Obesity & Diabetes Patients To Get Free Weight Loss Drugs In €5 Million Scheme

Minister for Health and Active Ageing Jo Etienne Abela has announced a significant development in public healthcare with the introduction of a new class of medication known as GLP-1 agonists, which have shown positive results in managing diabetes and excess weight.

The Minister said that, following careful evaluation and consultation with healthcare professionals, the Government has adopted a responsible approach based on scientific evidence and long-term sustainability.

He noted that while this medication alone is not sufficient, it provides effective treatment which, when combined with physical activity, a balanced diet and multidisciplinary support, can improve overall wellbeing.

The first phase of the initiative will target around 2,000 patients with Type 2 diabetes and severe obesity, defined as Class 3 obesity with a BMI of 40 or above. The investment for this phase is approximately €5 million.

The Minister said that diabetes and obesity have a significant impact on both physical and mental health, as well as quality of life, and stressed that the approach addresses patients in a holistic manner rather than focusing on a single condition.

He added that the therapy will be supported by continuous monitoring and professional care to ensure effective and sustainable outcomes. The initiative is expected to expand gradually to reach more patients, while maintaining a strong focus on scientific evidence and sustainability.

Abela concluded that the measure reflects a modern vision for public healthcare, placing the patient at the centre by combining innovation with responsibility within a sustainable framework.

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