Walgreens will begin supporting eligible Medicare beneficiaries through the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program at about 8,000 pharmacies when the initiative launches July 1.
More than 56 million patients in the Medicare network may be eligible for the program, according to a June 25 news release. Walgreens pharmacists will help patients navigate eligibility requirements, answer questions about participating medications and provide ongoing support during treatment. Free delivery will be available in most states for select oral GLP-1 tablets, as well.
Walgreens joins CVS Health, Walmart and Sam’s Club in supporting the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program. CVS said it will offer expanded pharmacist support, a $49 MinuteClinic virtual weight management visit and a $50 monthly copay option for eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Walmart and Sam’s Club said they will provide pharmacist consultations and educational resources through nearly 5,000 pharmacy locations.
The Bridge runs through December 2027 after CMS extended the program following insufficient participation in the longer-term Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth (BALANCE) model, which was designed to move GLP-1 obesity coverage into Medicare Part D permanently.
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