A Remote Program for Navigator‐ and Pharmacist‐Led Management of Obesity Medications in Adults: Rationale, Design, and Implementation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Objective: Remote interventions leveraging team-based care may ameliorate persistent gaps in obesity medication implementation, but prospective studies are lacking. In this paper, the design, enrollment, and implementation of a remote intervention for obesity medications are described. Methods: The Supplementary Anti-Obesity Medication Integration into a Longitudinal Obesity (SAIL) study is a fully remote program with pharmacist- and navigator-led obesity medication implementation. Individuals with body mass index (BMI)-defined overweight or obesity receiving a digital lifestyle intervention were recruited for participation in SAIL via a survey. Effectiveness outcomes included obesity medication prescription and body weight change at 6 months. Focus groups were conducted with study staff after program completion to identify implementation barriers and solutions. Results: ). Focus groups identified multiple implementation challenges and opportunities, including medication access, insurance coverage, and patient education. Addressing misinformation, frequent patient engagement, and program flexibility emerged as unique strengths of SAIL. Conclusions: The final results of SAIL will inform the effectiveness of remote, algorithm-driven, navigator- and pharmacist-led programs for obesity medication prescription and management.
Source: Obesity Science & Practice
DOI: 10.1002/osp4.70176
Authors: Bryn Falahee, John W. Ostrominski, Kavishwar B. Wagholikar, Ozan Unlu, David Zelle, Sanjay Kumar, Daniel Gabovitch, Michela Tucci, Austen Smith, Hunter Nichols, Irene G. McCarthy, Samar Mushtaque, Tabitha V. Rutkowski, Ashley C. McCarthy, Heather J. Baer, Christopher P. Cannon, Naomi D. L. Fisher, Jorge Plutzky, Caroline M. Apovian, Benjamin M. Scirica, Alexander J. Blood
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,260
Awards: G3327612667, G40626979
OpenAlex ID: W7203553280