When Life-Saving Medications Become a Battlefield
By Dr. Trevor Huber
In the last year, medications like Ozempic® and Mounjaro® have become headline news—mainly because of their connection to weight loss. But as a practicing family physician, I want to bring the conversation back to the truth behind these medications: they are life-saving treatments for people with diabetes and chronic conditions—and more patients are being denied access to them every day.
Let’s break this down.
GLP-1s Are More Than a Trend
Medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, Trulicity, and others in the GLP-1 family aren’t new. I’ve been prescribing them for years. Before Ozempic, there was Victoza—a once-daily injectable that changed the game for diabetic patients. These drugs have always had strong data. But now, we have even more research confirming their effectiveness:
38% reduction in heart attack and stroke risk
30% lower risk of developing dementia
22% decrease in kidney disease progression
These aren’t cosmetic results. These are life-altering, life-saving outcomes for people struggling with uncontrolled diabetes—especially those who used to be limited to insulin as their only option.
The Real Problem? Insurance Companies.
Here’s where it gets frustrating: just as these medications have become more advanced and more effective, insurance companies have started to pull back. Patients are being hit with sky-high deductibles, tighter restrictions, and more denials. The same medications that were once affordable are now suddenly out of reach—not because the science changed, but because the system changed.
I’ve sat across from patients in tears because the drug that helped them feel like themselves again is now unaffordable. I’ve watched families scramble to find samples, coupons, or alternatives. And I’ve fought behind the scenes—writing appeals, calling pharmacies, begging insurance reps—trying to get what we already know they need.
If You’re Struggling, You’re Not Alone
Every Sunday, I sit in church. I tithe. I pray. I ask for discernment—to make the right choices and help the people I serve. So when someone accuses me or other physicians of taking advantage of patients by recommending these medications, it cuts deep.
Because I know the truth: it’s not doctors taking advantage of patients. It’s the system.
And we’re doing everything we can to fight back.
We Need a Healthcare System That Doesn’t Withhold Care
Every law, every policy, every regulation that governs our work should exist to protect patients. But that’s not always how it plays out. Today’s system is built on operating models that reward withholding care, not providing it.
That’s not medicine. That’s management.
My promise, as a doctor and as a believer, is this: I will keep fighting for you. I will help your doctor fight for you. And together, we’ll keep finding creative, ethical, innovative solutions to get the care you need—because your life matters more than a bottom line.
If you’re navigating this battle right now, I see you. I feel for you. And I’m standing with you.
Let’s keep the conversation going.
If you’ve been denied a medication or need help navigating access, reach out to your physician—and don’t be afraid to ask for a partner in the process. You deserve nothing less.
#PatientAdvocacy #GLP1Truth #ModernMedicine #DrHuber #Mounjaro #Ozempic #FixHealthcare
