Wyoming Medicaid’s Approach to Weight Loss Programs
Wyoming Medicaid provides certain coverage for weight management and obesity-related services, but this coverage has significant limitations and does not include most weight loss medications. Understanding what’s included—and what isn’t—can help you make informed decisions and seek the right support.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Counseling
Nutrition Counseling: Wyoming Medicaid covers medical nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietitian for adults with obesity, but adults are limited to 12 visits per year. These services must be ordered by a physician or nurse practitioner, and some preventive counseling may also be available for chronic health conditions[117].
Intensive Behavioral Therapy for Obesity: Wyoming Medicaid offers some coverage for intensive behavioral therapy, but its availability for obesity specifically is limited. The program is not exclusively focused on obesity management, and not all types of behavioral therapy are covered[113].
Weight Talk Program: The state supports a proactive phone-based coaching program, which includes sessions for individuals with severe obesity, those considering bariatric surgery, or people with diabetes. Enrollment typically requires a referral from a healthcare provider[117].
Obesity Medications
Weight Loss Medications Not Covered: Wyoming Medicaid does not cover prescription weight loss medications (anorexiants), including newer GLP-1 medications like Wegovy (semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide), regardless of obesity diagnosis[113][115]. These drugs fall under a category that Wyoming has explicitly excluded from coverage, except when prescribed for FDA-approved uses such as type 2 diabetes.
Exception for Children: Under Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit, all medically necessary services for children must be covered, which could theoretically include weight loss medications for severe childhood obesity. However, in practice, coverage for these drugs is not standard in Wyoming[118].
Weight Loss Surgery (Bariatric Surgery)
Coverage with Restrictions: Wyoming Medicaid may cover bariatric surgery, such as gastric bypass, gastric band, or sleeve gastrectomy, but only under strict criteria. Candidates must have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or 35 or higher with one or more significant comorbidities (e.g., type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea). They must also have documentation showing prior, unsuccessful attempts at weight loss—including participation in a supervised weight loss program—and must complete a mental health evaluation[113][114][117].
Prior Authorization Required: Each case is reviewed individually, and prior authorization from Medicaid is required before surgery can be scheduled. Not all applicants will be approved, even if they meet the BMI and health criteria[114].
What’s Not Covered
Over-the-Counter Weight Loss Products: Wyoming Medicaid does not cover over-the-counter diet pills, supplements, or meal replacement products.
Cosmetic Weight Loss Procedures: Procedures performed solely for cosmetic reasons, such as liposuction, are not covered.
Most Prescription Weight Loss Medications: As noted above, medications specifically indicated for weight loss are excluded, with the exception of certain cases for children under EPSDT[113][115].
How to Access Covered Services
If you believe you qualify for covered weight management services, start by talking to your primary care provider. They can refer you to a registered dietitian for nutrition counseling, connect you with behavioral health resources, or initiate the process for bariatric surgery evaluation if appropriate.
For children, if weight management is a serious health concern, discuss all treatment options with your pediatrician, including the possibility of medically necessary interventions covered under EPSDT.
Summary Table
| Service | Covered? | Details & Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Nutrition counseling | Yes (adults) | 12 visits/year, MD/NP referral |
| Intensive behavioral therapy | Limited (adults) | Not obesity-specific, some restrictions |
| Weight loss medications | No (adults) | Excluded, except for diabetes |
| Bariatric surgery | Yes, with restrictions | BMI ≥40 (≥35 + comorbidity), prior attempts, MH eval |
| Weight management coaching | Yes (phone-based) | Referral required |
| OTC diet products | No | Not covered |
| Cosmetic procedures | No | Not covered |
Key Takeaways
Wyoming Medicaid covers nutrition counseling, limited behavioral therapy, and bariatric surgery for those who meet strict medical criteria, but it does not cover most prescription weight loss medications for adults. Children may have broader options under EPSDT, but this is not guaranteed. Always consult with your healthcare provider and Wyoming Medicaid for the most current information and guidance on accessing weight management services.