Pediatric endocrinologist Dr. Carlos Vargas, who has been practicing medicine for over 25 years and in New Mexico for over three years, argues that Medicaid coverage for obesity treatments could save lives and reduce unnecessary health care costs due to obesity linked to 200 medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes (T2D), heart disease, kidney disease, liver disorders, and other largely preventable illnesses. The obesity epidemic drives up medical care costs and can significantly shorten lifespans if left untreated, Vargas argues. The decision to not include funding for Medicaid coverage on obesity medications in the legislative budget session is seen as shortsighted and fiscally harmful. Vargas urges lawmakers to expand access to proven obesity treatments and interventions, which could result in long-term cost savings and significantly improved health of New Mexicans across the state.