Weight Loss Injections
(GLP-1s)
Weight Loss injections (GLP-1s) are only prescribed via the NHS for those with a BMI greater than 40 with 4 out of 5 medical conditions (detailed below). Please do not contact your GP unless you are eligible.
New national guidance was published at the end of March 2025, which outlines a phased rollout for weight management medicines within the NHS. The rollout will start with patients who have the greatest clinical need and may take 12 years before full implementation is achieved.
The new guidance will allow access to weight management medicines in Specialist Weight Management Services and Primary Care. This is a significant change to previous guidance. NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire are currently working towards development of a local implementation plan in line with national recommendations to improve access to weight management treatments for patients. In the meantime GPs are not able to prescribe weight management medicines.
For more information about local services and eligibility for NHS funded Weight Management support visit the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care System
NHS Funded (Phase 1) – Patients with serious health conditions will be able to get Weight Loss Injections (GLP-1) on the NHS
To get Weight Loss Injections (GLP-1) free via the NHS, you must:
· Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more,
AND have at least four of the following health problems:
o High blood pressure
o High cholesterol or fat levels in your blood
o Sleep apnea (trouble breathing while sleeping)
o Heart disease
o Type 2 diabetes
Weight Loss Injections (GLP-1s) can help to promote weight loss when used by patients alongside a calorie-controlled diet and positive lifestyle changes.
Eligible patients can contact their GP Practice to discuss eligibility criteria and next steps for referrals. Patients will be encouraged to access local NHS-supported healthy living initiatives, such as Healthy Worcestershire and activity/exercise groups, as part of their overall weight loss journey. Patients who do not commit to adopting a healthier lifestyle alongside the medication may be refused treatment.
More details on NICE’s decision to approve this treatment for NHS use can be found here
Private Prescribing - Non-eligible patients
Over time, the eligibility criteria may change, and updates will be provided by NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB). Patients who do not meet the above criteria are kindly asked to refrain from contacting their GP practice with requests for Weight Loss Injections (GLP-1). Weight loss treatment is available privately. More information can be gained from your local pharmacy or reviewing the private healthcare providers:
We will make more information about access to Weight Loss Injections (GLP-1s) available over the coming months so please do check back for updates.
More information for healthy lifestyle changes can be found on our Health Check page (click here) and Weight Management (click here)
Please note: Well by Vertis are part of Vertis Health, the Worcestershire GP federation of which our PCN and practices are members. We are, however, keen to ensure patients choose the provider that best suits their needs—and so encourage patients to select their provider from the range of options provided.
The contents of this website are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Throughout this website are links to other websites which are not under the control of Droitwich, Ombersley & The Rurals Primary Care Network. We have no control over the nature, content and accuracy of these sites.