Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for Weight Loss

Information for patients

You may have seen recent media reports stating that GPs can now prescribe weight-loss injections like Mounjaro. While this is true nationally, in our area (Suffolk and North East Essex), GPs are not commissioned to provide these medications directly for weight loss.

Instead, the local NHS has chosen a Community Outreach service model. This means:

• Access is only available through a specialist NHS weight management service (WMCOS). This is not currently operating at present.
• Patients must be clinically assessed to determine eligibility.
• Only those meeting strict NHS criteria (including certain BMI and health conditions) will be offered treatment.
• Please do not book a GP appointment just to request Mounjaro.
• Your GP will not be able to prescribe it outside of the community specialist pathway.

For more details, visit the official NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB webpage.

Please direct any complaints regarding this to here.

Clarification on NHS Access to Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

We are aware that recent media coverage has reported the availability of Mounjaro through the NHS.

However, it is essential to understand that access is strictly limited and not available for general or cosmetic weight loss purposes.

You may be eligible only if you meet all of the following criteria:

• Aged 18 years or older
• Body Mass Index (BM!) of 40+, or 37.5+ if you are from a Black, Asian or other minority ethnic background
• Diagnosed with four or more weight-related health conditions, such as:
  • Type II Diabetes
  • High Blood Presssure (Hypertension)
  • Heart Disease
  • Sleep Apnoea, or similar conditions

Help Us Prioritise Medical Need

Do not use online request forms or telephone lines to request weight-loss medication unless you meet the full criteria.

Published: Jun 23, 2025