Millions of Medicare beneficiaries could soon pay significantly less for popular GLP-1 weight loss medications under a new pilot program launching Wednesday.
For the first time in the program’s history, Medicare will provide coverage for weight loss drugs through a temporary initiative aimed at making the medications more affordable for eligible seniors.
The pilot program follows an agreement announced by President Donald Trump and his administration with drugmakers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to reduce the cost of GLP-1 medications.
Without insurance, many of these medications can cost hundreds of dollars each month. Under the new program, qualifying Medicare recipients could pay as little as $50 per month.
Who qualifies?
Not all Medicare beneficiaries are eligible for the new coverage.
To qualify, participants must:
- Be enrolled in Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.
- Meet certain health requirements related to obesity and chronic medical conditions.
Eligible individuals include:
- Those with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or
- Those with a BMI of 30 or higher who also have at least one qualifying medical condition, including:
- High blood pressure
- Prediabetes
- A previous heart attack or stroke
- Blocked arteries
- Chronic kidney disease
- Heart failure
The pilot marks the first time Medicare has covered medications prescribed specifically for weight loss.
Supporters say the move could save eligible seniors hundreds of dollars each month and thousands of dollars annually while expanding access to medications that have become increasingly popular for treating obesity.
Officials say the temporary program begins Wednesday. Seniors interested in participating should check with their Medicare Part D plan and healthcare provider to determine whether they meet the eligibility requirements.