Melbourne’s Conversion Digital offers to pay for workers’ Ozempic prescriptions
A Melbourne-based digital marketing agency has offered to pay employees to take Ozempic and another controversial weight loss drug.
Conversion Digital, which has more than 70 employees, sent its staff an email detailing its new “weight management” program.
The email states that employees will receive a monthly budget of $200 to spend on Ozempic or Wegovy.
Ozempic is a type 2 diabetes management drug that has gone viral overseas for its weight loss benefits thanks to its celebrity ambassadors, including tech billionaire Elon Musk.
However, its popularity has led to international shortages, leading the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) to limit its prescription.
Wegovy, an injectable weight loss medication, has not been approved for use in Australia.
Conversion Digital, which has more than 70 employees, sent its staff an email detailing its new “weight management” program.
Staff were told the company would foot the bill for their monthly prescriptions in Ozempic.
Conversion Digital said it was excited to “roll out new benefits options designed to help you on your personal wellness journey,” news.com.au reported.
“Today we’re focusing on ‘weight management,’ a crucial factor in promoting longevity and overall well-being,” the email reads.
“Studies indicate that maintaining a healthy weight can mitigate many health risks, increase your quality of life, and promote a longer, healthier life.”
The email states that management does not represent “health care professionals,” but wants to give employees a “proactive approach to health,” before listing links to Ozempic and Wegovy.
The company said it would notify staff if Wegovy would be approved in Australia.
“Let’s stay one step ahead. If you are interested in these products or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your health is our priority and we are here to support you on your journey,” the email said.
Conversion Digital managing director Sylvia Tiet said the company’s policy would be in line with TGA rules.
“Our intention is not to promote the product for weight loss contrary to these guidelines. Rather, our goal is to provide our staff with information about different health and wellness options,” she told the publication.
Conversion Digital chief executive Sylvia Tiet (above) said the response to the program has been “overwhelmingly positive”.
“We are in no way trying to displace or ignore medical opinion. We believe in the importance of informed decision-making in consultation with healthcare professionals.
Ms Tiet added that staff reaction to the email was “overwhelmingly positive, with no negative comments or concerns raised”.
She says two employees have already joined the program while other employees have asked if the plan is open to family members, including dogs.
The company’s head of strategy, Clayton Cross, said the idea was sparked by conversations with overseas customers who have reaped the benefits of assisted weight loss.
“We have clients overseas and they are just happy, lost weight, enjoying life, having more sex. It’s quite extraordinary,” he said.
It comes after the TGA warned of major supply issues with Ozempic.
Doctors are now advised not to prescribe this medication to any new patients.
