Medical Expenses - Prescribed Weight Loss Drugs

[Guest jes]

Would prescribed weight loss drugs be a reimbursable expense under a cafeteria plan? Thanks.

[Guest victoria davis]

Rulings under the provisions of Code Section 213 indicate that weight loss programs will be deductible if the weight loss is prescribed to improve a specific medical condition, such as high blood pressure, but not if the weight loss is merely to improve appearance or for general well being. Generally, weight loss drugs would meet the requirements for people who are morbidly obese. But weight loss drugs for someone who wants to lose 20 or 30 pounds would generally not qualify.

[Guest victoria davis]

Rulings under the provisions of Code Section 213 (which apply for cafeteria plan purposes) indicate that weight loss programs will be deductible if the weight loss is prescribed to improve a specific medical condition, such as high blood pressure, but not if the weight loss is merely to improve appearance or for general well being. Generally, weight loss drugs would meet the requirements for people who are morbidly obese. But weight loss drugs for someone who wants to lose 20 or 30 pounds would generally not qualify.

[Guest jes]

What types of rulings are you referring to? Do you have any cites for the rule that prescribed weight loss drugs are reimbursable if for a specific medical purpose?