My Personal Story: Why This Matters Deeply to Me
This issue is not theoretical for my family—it’s personal.

A close family member of mine has been fighting a difficult battle with obesity, made even harder by several serious health conditions. These conditions require daily medications that, unfortunately, cause significant weight gain. On top of that, their health challenges severely limit their ability to exercise or engage in physical activity—leaving them trapped in a body that is working against them.

Despite a strong commitment to improving their health, our insurance—provided through their employer—refuses to cover bariatric care, including surgery or even medications to support weight loss. So, like many Tennesseans, we are forced to pay out of pocket for weight loss medications that could—and should—be part of a standard treatment plan for someone in their condition.

We’re not alone. Thousands of families in Tennessee are struggling in silence, facing impossible choices between financial stability and life-saving care.

No one should be denied access to proven medical treatment just because their insurance doesn’t recognize obesity as the chronic illness it is. We can and must do better—for my family, for yours, and for the future of healthcare in Tennessee.

Obesity is not a choice—it is a chronic disease with life-threatening consequences. Over 35% of Tennesseans are affected by obesity (CDC), placing them at increased risk for diabetes, heart disease, cancer, joint issues, and early mortality. Yet many private insurance plans in Tennessee still refuse to cover the full range of evidence-based obesity treatments, including bariatric surgery and medical management.

Meanwhile, 17 other states (including New York, California, Illinois, and Virginia) have already enacted legislation requiring insurers to provide this vital coverage. It’s time for Tennessee to do the same.

📊 Why This Matters:
Bariatric surgery results in sustained weight loss, diabetes remission (up to 78%), and a 40% reduction in cardiovascular mortality.
Comprehensive obesity care, such as dietitian access, counseling, and medication, is essential for those who do not qualify—or are not ready—for surgery.
Untreated obesity costs Tennessee over $3.6 billion annually in healthcare costs (Trust for America’s Health).
Coverage leads to better health outcomes, reduced long-term costs, and increased workforce productivity.
Denying coverage for obesity treatment is discriminatory, short-sighted, and contrary to the best interests of Tennesseans.

💡 What We’re Asking For:
We call on Governor Lee and our state lawmakers to pass legislation that:

Requires private insurance companies to cover bariatric surgery for eligible patients.
Ensures coverage of comprehensive bariatric management including weight-loss medications, supervised programs, counseling, and follow-up care.
Brings Tennessee in line with the 17 other states already protecting patients with obesity.
Together, we can reduce suffering, save lives, and improve the future of public health in Tennessee.

Please sign and share this petition. Your voice can make a difference.