New NHS Access to Weight‑Loss Injections
The NHS recently decided to allow GPs to prescribe Mounjaro outside specialist clinics.
As a result of this decision, it’s estimated that around 220,000 patients with severe obesity (BMI > 40 and multiple weight-related conditions) will have access to Mounjaro weight-loss injections via their GP over the next three years.
Why this matters
Until now, these GLP‑1 injections - such as Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic - were largely confined to specialist settings or private prescriptions. Allowing community GPs to prescribe them represents a meaningful shift in obesity care, but it’s not a cure-all. However, the rollout is phased and tightly controlled - initially limited to those with the highest clinical need - so demand will likely far outstrip supply for the foreseeable future.
What patients need to know
Eligibility is strict
Only patients with a BMI over 40 (or 37.5+ for some ethnic groups) and at least four related health issues - like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or obstructive sleep apnoea - qualify for NHS prescribing right now
It comes with “wraparound care”
NICE and NHS England mandate that patients receive multidisciplinary support, including nutritional and behavioural guidance - not just a prescription .
Private options still exist
Demand is soaring - an estimated 1.5 million people already use weight‑loss injectables in the UK. Many continue to take them privately, but this comes with higher costs, less oversight, and fewer safeguards.
How our approach is different
At The Hove Practice, we've been offering medically supervised weight‑loss services - including Wegovy, Mounjaro, nutrition coaching, and physiotherapy support - with a fully integrated, evidence-based approach. Crucially, our eligibility criteria starts at a lower BMI than the NHS of >30 (or > 27 with weight-related health conditions). Here’s how we approach it:
Comprehensive assessments: our patients receive a GP-led review, plus nutritional and physical activity planning.
Shared-care model: we can collaborate with specialists and physiotherapists, to provide holistic and sustainable care.
Close monitoring: we continuously review progress [at 3, 6 and 9 months] with blood tests and symptom checks.
Customised care: we carefully manage dosage adjustments to ensure both effectiveness and safety.
Medication isn’t a magic bullet
Dr Simon Glew at The Hove Practice stresses the importance that these injections shouldn't be seen as a quick fix or magic bullet. Without lifestyle changes and a good support system, weight will return once medication stops. Long‑term success depends on multiple factors - including ongoing lifestyle support.
Is a weight-loss injection right for you
These treatments can be life-changing - but they’re not right for everyone. A typical candidate through the NHS path is someone with serious obesity, multiple health issues and a commitment to making lifestyle changes alongside medication.
At The Hove Practice, we see people at different stages on their weight loss journey - whether for maintenance, prevention, or health optimisation. If you're curious about whether this treatment is suitable for you, we’d start with a confidential consultation so that together we can:
Review your health history and BMI
Discuss eligibility and suitability
Explore your goals and the level of commitment needed
Explain costs, risks and ongoing care requirements
What’s next
For eligible NHS patients, this is a promising new option but supply and GP capacity remain limited. It’s important to know you can still access the same medications and wraparound care privately, with clear oversight and expert guidance.
If you’re interested in learning more, we’d love to help you understand your choices - NHS or private - and support you in making an informed decision.
Or - if you’re already taking weight loss medication - we can perform a ‘safety check’ consult, including blood tests, to ensure it’s both suiting you and having the desired effect.
Call our Reception Team on 01273 733830
Email us at reception@thehovepractice.co.uk
Pop in and see us: 86 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2EB
Or book online using the Weight loss support services initial consult appointment type
You can also find more information about our weight loss services on our dedicated Weight Loss webpage.