored to their goals.
• Health Coach: Board-certified Health Coaches collaborate with members to set goals and focus areas that the broader care team can help support. These coaches act as accountability partners, providing ongoing check-ins even after a member finishes the program.

Designed to benefit you and your members

Whether a member is actively taking a GLP-1 medication, wants to explore it, or is simply seeking help managing their weight, Castlight’s GLP-1 & Weight Management Program results in:

• Reduced total cost of care: Inappropriate prescriptions can lead to wasted budgets and worsened outcomes. Our holistic care team ensures safe, appropriate, sustained results that improve long-term health and drive cost efficiency.
• Fewer hospital visits: By decreasing the risk of medical emergencies related to obesity-related comorbid conditions, we help members avoid unnecessary hospital admissions and high-cost specialty visits.
• Integrated patient experience: By connecting each element of a member’s care journey, we offer a seamless, supportive experience that treats the whole person—not just one symptom or diagnosis.

All together, that means improved outcomes for both your team’s well-being and your organization’s bottom line.

Take the first step towards sustainable weight management for your team

Managing one’s weight—or health in general—can be burdensome. It means making tough decisions, interpreting complex benefits, and juggling everything else life demands.

But with Castlight, members don’t have to do it alone. 

We simplify the process, support their journey from all angles, and help them make the most of their benefits for long-term success.

If you’re concerned about cost containment while also adding more value to your benefits packages, especially when it comes to GLP-1 support, Castlight can help you strike the right balance of affordability, simplicity, and quality care. 

Learn more about all Castlight solutions, including the GLP-1 & Weight Management Program, or request a demo today.