Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program
As of July 1, 2026, eligible Medicare members may be able to receive certain GLP-1 weight-loss medications for a flat cost of $50 per month for a 30-day supply.
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge is a new, temporary program. If you have Medicare Part D, you can now get certain GLP-1 medicines to manage your weight for a flat $50 each month. The Bridge handles it on its own, separate from your regular drug plan.
GLP-1 drugs can help you manage your weight and improve your health. Medicare covers these GLP-1 drugs:
- Foundayo® (tablet)
- Wegovy® (injection or tablet)
- Zepbound® (KwikPen® only) - The program doesn’t cover single-dose Zepbound® vials or pens).
You need Medicare Part D to use the Bridge. But your drug plan is not part of it. Your plan is not contacted, does not pay, and does not approve anything.
Please note: your first pharmacy claim is turned down on purpose. That is normal. The “no” is what starts your Bridge approval. It is not a denial from your insurance.
Two more things to know about the $50. It does not count toward your Part D plan’s yearly out-of-pocket limit. And you cannot spread it into monthly payments the way you can with regular Part D drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program?
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program gives eligible Medicare members access to prescription medications for obesity. The program is managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Who is eligible?
Most people with Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) are eligible, including those enrolled in:
- A standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan
- A Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage
- A Special Needs Plan (SNP)
- A dual Medicare-Medicaid plan
Some Medicare plans are not eligible. If you're unsure whether you qualify, contact your Medicare plan or healthcare provider.
Do I need to meet any medical requirements?
Yes. Your healthcare provider must confirm that you meet the program's medical criteria based on your body mass index (BMI) and certain health conditions.
In general, you may qualify if you have:
- A BMI of 35 or higher, or
- A BMI of 30 or higher with certain conditions such as chronic kidney disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or heart failure, or
- A BMI of 27 or higher with conditions such as prediabetes, a previous heart attack or stroke, or peripheral artery disease.
Your provider can determine whether you qualify.
How do I get a prescription?
Your healthcare provider can prescribe an eligible GLP-1 medication if you meet the program requirements.
What if I take a GLP-1 medication for another medical condition?
If you use a GLP-1 medication to treat a condition such as type 2 diabetes, moderate-to-severe sleep apnea, or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), your medication will continue to be covered through your regular Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, not through the Bridge Program.
For more information on the Medicare Bridge Program, please visit obesityaction.org.
To schedule an appointment, contact Overlake Medical Weight Loss at (425) 467-3957.