Medicare will soon cover obesity drugs, but many seniors may not know

Key Points:

• Starting July 1, Medicare beneficiaries can access obesity drugs through the new Bridge demonstration program for a $50 monthly copay, marking a significant expansion in coverage for these treatments.
• Despite this milestone, a survey shows 82% of older Americans are unaware of the new Medicare coverage for obesity drugs, highlighting a major gap in public awareness.
• The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and drug manufacturers have focused outreach efforts on healthcare providers and pharmacists rather than the general public, aiming to prepare the healthcare system before broad public promotion.
• Enrollment in the Bridge program requires meeting eligibility criteria, obtaining a prescription, and prior authorization, with coverage limited to those enrolled in Medicare Part D but administered directly by CMS.
• Experts caution that the limited public outreach and the need for prior authorization may delay some eligible beneficiaries from promptly accessing the new obesity drug treatments.