Some people with Medicare in Central New York may soon have a new way to get popular weight-loss medicines like Wegovy and Zepbound.
Starting July 1, 2026, Medicare will begin a special program to help certain people pay for these medications.
Medicare Usually Doesn't Pay for Weight-Loss Drugs
Right now, Medicare drug plans do not cover medicines used only for weight loss.
That means many people have had to pay a lot of money out of pocket for drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound.
The new program is meant to help.
What Is the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program?
The new program is called the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program.
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It will run from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027.
The program is separate from regular Medicare drug coverage. Medicare will handle approvals and payments through a special system.
Which Medicines Are Included?
Three weight-loss drugs will be covered:
- Wegovy
- Zepbound
- Foundayo
Who Can Get the Medicines?
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have Medicare drug coverage.
- Get approval from the Bridge Program.
- Meet certain weight and health requirements.
People with obesity and health problems like high blood pressure, kidney disease, prediabetes or heart disease may qualify.
How Much Will It Cost?
People in the program will pay $50 a month for their medicine.
That cost stays the same each month.
What Does This Mean for Central New York?
Many people in Oneida, Herkimer and Madison counties have struggled to afford these medicines.
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The new program could help some Medicare patients get access to drugs that were once too expensive.
Anyone interested should talk with their doctor to see if the medications are right for them.
The Program Won't Last Forever
Right now, the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program is set to end on December 31, 2027.
For now, it is the only way many Medicare patients can get help paying for weight-loss drugs.
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