Research by digital weight loss platform Juniper found only eight out of 42 ICBs currently offer the treatment with over half (55%) rolling it out through GPs on a delayed, pending or phased basis.

Kevin Joshua, clinical lead at Juniper, said: ‘Despite the NHS 10-Year Plan setting a vision for tackling obesity to be a priority, our research lays bare how primary care is struggling to meet demands and implement the roll out of Mounjaro. This is leaving a clear gap between the promise of the Mounjaro roll out through GPs and the reality for patients.'

Joshua said in areas such as Birmingham & Solihull or Greater Manchester, patients were being told they may have to wait until late 2025 before being given the drug.

Where the roll out has taken place in areas such as south west London or west Yorkshire, Joshua said it was only available to a ‘very small group of people' typically with a BMI of 40 or above and multiple weight-related health conditions.

‘To truly address the obesity crisis, we need to ensure that ICBs have the support and resources they need to help patients regardless of where they live, such as awareness of and access to private digital providers,' Joshua said.

‘Without urgent action, the postcode lottery will continue to deny millions the vital support they deserve.'

The research follows an earlier survey which showed that over 90% of healthcare professionals doubted the NHS can provide safe, ongoing care for patients on weight loss jabs.