June 2026
Summer is a great time to enjoy a little slower pace, time with family and friends, and the things you enjoy most. It is also a good time to share a few Medicare headlines and upcoming dates to keep on your radar.
Medicare Expands Access to Certain Weight-Loss Medications
If you’ve been interested in newer weight-loss medications such as Wegovy or Zepbound, good news!Medicare is launching a new pilot program that may help.
Beginning July 1, 2026, eligible Medicare beneficiaries may be able to access certain weight-loss medications for approximately $50 per month through the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program, which runs through December 31, 2027.
To qualify, you must have Medicare drug coverage, meet Medicare’s medical criteria for weight management treatment, and receive approval from your healthcare provider. Not everyone will be eligible.
Important to Know
- If your GLP-1 medication is currently covered by your Medicare Part D for another medical condition—you are not eligible for the Bridge Program. You should continue obtaining the medication through your plan.
- This program operates separately from your current Part D coverage. The $50/month copay does NOT count toward your Part D deductible or annual out-of-pocket limit.
Interested? Start With Your Doctor—Not Your Insurance Plan
If you are interested in learning whether you may qualify, talk directly with your doctor. Your doctor will evaluate whether you meet the medical requirements and submit the required authorization.
Do NOT call your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan
to enroll in this program.
Looking Ahead: 2027 Part D Cost-Sharing Limits
Medicare has announced two important Part D cost-sharing limits for 2027:
- $700 maximum annual deductible
- $2,400 annual maximum out-of-pocket cost for covered Part D prescription drugs
Your actual costs will still depend on your specific plan, prescriptions, pharmacy, and whether you receive Extra Help. We will review 2027 plan details with you during the Annual Enrollment Period.
Watch for Annual Enrollment Information in September
In September, watch your mail and email for important information about the upcoming 2027 Annual Enrollment Period.
- Your plan’s Annual Notice of Change – Outlining changes to premiums, drug coverage, copays, provider networks, and benefits for 2027.
- Information and action items from Key2Medicare Insurance to help prepare for your annual review.
Please review these communications carefully. The Annual Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7, and it is the time to make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug coverage for the following year.
Questions about your Medicare coverage? We’re here to help!
Jenell Sobas, FPQP®
Agency Owner | Key2Medicare Insurance
[email protected] | 303-484-1763
key2medicare.com