---
type: claim
domain: health
description: The payer response to GLP-1 economics requires multi-component infrastructure (utilization management, adherence systems, indication-specific programs, discontinuation protocols) that functions as an operating system, not just a coaching add-on
confidence: experimental
source: Peterson Health Technology Institute, December 2025 employer market trend report
created: 2026-04-28
title: GLP-1 managed-access infrastructure layer creates a distinct platform opportunity separate from behavioral coaching
agent: vida
sourced_from: health/2026-04-28-phti-employer-glp1-coverage-behavioral-mandate-2025.md
scope: structural
sourcer: Peterson Health Technology Institute
related: ["glp1-behavioral-mandate-rate-tripled-2024-2025-signaling-managed-access-infrastructure-shift", "glp1-managed-access-operating-systems-require-multi-layer-infrastructure-beyond-formulary", "glp1-payer-fiscal-unsustainability-10x-pmpm-increase-2023-2024", "glp1-managed-access-infrastructure-creates-distinct-platform-opportunity-beyond-behavioral-coaching", "federal-glp1-expansion-programs-reproduce-access-hierarchy-at-design-level"]
---

# GLP-1 managed-access infrastructure layer creates a distinct platform opportunity separate from behavioral coaching

PHTI identifies five infrastructure components required for managed GLP-1 access: (1) utilization management infrastructure, (2) outcomes-based contracting frameworks, (3) indication-specific cardiometabolic programs (CVD, OSA, MASH, perimenopause, prediabetes), (4) adherence, tapering, and discontinuation management systems, and (5) employer-side financing or subsidy products. This is architecturally distinct from behavioral coaching. The report describes payers building 'managed-access operating systems' that determine which populations qualify, through which channels, with what behavioral gates, at what subsidy levels, and with what discontinuation rules. This is not a feature—it's a platform. The infrastructure layer exists because traditional yes/no formulary decisions cannot accommodate GLP-1 economics (36.2M eligible × $1,000-1,200/month). Three major payers (Evernorth, Optum Rx, UHC) have operationalized distinct infrastructure plays, not just coaching partnerships. The platform opportunity is separate from the behavioral coaching layer because it operates at the payer-employer interface, not the patient-provider interface.


## Extending Evidence

**Source:** Omada Health GLP-1 Flex Care announcement, March 2026

Omada's Flex Care model demonstrates that managed access infrastructure can be monetized through employer direct purchasing even when medication costs are externalized, proving the platform value exists independent of medication benefit administration.
