HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has ended Medicaid coverage for certain weight-loss medications as of today. The state will no longer pay for GLP-1 drugs, such as Wegovy and Zepbound, when they are prescribed only for weight management in adults. This decision follows a review of the state's preferred drug list and budget requirements for the new year.

Health officials stated the change was necessary to control rising costs in the Medical Assistance program while prioritizing life-saving treatments. However, the medications will still be covered for residents who need them to treat diabetes or other specific chronic conditions. Patients currently using these medications for weight loss will need to consult their doctors about alternative treatments or private insurance options.

Separately, a new state law protects seniors in the PACE and PACENET programs. The law ensures that Social Security cost-of-living raises will not disqualify older residents from receiving prescription drug assistance through 2027. Without this law, many seniors would have exceeded the income limits for the program due to their increased benefits. State records indicate the move will help residents maintain access to affordable medicine.