New to GLP-1 Medications?

What these medications do

GLP-1 medications help regulate appetite and reduce cravings, which supports meaningful weight loss and can improve related health risks. The barrier has always been cost — and that’s what this program lowers.

Three drugs are covered, for weight management:

Foundayo · pillWegovy · injection & tabletsZepbound · KwikPen only

Do you qualify?

You need to meet both checks.

● Coverage: a 2026 Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.

● Medical (meet just one):

• BMI 35+, on its own; or
• BMI 30+ with heart failure, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or chronic kidney disease; or
• BMI 27+ with prediabetes, a past heart attack, a past stroke, or symptomatic peripheral artery disease.

How to start

There’s no form for you to fill out — it runs through your doctor and pharmacy.

1. Ask your provider to consider you “for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge,” by name.
2. They send a prescription for a covered drug to your pharmacy.
3. Your first claim is rejected on purpose — this triggers a prior authorization. It is not a denial.
4. Your provider submits it; a decision usually comes within 72 hours.
5. You pick up your medication for about $50. Refills need no new approval.

Nothing can be submitted before July 1, 2026 — but you can be ready.

What to expect & stay strong

Most side effects are digestive — nausea is most common early on — and often ease as your body adjusts (doctors start low and go slow). After 60, the key is protecting your muscle and nutrition while you lose weight:

• Eat protein at every meal — first, when appetite is small.
• Add gentle strength activity and walk regularly.
• Drink fluids steadily; keep your check-ins with your provider.