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Medicare launches pilot program expanding access to GLP-1 drugs
NewsNation • • health
Key Points:
- Medicare is launching the "GLP-1 Bridge Program" next month to expand access to select GLP-1 weight loss drugs for eligible Part D enrollees, marking a shift from previous restrictions on covering weight loss medications.
- The demonstration program, running through December 31, 2027, will cover GLP-1 drugs including Wegovy, Zepbound, and Foundayo.
- Eligibility criteria include being 18 or older with a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 30 or higher with certain health conditions like heart failure or chronic kidney disease; those with a BMI of 27 or higher may qualify if at risk of prediabetes, heart attack, or peripheral artery disease.
- A centralized system will manage approvals, claims, and pharmacy payments, with eligible patients paying a fixed monthly copayment of $50 for these medications.
