Northern Ireland Introduces First Obesity Management Service: A Landmark Move

The health minister has greenlit Northern Ireland’s initial regional service dedicated to managing obesity.

Following a public consultation conducted by the Department of Health (DOH) regarding the suggested implementation of such a service, Mike Nesbitt made his statement.

At present, patients receiving healthcare services in Northern Ireland lack access to specialized weight management programs.

The initial stage, set to start in 2026, aims at establishing a community-driven service offering patients access to lifestyle guidance along with obesity medications when medically justified.

The department stated: "This service will facilitate access to weight-loss medications in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence."

The deployment will be meticulously carried out in phases to guarantee that the treatment is delivered safely and effectively.