CMS launched a voluntary payment model aimed at expanding Medicare coverage for GLP‑1 weight‑loss drugs. The agency designed the model to broaden beneficiary access while seeking ways to lower drug costs through new payment arrangements. CMS framed the move as a step built on prior federal goals to reduce the price of popular obesity medicines. The model is voluntary for plans and aims to balance access with cost controls; CMS said the approach would collect data on utilization and outcomes to inform future policy. Health plans, manufacturers and employer payers will watch participation rules and reimbursement mechanics closely, since wider Medicare coverage could materially shift prescribing volumes and pricing dynamics across the obesity drug market. Manufacturers and advisors should prepare for potential downstream effects on launch strategy, formulary negotiations and patient support programs. The initiative signals an active federal willingness to experiment with payment models that directly affect high‑demand specialty drugs.