CMS has announced a new, time-limited program called the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge. Beginning July 1, 2026, some Medicare beneficiaries may be able to access certain GLP-1 medications for $50 per month, and CMS says the program is expected to run through December 31, 2027.
Which medications are included?
CMS’ beneficiary guidance indicates that starting July 1, 2026, the program will include Foundayo®, Wegovy®, and the Zepbound® KwikPen® formulation (and CMS notes this list may change over time).
How do you get access?
CMS says beneficiaries do not need to register or opt in, and most people do not need to do anything right now.
To access GLP-1 medications through the program, CMS indicates your doctor (medical provider) will need to submit a prior authorization request and a prescription for a use covered under the demonstration—and CMS notes that prior authorization requests will not be accepted or processed before July 1, 2026.
A few important details to know
- CMS describes this as a demonstration intended to provide access at a predictable cost—$50 for a monthly supply for eligible beneficiaries.
- CMS also states that GLP-1 drugs provided through the Bridge are covered outside the normal Part D payment process. That means the $50 copay does not count toward your Part D out-of-pocket totals (TrOOP), and low-income cost-sharing subsidies do not apply to the $50 copay.
What you can do now
CMS recommends that beneficiaries talk with their doctor about whether a GLP-1 medication is right for them, and notes it will share additional information as the program begins. If you have questions about how this may relate to your Medicare drug coverage, reach out to your Medicare advisor and we can help you understand what to expect as CMS releases more details.