What Community Pharmacists Must Know About the GLP-1 Medicare Bridge Program

Cristy Gallagher, MPAff, research project director at STOP Obesity Alliance, discusses the upcoming launch of a Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program, expected to start in July, with a related Medicaid program potentially beginning as early as this month. Although no states have officially signed on yet, updates on start dates are pending. Importantly, drug shortages are not anticipated. Manufacturers Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have assured advocacy leaders that they are prepared to meet increased demand stemming from expanded Medicare and Medicaid coverage. Pharmacists are encouraged to maintain referral lists for community lifestyle programs, such as YMCA-based initiatives and the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), so patients starting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) therapy can access additional support.

Gallagher highlights that pharmacists should proactively identify patients turning 65 years who are already on a GLP-1. These patients may be newly eligible for the Medicare bridge program. Pharmacists can help ensure continuity of care by informing patients about the benefit, coordinating with providers, and supporting prior authorization processes so treatment is not interrupted.

She stresses the importance of people-first language and avoiding stigmatizing terms like “obese.” Instead, phrases such as “living with obesity” are recommended, along with a compassionate, supportive tone. Because this is a new and temporary bridge program (12 to 16 months) and not traditional Part D coverage, some initial confusion and frustration are expected. Pharmacists should be prepared to reassure patients that GLP-1 medications are safe, effective, and well established, and that choosing to start therapy reflects a major, positive step in addressing their health and weight-related conditions.

“It’s really important, especially when you're talking to people who have obesity, that the pharmacists are really using people-first language and that they are talking to them without bias and stigma,” Gallagher said.