Millions of Medicare beneficiaries will gain access to obesity drugs for the first time starting Wednesday under CMS’ temporary Bridge program, a federal initiative designed to expand GLP-1 obesity

Medicare Part D is introducing important prescription drug cost updates in 2026, including higher deductibles, a new out-of-pocket cap, and expanded savings on selected medications that could significantly affect beneficiaries' healthcare budgets.

CMS says the 18-month demonstration will expand access to select weight-loss drugs while the agency gathers data on uptake, outcomes and program operations.

Every fall, roughly 65 million Medicare beneficiaries enter an enrollment window that presents a simple coverage menu. Original Medicare with a Medigap supplement, or a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles everything together.

Here’s how to avoid the penalty.

A 66-year-old retires in early 2024, drops his employer plan, and signs up for COBRA to keep his old network for 18 months. He enrolls in Medicare Part B in mid-2026, two years after his group coverage ended.