On July 1, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) launched the Medicare Bridge Program. The Bridge Program is a short-term demonstration project which provides eligible Medicare beneficiaries with access to certain GLP-1 medications for obesity for a $50 co-pay. To qualify for the program, Medicare beneficiaries must meet certain clinical criteria, and the provider must submit a prior authorization request attesting that the beneficiary has met these criteria. More information about the Bridge Program, including the clinical criteria, information on submitting a prior authorization request, and an FAQ for providers, can be found at these links below:
The Endocrine Society has urged Congress and the Administration to expand access to GLP-1 medications for people living with obesity, and we are pleased that CMS is initiating this program. We will continue to provide additional information as the Bridge Program is implemented.
The Endocrine Society's new Center on Obesity brings together trusted research, clinical guidelines, educational materials, and advocacy resources to advance obesity treatment and science.
