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Big things are happening! Shed and Health-E Commerce are teaming up to make weight-loss visits and medications available on flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA).
Why FSA and HSA Coverage for Weight-Loss Solutions Matters
This new partnership means individuals looking to purchase patient support and weight-loss medications can now use their tax-free healthcare funds safely and conveniently through Shed. With nearly 50% of adults in the U.S. aiming to lose weight, it’s easier than ever to access proven solutions while maximizing your healthcare dollars.
- FSA and HSA eligibility: Many weight-loss programs and prescriptions may qualify for FSA/HSA reimbursement with a doctor’s letter of medical necessity— plus, ongoing health coaching services and supplements may also be covered when prescribed as part of your plan.
- FSA funds typically expire at year-end; HSA funds roll over, offering year-round flexibility.
It's worth noting that according to a recent analysis, Affordable Care Act Marketplace plans rarely cover weight-loss GLP-1 drugs—Wegovy® is covered by just 1% of plans, making HSA/FSA eligibility through partnerships like Shed more important than ever for affordability. [KFF Analysis, 2024]
Exclusive Savings from Shed for FSA/HSA Store Shoppers
Customers shopping at FSA Store and HSA Store receive:
- 50% off their first appointment with a Shed clinician
- 15% off the first month’s subscription—including medication and ongoing provider support
- Eligible options available where medication is prescribed and bundled in the subscription
Access these discounts while using your pre-tax funds, lowering out-of-pocket costs for those ready to start their weight loss journey.
Insurance coverage and payment options: What you need to know for weight-loss medications
- Insurance varies widely: Coverage for medical weight loss treatments, including GLP-1 medications, depends on your insurer and individual plan. Prior authorization and a doctor’s letter are often required.
- Medicare limitations: Medicare typically does not cover drugs prescribed solely for weight loss, but some medications are covered for alternative conditions, such as type 2 diabetes.
In a noteworthy potential policy shift, as of August 2025, Medicare and Medicaid are considering expanding coverage of GLP-1s like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® for obesity—an important development for accessibility if approved. [Axios, 2025]
Notably, nearly 70% of surveyed companies now include GLP-1s in their health plans, though many employers are also focused on balancing coverage and rising healthcare costs. [CFO.com, 2025]
Always review your policy and consult your benefits administrator to clarify your covered options for weight loss treatment—particularly if you intend to use insurance, HSA, or FSA funds. Read more about our policies here.
Why choose telehealth for weight loss? The Shed approach
Programs like Shed offer simple, accessible online care from the comfort of home:
- Connect with board-certified obesity medicine physicians & registered dietitians
- Personalized plans, telemedicine visits, and access to GLP-1 medications
- Seamless shipping of prescriptions to your door
- Support with insurance documentation and HSA/FSA reimbursement processes
- Ongoing professional Health Coaching and lifestyle guidance
It is increasingly important to balance the value and cost of these treatments, as employer healthcare strategy surveys report GLP-1s are driving up health costs for over half of large organizations. [Business Group on Health]
Shed empowers you with both medical and coaching support to achieve—and maintain—healthy, long-term weight loss.
How Shed subscription work
- Monthly medication (customized fsor your needs)
- All necessary medication supplies
- Standard or expedited shipping
- Ongoing virtual care and patient support
- Optional one-on-one health coaching for sustainable progress, often FSA/HSA-eligible with a doctor’s recommendation
- Wellness supplements for essential nutrient replenishment
The effectiveness of GLP-1 medications is supported by major clinical trials: For example, the STEP 3 trial proved semaglutide helped patients achieve an average of nearly 15% weight loss compared to placebo, confirming why provider-managed and evidence-based programs like those at Shed are in high demand. [PMC, 2024]
Quote from the Experts
“Maintaining a healthy weight is a cornerstone to help mitigate and manage illness, and it can help improve outcomes for people with conditions like high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Our new partnership with Shed is important because it makes it easier for FSA and HSA users to get the support they need to achieve and maintain a healthy weight while saving money with their tax-free funds and living healthier lives.”
—Keri Kaiser, Chief Revenue Officer at Health-E Commerce
“Our team of trained clinicians understands how important, yet how hard it can be to safely lose weight and keep it off. By extending this special offer to FSA and HSA users, we hope to change and improve the lives and health of individuals and families across the country.”
—Morley Baker, Chief Executive Officer of Shed
To learn more about FSAs and HSAs and access this special Shed offer, visit FSAstore.com or HSAstore.com.
Frequently asked questions: Weight-loss insurance, FSA, HSA, and telehealth
What should I know about insurance coverage for weight-loss medications?
Insurance coverage for weight-loss medications, including GLP-1s, is varies greatly by insurer and plan. Many companies require a doctor’s letter of medical necessity and may mandate prior authorization. Medicare generally excludes coverage for medications prescribed solely for weight loss, though this could be changing as federal coverage expansion is under consideration. Shed helps navigate these insurance requirements—ensuring you have the right documentation and guidance at every step. Learn more in the official Shed Health-E Commerce announcement.
Are there budget-friendly alternatives for weight management medications?
Yes! Shed provides affordable GLP-1 options, and guidance on FSA/HSA reimbursement, helping to lower your out-of-pocket costs. Exploring patient assistance programs and price comparisons can yield additional savings, which is important since prescription plans rarely cover GLP-1s solely for weight loss.
Can I get certified telehealth weight-loss support and prescriptions?
Absolutely. Shed connects you with board-certified physicians and registered dietitians for virtual consults and medication management. Health Coaching support is also available, providing the expertise you need to achieve lasting weight-loss results from home.
What are the advantages of using HSA or FSA funds for weight-loss medications?
By using HSA or FSA funds for eligible weight loss programs or prescriptions through Shed, you reduce costs with untaxed income, maximize your health benefits, and access exclusive discounts. Make sure you have a doctor’s letter of medical necessity, and contact your health plan administrator to clarify eligibility.
Is it better to get an online prescription for semaglutide or similar GLP-1 medications?
Getting a virtual prescription for GLP-1sthrough Shed offers convenience, expedited access, and comprehensive telehealth support. Your medication is shipped directly to your door, and ongoing care is managed via telemedicine, making it ideal for busy lifestyles. Recent clinical trials show GLP-1s are truly effective when managed by healthcare professionals.
Are there e-commerce options for insurance or HSA-compliant weight-loss purchases?
Shed’s partnership with Health-E Commerce and platforms like FSA Store and HSA Store means you can now confidently buy weight management products, virtual provider visits, medications, and health coaching online while utilizing insurance or HSA/FSA funds when eligible.
