Healthcare Finance News January 2, 2026
Model enables state Medicaid agencies and Medicare Part D to cover GLP-1 drugs.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has announced a voluntary test of a model to give Medicare Part D plans and state Medicaid agencies the ability to cover GLP-1 medications used for weight management and metabolic health improvement.
The Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth (BALANCE) Model builds on emerging evidence that combining access to GLP-1 medications with access to evidence-based lifestyle achieves better long-term health outcomes, CMS said.
“The model represents a major step toward potential expanded access and affordability for millions of Americans,” CMS said.
Participation is voluntary for manufacturers, states and plans. Additional information is expected early this...







