G-BA begins developing a DMP obesity

20.08.2021 12:43

The Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) is starting detailed work on the structured treatment program (DMP) for obesity. He commissioned the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) to research and evaluate the medical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of obesity (morbid overweight). The results of the independent institute are needed by the G-BA in order to determine scientifically based requirements for the planned DMP.

The treatment program aims to combine various therapeutic approaches to provide the best possible care: the aim is to treat patients with obesity in accordance with guidelines and to support them in dealing with the disease. The G-BA will decide on the detailed requirements for the DMP Obesity by July 31, 2023.

“The development of a DMP obesity is rightly expected to improve the current care offerings for patients. Within a year, we will receive important information from IQWiG on diagnosing obesity, distinguishing between degrees of severity and current treatment recommendations - including an assessment of how well-founded the findings already are. On this basis, the G-BA will then advise which exact therapeutic and supportive measures should be anchored in a DMP. This also includes quality-assured training courses for DMP participants. It is essential for individual treatment success to know about the disease and the relevant influencing factors - such as diet, exercise, sleep disorders and stress. The DMP is also intended to help support age-specific health-promoting behavior. It is also about having a positive influence on the course of the disease and avoiding unnecessary complications and secondary illnesses. This is what the coordinated and guideline-based approach in such a program is aimed at,” explained Karin Maag, impartial member of the G-BA and chairwoman of the DMP subcommittee.

The IQWiG results for the adult age group will be available to the G-BA by August 31, 2022, and the results for children and young people by October 31, 2022.