A New Option for Eligible Medicare Beneficiaries Weight loss medications have received a lot of attention in recent years, and many Medicare beneficiaries have questions about whether these medications may be covered. Beginning July 1, 2026, a new option called the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program may provide eligible Medicare beneficiaries access to certain GLP-1 weight loss medications for $50 per month. As with any Medicare program, there are specific eligibility requirements, and it’s important to understand how this program works before assuming you qualify. What Is the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program? The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program is designed to provide access to certain GLP-1 medications for Medicare beneficiaries who meet specific requirements. The program covers three prescription medications: Foundayo® (tablet) Wegovy® (injection or tablet) Zepbound® KwikPen® (injection only — single-dose pens and vials are not covered) Eligible participants pay $50 per month for a one-month supply, regardless of income level. This monthly cost does not count toward a Medicare drug plan deductible or yearly out-of-pocket limit. Who May Qualify? To be eligible for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program, Medicare beneficiaries must meet all four requirements: 1. You Must Have Medicare Part D Coverage You must have prescription drug coverage through either: A stand-alone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D), or A Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage 2. You Cannot Already Qualify for GLP-1 Coverage Through Your Medicare Drug Plan If your current Medicare drug plan already covers a GLP-1 medication option for you, you should contact your plan directly to understand your coverage options. 3. Certain Health Conditions May Affect Eligibility You may not qualify for the Bridge Program if you have: Type 2 diabetes Moderate-to-severe sleep apnea Fibrosis However, individuals with these conditions should check with their Medicare drug plan, as they may already have access to GLP-1 medication coverage through their existing benefits. 4. You Must Meet Age and BMI Requirements You must be at least 18 years old and meet one of the following: BMI of 35 or higher BMI of 30 or higher with certain health conditions, such as certain types of heart failure, difficult-to-control high blood pressure, or chronic kidney disease (stage 3a or above) BMI of 27 or higher with certain conditions, such as prediabetes or a history of heart attack, stroke, or blocked arteries in the legs or arms If you are unsure of your BMI, your healthcare provider can help determine this number based on your height and weight. How Do You Get Started? If you think you may qualify, the first step is to talk with your doctor. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether a GLP-1 medication is appropriate for you and whether you meet the program requirements. You may also reach out to 1-800-MEDICARE or visit Medicare GLP-1 Bridge website. Once you are approved, you can move forward with obtaining your prescription through the program. Questions About Medicare Coverage? Medicare rules, prescription coverage, and plan benefits can be confusing — especially when new programs become available. Understanding your Medicare coverage is an important part of making sure you have access to the benefits you need. At Senior Insurance Advisors , my goal is to help Medicare beneficiaries understand their options and make informed decisions about their coverage. Whether you have questions about Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement plans, Prescription Drug Plans, or new Medicare programs like the GLP-1 Bridge Program, I’m here to help provide guidance and education.  Have questions? Reach out today — I’d be happy to help you navigate your Medicare options.