Affordable GLP-1s Could Benefit 14 Million Medicare Recipients

A new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge pilot program will allow about 14 million Medicare Part D recipients to access certain GLP-1 weight loss medications for $50 per month from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027. The program lifts previous Medicare restrictions on weight loss drug coverage but excludes some forms and has limitations, including a time cap and costs not counting toward deductibles or out-of-pocket limits. GLP-1 drugs aid weight loss by suppressing appetite and managing blood sugar, but lifestyle changes remain essential.