Cardiac Risk Reduction Clinic
GLP-1 therapy to help lower your risk of heart attack and stroke
Kootenai Heart Clinics and Kootenai Health Pharmacy work together to reduce cardiac risk and simplify care for patients who may be eligible for GLP-1 therapy.
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications have demonstrated significant benefits in improving heart health, supporting weight loss, and reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack. This clinic helps patients understand their options, navigate coverage, and move through the medication approval process with added support from pharmacy and financial coordination teams.
Integrated Support
Insurance Navigation Support
Financial Assistance Options
Wondering if GLP-1 therapy is an option?
Talk with your cardiology provider to see if a referral to the Cardiac Risk Reduction Clinic is appropriate.
Is a GLP-1 Right for You?
What is GLP-1 RA Therapy?
GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) medications help regulate blood sugar and appetite and are used in some patients to support weight loss and reduce cardiovascular risk.
GLP-1 RA therapy, including Zepbound, is now FDA approved for use in adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) associated with obesity.
Who is a Candidate?
Eligibility is based on your medical history, current conditions, and treatment goals.
You may be considered if you have:
- Heart Disease + Type 2 Diabetes: If you’ve had a heart attack or stroke, GLP-1 RA therapy may help.
- Type 2 Diabetes + Metformin: Even without heart issues, GLP-1 RA therapy can provide benefits.
- Moderate to Severe Sleep Apnea: Especially when related to weight. GLP-1 RA therapy with Zepbound may help.
History of Major Heart Procedures: Such as heart surgery, stents, or a past heart attack.
Benefits and Considerations
GLP-1 therapy helps with:
- Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol
- Reducing inflammation
- Supporting better blood sugar control
- Improving heart health
- Supporting weight loss
- Reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack
Considerations:
- Not appropriate for all patients
- Side effects can vary
- Insurance coverage and approval requirements differ
- Ongoing monitoring may be needed
Why Fill Prescriptions at Kootenai Health Pharmacy
Filling your prescription through Kootenai Health Pharmacy keeps everything connected—so you don’t have to manage it on your own.
- Streamlined processes — Your clinic and pharmacy teams work together to move prescriptions, approvals, and updates forward.
- On-site financial coordination — Support with insurance, prior authorizations, and cost assistance in one place.
- Courier delivery available — Medications can be delivered directly to you for added convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What medications are included in GLP-1 therapy?
Common options include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound.
Will my insurance cover this?
Coverage varies. The clinic and pharmacy team will review your benefits and help with approvals.
Do I need heart disease to qualify?
Not always. Some patients qualify based on diabetes or sleep apnea with obesity.
How long does approval take?
Timing depends on insurance requirements and documentation, but the team helps manage the process.
What if I can’t afford the medication?
Cost depends on your insurance coverage. Our team reviews your benefits, submits prior authorizations, and helps identify financial assistance options such as discount cards, grants, and in-house assistance when available.
What medications are included in GLP-1 therapy?
Common options include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound.
Do I need heart disease to qualify?
Not always. Some patients qualify based on diabetes or sleep apnea with obesity.
What if I can’t afford the medication?
Cost depends on your insurance coverage. Our team reviews your benefits, submits prior authorizations, and helps identify financial assistance options such as discount cards, grants, and in-house assistance when available.
Will my insurance cover this?
Coverage varies. The clinic and pharmacy team will review your benefits and help with approvals.
How long does approval take?
Timing depends on insurance requirements and documentation, but the team helps manage the process.
