government
Medicare is now covering some GLP-1 weight loss drugs for $50. Here’s what to know
By Ali Swenson, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio
· July 1, 2026
· 5 min read
Popular — and expensive — GLP-1 weight loss drugs just got a lot cheaper for many older Americans. Starting Wednesday, the federal government is offering a selection of the brand name medications to certain Medicare and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries for $50 a month through a new trial called M...
Key takeaway Starting Wednesday, the federal government is offering a selection of the brand name medications to certain Medicare and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries for $50 a month through a new trial called Medicare GLP-1 Bridge.
Why this matters in Terrell Hills News
For Terrell Hills residents who rely on Medicare, the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program could bring significant relief in managing weight-related health issues. With a substantial portion of the city's population likely eligible for the program, local healthcare providers may see an influx of patients seeking to take advantage of the discounted GLP-1 medications. As the program aims to collect data on the effectiveness of these medications for weight loss, Terrell Hills' medical community will be closely watching the outcomes, which could inform future coverage decisions. The program's focus on beneficiaries with a body mass index of 35 or higher, or those with a lower BMI and accompanying health conditions, suggests that many local residents may be able to access these previously expensive medications for just $50 a month. As the program rolls out, local pharmacies and healthcare providers will play a crucial role in helping eligible residents navigate the eligibility requirements and access the discounted medications.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio . Terrell Hills News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: government ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Popular — and expensive — GLP-1 weight loss drugs just got a lot cheaper for many older Americans. Starting Wednesday, the federal government is offering a selection of the brand name medications to certain Medicare and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries for $50 a month through a new trial called M...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio and curated for Terrell Hills News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Ali Swenson, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) — San Antonio. To learn more about how Terrell Hills News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from Terrell Hills News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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