The Department of Health has approved the first regional obesity management service in Northern Ireland, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced. The decision follows a public consultation on the urgent need to tackle rising obesity levels with structured medical and community-based support.
Currently, patients in Northern Ireland do not have access to specialist obesity services, including innovative weight loss medications such as injections, which are available in other parts of the UK. The new service aims to bridge that gap with a phased rollout beginning in 2026.
Comprehensive Weight Management Support
In its first phase, the programme will offer a community-based model where eligible patients can receive lifestyle guidance, behavioural support, and—if deemed clinically appropriate—access to weight loss medications approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
The Department of Health (DoH) said the initiative will provide safe, effective, and evidence-based obesity treatment. “The service will support access to weight loss medication in line with NICE guidance,” the department confirmed.
Phased and Safe Implementation
To ensure the safety and efficacy of treatment, the rollout will occur in carefully planned phases. This approach is designed to allow for proper monitoring of patient outcomes and adherence to best practices in obesity care.
The health department emphasised that this service marks a significant step forward in the region’s fight against obesity and is aligned with broader UK efforts to integrate modern medical treatments into public health strategies.
