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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2026
Contact: CMS Media Relations
(202) 690-6145 | CMS Media Inquiries
Coming Soon: CMS to Provide $50 Monthly Access to GLP-1 Medications
for Medicare Beneficiaries
Program Begins July 2026, Expanding Affordable Access to Innovative but Costly
Treatments for Seniors
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will provide eligible Medicare beneficiaries access to certain GLP-1 medications for $50 per month beginning July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027.
Under the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, a time-limited demonstration, CMS is expanding access to innovative, evidence-based weight-loss treatments. Eligible individuals enrolled in Medicare Part D prescription drug plans will be able to access these medications at a predictable and affordable cost—$50 for a monthly supply. This approach reflects CMS’ continued focus on improving access to high-value treatments that support better long-term health outcomes.
“These treatments are a major medical advancement, but too many seniors are currently unable to access them due to high cost,” said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. “The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge changes that by making these medications more affordable and accessible, while advancing our broader goal of helping Americans live healthier lives.”
“GLP-1s can be life-changing for patients managing obesity and related conditions,” said Chris Klomp, Director of Medicare and Chief Counselor at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “This demonstration is designed to make accessing those medications simpler, more predictable, and more consistent across the Medicare program, which means better quality of life for seniors and better value across the health care system.”
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge operates under the Secretary’s authority to test new approaches to care delivery under Medicare and is supported by CMS, including centralized processes for claims adjudication and payment to pharmacies. This structure allows CMS to expand access while working closely with providers, pharmacies, and other partners to support a consistent and coordinated experience for patients.
What to know before July 1
Beginning July 1, Medicare beneficiaries with Part D coverage may be eligible to access certain GLP-1 medications at $50 for a monthly supply. Beneficiaries can talk to their doctor to determine whether a GLP-1 medication is right for them. CMS will share additional information for beneficiaries as the program begins.
In addition, CMS continues to work with stakeholders—including providers, pharmacies, and manufacturers—to support implementation and ensure all partners have the information they need ahead of launch.
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge builds on CMS’ broader efforts to improve access to innovative therapies and support healthier outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries. For additional demonstration details, visit:
https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coverage/prescription-drug-coverage/medicare-glp-1-bridge
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