Dietitians Australia has issued a national call to action, urging the Australian Government to ensure that individuals prescribed weight loss drugs are also provided with access to dietitian support. The announcement was made at Australian Parliament House, highlighting concerns as pharmaceutical companies seek to broaden the use of GLP-1RA medicines beyond diabetes management in Australia.
“We must not overlook the importance of nutrition when it comes to the safe use of these medicines,” stated Dr Fiona Willer, President of Dietitians Australia. “We cannot continue to risk handing out prescriptions for these medications without adequate wraparound care, including personalized medical nutrition therapy from a dietitian.”
Concerns Over Nutritional Impact
Dr Willer emphasized the critical role of nutrition, especially as GLP-1RA medicines significantly alter appetite. “Eating well is critical, absorbing adequate nutrition from food is critical, even when taking a medicine that suppresses one’s appetite,” she noted. Without dietitian support, patients may face malnutrition, muscle and bone mass loss, and longer-term risks such as disordered eating patterns.
Magriet Raxworthy, CEO of Dietitians Australia, highlighted the financial barriers to accessing dietetic care under current Medicare funding. “Our current Medicare funding limitations often leave people without affordable access to the nutrition guidance they need,” she said.
Global Context and Local Implications
The announcement comes amid increasing global examples where individuals with higher body weight and multiple co-morbidities receive government-funded access to weight loss medicines. Raxworthy stressed the importance of including funded dietetic care if the Australian Government follows suit. “This investment must ensure sustainable results by including dietetic care,” she added.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare,
66% of Australian adults are now living with overweight and obesity, with obesity being the leading risk factor for disease burden in Australia.
Expert Opinions on Comprehensive Care
Dr Terri-Lynne South, Chair of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners Obesity Management Specific Interest Group, echoed the need for comprehensive solutions. “Obesity is a complex health issue that requires comprehensive solutions – it is not just about losing weight, it is about gaining health,” she remarked.
Dr South also highlighted the role of dietitians in maximizing health benefits and minimizing side effects for patients using GLP-1RA medication. “Better access to nutritional care in Australia is critical,” she stated.
Looking Ahead
The move represents a significant push for integrated healthcare approaches, with dietitians playing a pivotal role in patient support. Dr Fiona Willer concluded by urging the Government to establish safe and effective weight-related supports. “We urge the Government to lay the foundations for safe and effective weight-related supports in this country now,” she said.
This development follows a broader conversation on healthcare integration, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for holistic patient care in managing complex health issues like obesity.
