Starting in July 2026, the Medicare program will launch a pilot program that will allow certain beneficiaries to purchase medications GLP-1 for a copayment of $50 dollars per month. This program, called Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, will be available until December 2027.

To access, beneficiaries must be enrolled in a Medicare prescription drug plan Part D or in a Medicare plan Advantage with drug coverage. In addition, they must meet specific clinical criteria related to weight loss.

This program will cover GLP-1 medications in pills and injectables.

Cost Comparison

Although the $50 copayment is higher than that of private insurers, which generally is $25 dollars or less, no deductible will be required. Currently, the cost of these medications varies, starting at approximately$149 dollars without insurance.

Medicare Director Chris Klomp noted that these medications can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with obesity.

The implementation of the program seeks to simplify and standardize access, increasing the efficiency of the health system.

Notably, Medicare did not cover medications to treat obesity or weight loss.

Medicare Part D

Medicare Part D is an optional coverage plan for prescription drugs. Helps pay for brand-name and generic drugs that They do not cover Parts A or B, such as treatments for chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension), antibiotics or specific vaccines.

Primary coverage. Offered through Medicare-approved private insurers and complements Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or Medicare Advantage plans(Part C). Cad a plan has a formulary (list of covered drugs) that is updated annually and includes mandatory categories such as anticancers, antidepressants,and immunosuppressants.

Cost structure. Includes phases such as deductible (up to $590 dollars in 2025 for standard plans), initial copayments and, eventually e,catastrophic coverage. There are fines for late enrollment if you don't join during the open period (October 15th to December 7th).

Eligibility. It is available to people with Medicare Part A or B, even without a current need for medications, to avoid future penalties. Programs such as Extra Help reduce costs for low income.

Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage, also known as Medicare Part C, is an alternative offered by Medicare-approved private companies that combines coverage from Parts A (hospital) and B (medical) of Medicare in one plan.

Coverage principal

Additional benefits

Differences with original Medicare

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