OBJECTIVES:  American patient consumers spend in excess of $1B annually on drugs to treat Arthritis.  Osteoarthritis is a condition that can lead to Rheumatoid Arthritis. This study looks at how public and private payers in the United States might cover the use of Chondroitin Sulfate with Glucosamine for treating Osteoarthritis. METHODS:  Published coverage policies for products used to treat Osteoarthritis (OA) were gathered and analysed, along with primary data developed through payer interviews.  Interviewees selected included pharmacy directors at private payers and those who administered Medicare Part D plans (N=3). RESULTS: Findings show that payers would provide coverage of chondroitin sulfate with glucosamine for Osteoarthritis if: a) The cost were less than $100/month; b) The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) provides coverage; c) Data demonstrated improved outcomes over treatments like omega-3-acid ethyl esters and niacin tablet, film-coated extended-release. Payers also indicated that they would afford chondroitin sulfate with glucosamine with Tier 2 formulary status, similar to that of omega-3-acid ethyl esters and niacin tablet, film-coated extended-release. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our research, we believe US Medicare Part D plans and private payers would cover chondroitin sulfate and chondroitin sulfate with glucosamine products provided there is clinical data demonstrating its efficacy in OA patients, and assuming that CMS would approve this product as an exception to its coverage policy for nutritional supplements. All payers expressed that currently there are limited or no treatment options for OA patients, implying that a product that shows some statistically significant benefit will be covered and reimbursed by them. If clinical data shows efficacy in some or all OA patients, we believe the market could provide for a significant price premium as compared to current OTC products.