<2>Mounjaro: GP Incentive to Prescribe Weight Loss Jabs Won’t Tackle Rollout Problems, Experts Warn
<3>Background and Context
The upcoming 2026-27 GP contract is set to introduce new incentives for general practitioners (GPs) to refer eligible patients to weight loss programmes and prescribe weight loss jabs such as tirzepatide (Mounjaro). This move is part of a broader effort to address the growing issue of obesity in England.
<3>Government Funding and Incentives
The government has allocated £25m of ringfenced funding to support the addition of two new indicators to the quality and outcomes framework. This framework rewards general practices for performing specific actions, and the new indicators are designed to incentivize GPs to identify and support adults living with obesity.
<3>Expert Concerns and Criticisms
However, experts have expressed concerns that the incentive will not make a significant difference in patients’ ability to access weight loss jabs. They argue that the rollout of these jabs will be hindered by various factors, including a lack of infrastructure, inadequate training for healthcare professionals, and limited availability of the medication.
<3>Characteristics of the Incentive
The incentive