Medicare to Cover GLP-1 Drugs for Weight Loss Starting July 1. Here's What to Know.

TL;DR

Medicare is launching the 'Medicare GLP-1 Bridge' pilot program on July 1, 2026, providing access to GLP-1 weight-loss drugs.
The program offers a $50 monthly copay for eligible Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Part D with eligible plans.
This is the first time Medicare is covering GLP-1s prescribed solely for obesity, not just for diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
To qualify, patients need prior authorization and must meet specific BMI and health condition criteria.
The pilot program is temporary, running from July 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, with an uncertain future thereafter.
Copays do not count towards deductibles or out-of-pocket caps, and discounts are not permitted.

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