The GLP-1 Equation: Balancing Innovation, Access & Cost - 2026 NextGen Healthcare Summit Recording Series

In this episode of Risk & Resolve, it breaks down the exploding cost of GLP-1 medications and why many organizations are spending millions on diabetes care—with little improvement in health outcomes. Featuring leaders from American Senior Communities and Northwind, this conversation explores a bold, mandatory program that combines medication, coaching, and accountability to drive real health improvements. From behavior change to data-driven strategy, this episode challenges the “medication-first” mindset and reveals what it actually takes to reverse chronic conditions at scale.Main Talking PointsThe wake-up question: Are we spending millions on medications while employees remain sick?Why diabetes medication costs can be 10x higher than any other condition category  The decision to carve out diabetes care and implement a mandatory, managed programHow Northwind’s model removes barriers: cost, access, complexity, and fragmentationThe power of combining medication + health coaching + accountabilityWhy “mandatory” can actually be the most compassionate approach to employee healthThe reality of behavior change: why people resist—and how to move them anywayKey KPIs that matter: engagement, risk reduction, GLP-1 utilization, and cost per patientResults that matter: improved A1Cs, reduced high-risk populations, and lower overall spendThe hidden dangers of GLP-1 overuse and “set-it-and-forget-it” prescribingWhy medication alone is insufficient—and often just masks the problemThe long-term risk: how today’s solutions could create future health and cost issuesCommunication strategy at scale: reaching a fragmented workforce effectivelyReal-world impact: helping patients move toward remission—not just managementWhy sustainable health requires behavior change—not just prescriptions