Written by Angie Carter, Health Writer for Shed
A new federal initiative could make GLP-1 medications like Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Ozempic® more accessible through Medicaid and Medicare, which could be a game-changer for the millions of Americans with obesity.
Details of the plan
According to The Washington Post, the U.S. administration is considering a five-year pilot program that would allow select Medicare Part D and state Medicaid plans to cover GLP-1 medications for weight-management purposes. Currently, Medicare only covers GLP-1s to treat type 2 diabetes, leaving millions of Americans, many on fixed incomes, without insurance coverage for some of the most effective medications for weight loss.
If approved, the pilot program is expected to start in April 2026 for Medicaid and January 2027 for Medicare. It would be conducted through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI), a division that explores new ways to improve care and lower costs.
The program would also emphasize holistic care, pairing medication with nutrition and exercise support to give patients the tools they need for long-term health—not just short-term weight loss.
Why this matters
GLP-1 medications have taken the world by a storm for their ability to curb appetite, slow digestion, and support weight-loss efforts by mimicking natural hunger-regulating hormones. And it’s not just the medical world that has noticed—the government is seeing its potential too, especially in terms of long-term improvements for people’s health, which would ultimately bring down overall health costs.
Some have expressed concerns about widespread use of GLP-1s for weight loss, emphasizing that GLP-1s shouldn’t replace a healthy diet and consistent exercise. This is why the CMMI plans to educate patients on the importance of healthy lifestyle changes, too—the program will be about more than just opening up Medicare and Medicaid coverage for GLP-1s.
What this means for patients
More than 70 million people are covered by Medicaid, the state and federal government program for low-income people, and 65 million are enrolled in Medicare, which covers people aged 65 and older and those who have disabilities. Today, only 13 state Medicaid programs cover GLP-1s for weight loss, and Medicare doesn’t cover them at all.
If implemented, this experiment could dramatically shift the landscape of obesity care in the U.S., particularly for those who haven’t been able to get coverage through private insurance. And if results show improved outcomes and cost savings, it could open the door to making long-term weight-loss treatment more viable for millions of people.
Looking ahead
The CMMI pilot may not address all concerns about cost or access, but it’s a clear sign that positive changes are coming for weight-loss care. Keep an eye on the Shed blog for the latest developments on GLP-1s, and visit tryshed.com today if you’re interested in starting your own weight-loss journey.
FAQs
When will Medicaid and Medicare start covering GLP-1s for weight loss?
If the plan is approved, voluntary coverage will begin in April 2026 for Medicaid and January 2027 for Medicare. The pilot program is expected to last five years.
Which state Medicaid programs already offer coverage for GLP-1s for weight loss?
California, Delaware, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Which GLP-1 medications are included in the pilot?
Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound®.
