US EditionMedicare, Medicaid plans to experiment with covering weight loss drugs: Report
UNITED STATES, AUG 1 – Medicare and Medicaid may begin voluntary coverage of GLP-1 weight loss drugs to improve access amid high costs, with 13 states already covering them, officials say.
- The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid proposed that Medicaid and Medicare Part D plans could soon choose to cover GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, starting in April 2026 for Medicaid and January 2027 for Medicare.
- In recent years, a 2024 Kaiser Family Foundation survey found that more than half of adults said the cost made it difficult to afford, as millions of Americans used GLP-1 medications for weight loss at prices up to $1,200.
- Projected at $35 billion from 2026 to 2034, experts from the Kaiser Family Foundation argue Medicare coverage could benchmark private insurance companies and lead to savings.
- Amid internal policy debates, thirteen state Medicaid programs have already chosen to cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, while the Trump administration may be divided on expanding coverage.
- A spokesperson said all drug coverages undergo a cost-benefit review, and Novo Nordisk told the Post they believe comprehensive coverage is critical to affordable health care.
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Weight Loss Drugs May Soon Fall Under Medicare/Medicaid
The Trump administration is preparing a five-year test that could allow some Medicare and Medicaid patients to access high-profile weight loss drugs, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. The plan, which would let state Medicaid programs and Medicare Part D insurers choose to cover these drugs for obesity treatment, represents...
·Miami, United States
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Total News Sources20
Leaning Left5Leaning Right1Center7Last UpdatedBias Distribution54% Center
Bias Distribution
- 54% of the sources are Center
54% Center
L 38%
C 54%
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