Medicare to Cover GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs Like Ozempic for First Time
Washington Post—Medicare will begin covering GLP-1 obesity drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy for qualifying patients, marking the first time the federal program has paid for weight-loss medications in its history. The expansion will open access to millions of seniors who previously could not afford the drugs, which can cost over $1,000 per month without coverage. Patients will need to meet eligibility criteria tied to obesity or related conditions to qualify under the new program. The change represents a major policy shift as GLP-1 drugs have become the fastest-selling class of medications in the world.
- Washington Post — Medicare is set to begin covering GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, expanding access to millions of seniors.
- Google News Top — This marks the first time Medicare has ever covered obesity drugs in the program's history.
- CBS News — US — Patients must meet specific eligibility criteria tied to obesity or related health conditions to qualify.
- NBC News — Health — Medicare announces it will cover GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic for qualifying patients
- CNBC — Medicare will start covering obesity drugs for the first time. Here's what patients should know