World Obesity Day Special - How PAs can shape the Future of Obesity Care: Science, Access, and Comprehensive Treatment

In recognition of World Obesity Day, this JAAPA Podcast episode brings together three Physician Associates who specialize in obesity medicine to discuss the current state of obesity care. The conversation examines comprehensive treatment in the era of direct-to-consumer GLP1 prescribing, the role of multidisciplinary care, and the growing policy discussions around Medicare and Medicaid coverage for anti-obesity medications. The panel also addresses how media portrayals and weight stigma influence patient experiences, how internalized bias affects engagement in care, and the persistent disparities in screening and access to treatment. This episode highlights the critical role PAs play in advancing evidence-based obesity care and advocating for equitable, patient centered treatment.