The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge is a short-term pilot program announced by CMS that will provide eligible Medicare Part D beneficiaries with access to certain GLP-1 drugs between July 1, 2026, and December 31, 2027. The patient cost is reported at $50 for a monthly supply.
 
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge will operate outside of the Medicare Part D benefit’s coverage and payment flow. Part D sponsors will not carry risk for eligible GLP-1 drugs furnished under the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, and Part D sponsors do not have to opt in to the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge for eligible beneficiaries to access these drugs beginning July 1, 2026. In 2026, CMS will use a single central processor to manage prior authorization, claims adjudication, and payment to pharmacies for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge.

“GLP-1s can be life-changing for patients managing obesity and related conditions,” Chris Klomp, Director of Medicare and Chief Counselor at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, said. “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 program’s structure allows CMS to expand access while working closely with prescribers, pharmacies, and other partners to support patients. 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. 

To learn more about the program, access the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services landing page.