Medicare Launches GLP-1 Bridge Program Offering 50 Dollar Monthly Weight Loss Drug Access
Medicare began a GLP-1 Bridge demonstration program on July 1, 2026, giving eligible Part D beneficiaries access to Wegovy and Zepbound for a fixed $50 monthly copayment. The program runs through December 2027 and operates outside standard Part D coverage. CMS manages prior authorizations and pharmacy payments through a centralized processor.
Medicare launched a GLP-1 Bridge demonstration program on July 1, 2026, giving eligible Part D beneficiaries access to specific weight-loss medications for a fixed $50 monthly copayment.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services runs the program through December 31, 2027. It covers all formulations of Wegovy and Foundayo, as well as the KwikPen formulation of Zepbound. Other Zepbound formulations are excluded.
The program operates outside standard Medicare Part D coverage. CMS uses a centralized processor to handle prior authorizations, claims adjudication, and pharmacy payments. Part D plans are not required to opt in and carry no financial risk for drugs furnished through the Bridge.
To qualify, beneficiaries must be 18 or older, enrolled in a Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage, and meet clinical criteria for weight management. Those criteria include a BMI of 35 or higher, or a BMI of 27 to 30 with conditions such as heart failure, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, pre-diabetes, or peripheral artery disease.
The $50 copayment is independent of standard Part D deductibles, out-of-pocket limits, or Extra Help assistance programs.
CMS originally announced the Bridge alongside the BALANCE model, a broader weight management initiative. In May 2026, CMS delayed the Part D portion of BALANCE indefinitely, which led to the extension of the GLP-1 Bridge through the end of 2027.
