Exploring Affordability, Accessibility, and Health Outcomes among Non-Diabetic Patients Using Anti-Obesity Injections: A Qualitative Study in Hamilton and the Niagara Region
Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Background: Obesity is a global public health concern, with broader physical and economic implications for individuals, families, the health care system and society. Despite preventive and therapeutic measures, long-term weight loss remains challenging, leading to increased demand for expensive pharmacotherapies. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of non-diabetics, focusing on the economic factors that influence access to and utilization of weight-loss pharmacotherapy. Methods: Qualitative research applied semi-structured interviews with 12 non-diabetic individuals undergoing anti-obesity pharmacotherapy. Participants were recruited through family physicians' clinics in the Niagara Region and Hamilton area using purposive and snowball sampling. Interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams and were audio-recorded for transcription. Transcripts were coded in NVivo software and thematic analysis was performed to generate themes/sub-themes. Results: Participants revealed benefits of anti-obesity pharmacotherapies as well as access disparities among uninsured individuals compared to those with insurance coverage. Five themes emerged from participants' experiences: 1) Financial and Insurance barriers to Access, 2) Navigation of the Healthcare System and the Influence of Providers, 3) Perceived Health and Quality of Life Benefits, 4) Health Trajectories and Psychosocial Experiences of Obesity, 5) Treatment Challenges and Long-Term Sustainability. Insurance gaps further led to treatment discontinuation or switching between brands, with some patients staying on reduced dosages due to high medication costs. Some participants reported receiving insurance coverage, while others paid entirely out of pocket, creating inequities in treatment access. Self-paying patients reported financial strain, suggesting public and private insurance coverage for obese and overweight individuals to prevent long-term metabolic syndromes. Conclusion: This study underscores the financial and accessibility-related barriers experienced by non-diabetic individuals utilizing anti-obesity pharmacotherapy. Addressing these challenges requires expanded insurance coverage and government-led financial assistance programs to facilitate patient-centred care models for improving long-term health outcomes. The findings imply policy reforms for promoting equitable access to healthcare, improving long-term health outcomes, enhancing quality of life, and preventing subsequent obesity-related metabolic complications. Keywords: Obesity, Non-diabetics, Weight loss, Pharmacotherapy, Access, Financial barriers.
Author: Alagha, Dana
Institution: Brock University
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacology (medical)
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7214867233