June 17, 2026
Understand the prescribing and prior authorization requirements for eligible Medicare Part D patients
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program, a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) demonstration program, provides access to certain GLP-1 medications for eligible Medicare Part D patients using these medications for weight management. The program is available from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027.
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program is separate from Medicare Part D coverage and is available only for weight management. CMS will use a central processor to handle prior authorization, claims adjudication and pharmacy payment. Medicare Advantage plans are not involved in the administration of this demonstration program.
Who may be eligible
Medicare Part D patients may be eligible if they:
- Meet CMS clinical eligibility criteria.
- Are prescribed an eligible GLP-1 medication for weight management.
- Do not have a Medicare Part D-covered indication for the medication.
Patients receiving GLP-1 medications through Medicare Part D for another medically accepted indication are not eligible for the program.
Eligible medications
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program currently includes:
- Wegovy® (all formulations)
- Foundayo® (all formulations)
- Zepbound® (KwikPen only)
What providers need to do
- Identify patients who may meet CMS eligibility criteria.
- Submit the prescription through the standard prescribing process and include:
- Obesity diagnosis code E66.
- The notation "SEND TO BRIDGE FOR WEIGHT MANAGEMENT."
- Complete prior authorization requirements when requested. If an electronic prior authorization or fax request is not received within 72 hours, submit the CMS GLP-1 Bridge prior authorization form, available on the CMS Medicare GLP-1 Bridge provider resource page, to the CMS-designated processor.
Need help? Contact us
For program details, visit the CMS Medicare GLP-1 Bridge provider resource page at https://go.cms.gov/4p9Sraj. You can also download Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Information for Prescribers at https://go.cms.gov/4gtP0sC.
For all other questions, contact 866-999-3945.
This information applies to Physicians and Practitioners and Independent Practice Associations (IPAs).
