The program, which runs through the end of 2027, marks a shift for Medicare patients who previously faced coverage limitations for weight-loss drugs. Novo Nordisk positions the move as a critical step for seniors, particularly noting that Wegovy remains the only weight management treatment clinically proven to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events—including stroke, heart attack, and cardiovascular death—in patients with known heart disease and obesity.
Medicare beneficiaries gain new access to Wegovy for obesity treatment
Starting today, Medicare beneficiaries living with obesity can access Wegovy injections and pills through the newly launched Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program. The initiative allows eligible older adults to secure the FDA-approved weight management medication for a $50 monthly copay, addressing long-standing barriers to care for this demographic.
To participate in the program, patients must consult their healthcare providers to determine eligibility and initiate the prior authorization process through CMS. Once approved, the $50 copay applies to a one-month supply, with refills processed without requiring repeated prior authorizations. Joe Nadglowski, President and CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition, described the Bridge as a significant milestone, though he emphasized that it should serve as a catalyst for establishing permanent, comprehensive obesity care pathways within Medicare and private insurance markets. Novo Nordisk continues to support the rollout through its dedicated support team, aiming to streamline navigation for patients and pharmacists nationwide.
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