CVS' Anti-Theft Measures: Worse for Business Than Shoplifting, Columnist Argues

CVS' anti-theft measures may be alienating customers and harming profits more than the theft itself, according to liberal columnist Matt Bai. The drugstore chain has experienced a rise in organized theft in recent years, prompting the implementation of barriers to protect merchandise. Bai argues that these barriers have altered his relaxing shopping experience and may be driving customers away.

CVS Caremark, a major pharmacy benefit manager, has announced significant changes to its prescription drug plans, including the exclusion of Eli Lilly's Zepbound from coverage for chronic weight management, effective July 1, 2025 [1]. This decision has sparked controversy and raised concerns among patients and healthcare providers.

Zepbound, a GLP-1 drug approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or who are overweight, will no longer be covered under CVS Caremark's most common formulary template, which represents between 25 and 30 million individuals [1]. The change is aimed at encouraging competition among drug manufacturers to lower prices and improve patient access to more affordable alternatives, such as Wegovy from Novo Nordisk [1]. However, the exclusion of Zepbound has been met with criticism from patients and healthcare professionals who argue that the medication is more effective and better tolerated than Wegovy for many individuals [1].

The trial-and-error process required to find the right medication for each patient can be disrupted by insurance coverage changes, leading to potential setbacks in weight loss progress and increased stress for patients [1]. Dr. Jody Dushay, an endocrinologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, has expressed frustration with the impact of insurance coverage changes on patient care and the time burden it places on healthcare providers [1].

Moreover, the exclusion of Zepbound from coverage may have unintended consequences for patients' mental health, as weight stigma and bias can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety [1]. Tara Eacobacci, a patient who has benefited from Zepbound, has described feeling validated by the medication and concerned about the potential impact of losing coverage on her physical and mental well-being [1].

In response to the coverage change, Eli Lilly has expanded access to Zepbound through its LillyDirect platform, offering single-dose vials at $499 per month for patients who pay out-of-pocket [1]. However, the appeals process for coverage exceptions can be time-consuming and frustrating for patients [1].

The insurance coverage changes are part of a broader trend of exclusions and restrictions on GLP-1 medications for obesity treatment, with BCBS Massachusetts planning to exclude all GLP-1s from coverage for obesity treatment in January 2026, except when indicated for type 2 diabetes [1]. This trend raises questions about the long-term sustainability of obesity treatment and the need for more data on the long-term effectiveness and value of GLP-1 medications [1].

In conclusion, CVS Caremark's decision to exclude Zepbound from coverage has sparked debate and concern among patients and healthcare providers. While the goal of encouraging competition and lowering drug prices is commendable, the impact on patient care and well-being must be carefully considered. As the obesity crisis continues to be a significant public health challenge, it is essential to ensure that patients have access to effective and affordable treatment options.

References:
[1] https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/01/health/zepbound-wegovy-insurance-cvs-bcbs-weight-loss