GLP-1 medications have become a cornerstone of Medicare Advantage (MA) strategies to manage obesity, diabetes, and cardiometabolic risk. And with emerging research pointing to additional benefits—from reduced cancer risk to improved brain health—their role in promoting healthy aging is growing (Mavromatis, 2025, Huan-Tang Lin, 2025).
But these medications are not without risk—particularly for older adults. Studies show that 40–60% of weight lost on GLP-1s may be lean mass, a tradeoff that can lead to falls, joint instability, pain, and loss of independence (Neeland, 2024).
With GLP-1 use rising and MA spending projected to hit $8 billion in the next decade (Hwang, 2025), now is the time to think beyond the medication. Because the ultimate goal isn’t just weight loss—it’s keeping members mobile, pain-free, and thriving on their own terms.
The Risk No One's Monitoring: Musculoskeletal (MSK) Decline
When older adults lose significant muscle mass alongside fat, the consequences extend far beyond what appears on the scale. The risks are substantial:
- Falls and fractures from decreased muscle strength and stability
- Loss of mobility and independence as functional capacity declines
- Exacerbation of chronic musculoskeletal conditions
- Increased need for imaging, procedures, or specialist referrals
And these concerns only paint part of the picture. As members lose weight, other underlying MSK issues may surface—and at the same time, the risk of other medication-related complications persist (Long, 2024).
Without integrated MSK support, Medicare Advantage members taking GLP-1s may experience worse quality of life despite successful weight loss. These compounding challenges can increase total cost of care, suppress CAHPS scores, and ultimately affect Star Ratings performance.
Without integrated MSK support, Medicare Advantage members taking GLP-1s may experience worse quality of life despite successful weight loss.
A Smarter GLP-1 Strategy: Integrated MSK Care
Medicare Advantage members deserve more than weight loss—they deserve extended healthspan. That’s why Vori Health addresses GLP-1-induced muscle loss through an integrated care model.
"Medical Advantage members need physician-led comprehensive care before they begin losing muscle mass on GLP-1s," explains Vori Health's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mary O'Connor, MD, FAAOS. "Fragmented, reactive approaches can put their quality of life, longevity, and independence at risk."
Vori Health's integrated model combines specialty physicians, physical therapists, registered dietitians, and health coaches from day one. With our support, MA plans can:
- Preserve mobility and muscle mass in GLP-1 users, enhancing MSK strength through targeted physical therapy protocols
- Address pain and functional decline early before they escalate to expensive interventions
- Support sustainable behavior change through coordinated physical therapy, health coaching, and dietary guidance
- Improve CAHPS and Star Ratings by delivering the trusted, whole-person care that older adults prefer
This physician-led approach ensures medical oversight throughout the care journey, helping to prevent costs and reduce risks from more common approaches.
"Medical Advantage members need physician-led comprehensive care before they begin losing muscle mass on GLP-1s," explains Vori Health's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mary O'Connor, MD, FAAOS. "Fragmented, reactive approaches can put their quality of life, longevity, and independence at risk."
Targeting Healthspan in Addition to MSK
Critically, Vori’s approach targets healthspan extension by preserving the muscle mass and functional capacity essential for independence. By addressing strength, mobility, and metabolic health through coordinated medical and rehabilitation care, the model helps members achieve the functional longevity they need to thrive.
The clinical evidence reflects these goals. A peer-reviewed study of Vori Health's Medicare Advantage patients demonstrated remarkable results (O’Connor, 2025):
- 83 percent of patients reporting pain improvement
- 84–86 percent of patients experiencing improved physical function
- Imaging in just 2 percent of cases, avoiding unnecessary procedures
- Multidisciplinary physician-led care with 50% of patients engaging with a health coach and up to 15% with a dietitian, reflecting demand for whole-person support
In short, early physician evaluation and cohesive, physician-led care deliver superior outcomes for Medicare Advantage members. They help avoid unnecessary procedures and align with what seniors trust most: comprehensive medical oversight.
The Path Forward
Weight loss alone is not a health outcome—for older adults, the real goal is preserving independence, preventing falls, and staying pain-free. Plans that embrace this approach can see better results across the metrics that matter most: both the clinical outcomes and member satisfaction that drive Star Ratings performance. Medicare Advantage plans have an opportunity to differentiate their GLP-1 strategies by addressing the complete member experience as a result.
GLP-1s help members lose weight. Vori helps them keep living well.
Get the full conversation about how Vori Health can help your Medicare Advantage plan improve GLP-1 outcomes while preserving member strength and function. Access a free demonstration today.
REFERENCES
- Mavromatis, et. al 2025. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and incidence of obesity-related cancer in adults with diabetes: A target-trial emulation study. Journal of Clinical Oncology.
- Huan-Tang Lin, et. al, 2025. Neurodegeneration and Stroke After Semaglutide and Tirzepatide in Patients With Diabetes and Obesity. JAMA Network.
- Neeland, et. al., 2024. Changes in lean body mass with glucagon-like peptide-1-based therapies and mitigation strategies. Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism.
- Hwang, et. al, 2025. Fiscal Impact of Expanded Medicare Coverage for GLP-1 Receptor Agonists to Treat Obesity. JAMA Health Forum.
- Long, et. al., 2024. GLP-1 agonists: A review for emergency clinicians. The American Journal of Emergency Medicine.
- O’Connor, 2025. Clinical Efficacy of Telemedicine for Musculoskeletal Conditions in a Medicare Advantage Population. Telemedicine Reports.
