CMS Launches Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, Expanding Access to GLP-1 Medications

CMS Launches Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, Expanding Access to GLP-1 Medications

Eligible Medicare beneficiaries may now get certain GLP-1 medications for $50 per month through the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, a new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) initiative designed to expand access to innovative treatments and test the impacts of increased access to GLP-1 drugs for weight management on the Medicare program.

Through the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, eligible individuals enrolled in Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage can obtain certain GLP-1 medications to lose weight or maintain weight reduction at a predictable and affordable cost of $50 per month. The initiative will remain available through December 31, 2027, and reflects CMS' continued focus on improving access to innovative treatments that support better long-term health outcomes.

"For too long, many Americans have been unable to access these treatments because of cost," said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. "The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge creates a new pathway for eligible beneficiaries to afford GLP-1 medications. If you think a GLP-1 medication may be right for you, talk with your doctor and learn whether you qualify."

Medicare beneficiaries interested in learning whether they qualify for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge should visit Medicare.gov/glp1bridge and talk with their doctor about whether a GLP-1 medication may be right for them.

Not all Medicare beneficiaries will qualify for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, including individuals who already receive GLP-1 medications through their existing Medicare prescription drug coverage or are eligible for GLP-1 coverage through the Medicare Part D benefit.

CMS also has released resources for prescribers and pharmacies to support Medicare GLP-1 Bridge implementation. These materials, along with eligibility information and details about the initiative, are available at https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coverage/prescription-drug-coverage/medicare-glp-1-bridge .

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge builds on CMS' broader efforts to improve access to innovative therapies and support healthier outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries.

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