An update on our coverage of GLP-1 medications

In this issue:

• An update on our coverage of GLP-1 medications
• Virtual primary care: Convenient access to care
• Reminder: Join us on October 7 for our fall broker webinar
• Biggest health plan wins in 2025 from five leaders
• Toolkit: Share these resources with your clients

An update on our coverage of GLP-1 medications

We are writing to remind you about a change to our coverage of GLP-1 medications.

Mass General Brigham Health Plan provides comprehensive coverage and benefits to support the health and wellness of our members. Beginning on January 1, 2026, we are updating our coverage of GLP-1 medications for fully insured commercial members. While we are continuing to cover GLP-1s for type 2 diabetes, we will no longer provide coverage of GLP-1 medications for weight management. 

We recognize the significant impact of GLP-1 medications, and we are committed to supporting our members on their healthcare journeys. Members have opportunities to connect with our dedicated team of service professionals for additional information and support. Our teams will review available options and programs to help members manage their weight loss journeys. Care management is also available to all our members at no additional cost. Our programs include: 

• Healthier You: A year-long program for members who are looking to lose weight, become more active, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
• Access to health coaches: One-on-one health coaching by phone at no cost to help members make a wellness plan and connect to resources in the community.
• Fitness and weight loss reimbursements: For subscriptions, programs, or activities at qualifying fitness facilities and up to six months of membership fees at a qualified weight-loss program.
• Mental health support: Comprehensive virtual and in-person mental health services.
• Care Management programs: A variety of programs to support our members’ health needs.

This coverage change is effective on January 1, 2026 for individual and small groups, and upon renewal in 2026 for large groups. In addition, we are notifying employer accounts with 50 or more enrolled subscribers about the option to add coverage of GLP-1s for weight management when their plans renew in 2026. We will also be sending notices to impacted members about their coverage and alternative options for wellness support. 

For more information about this change and frequently asked questions, please visit our new GLP-1s coverage page on our website.  

If you have questions, contact our Broker & Account Services team at 866-643-8392 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.). 

Thank you again for your support and all that you do on behalf of our employer accounts and members.  

Virtual primary care: Convenient access to care

Reminder: Join us on October 7 for our fall broker webinar

You’re invited to join us on October 7 as we walk you through the latest news and product updates from Mass General Brigham Health Plan and how they relate to you and your customers.

Highlights will include:

• GLP-1 formulary changes
• Product portfolio and Merged Market updates
• Value of Mass General Brigham Health Plan

Register today

Biggest health plan wins in 2025 from five leaders

Over the past year, shifts in economic conditions and federal policy have significantly influenced the operations of health plans. In response, organizations have implemented targeted strategies to drive efficiency and sustainable growth. To highlight notable achievements in 2025, Becker’s engaged five industry leaders, including Jennifer St. Thomas, Senior Vice President of Commercial and Medicare Markets, to share their perspectives:

"Some of our biggest accomplishments this year have been the contributions of our dedicated workforce. As a leader, it is incredibly gratifying to see these individuals and teams working to improve processes, find new ways to support our members, and go that extra mile to make a difference for the member experience. These contributions—however small—make a big impact in delivering exceptional healthcare experiences and fostering a culture where employees thrive at Mass General Brigham Health Plan," St. Thomas shared.

Read more on Becker’s Healthcare website.

Tips for sharing these articles and resources

• Include in an email blast to your clients
• Post on your social media or blog

Articles and resources for your clients

• • Blog: 4 Alternative therapies for pain management
    Suggested text to share with clients: "Chronic pain affects millions of individuals annually. According to the CDC's 2021 report, more than 20% of adults in the United States experience chronic pain. This impacts nearly 52 million individuals (about twice the population of Texas) in their daily lives. Reliance on opioids and medication for chronic pain management has further complicated an already challenging health issue. Alternative pain therapies like acupuncture, chiropractic care, physical/occupational therapy, and yoga offer different approaches to managing pain and promoting healing. Read more."
    
    
  • Blog: Interstitial Cystitis Awareness Month: Raising awareness, understanding symptoms, and exploring treatment options
    Suggested text to share with clients: "September marks Interstitial Cystitis (IC) Awareness Month, a time to shine a spotlight on a chronic condition that affects millions but often goes unnoticed. For the 4-12 million people potentially living with IC, the struggle is real—yet many may feel their pain and discomfort are dismissed due to its invisibility and the complexity of diagnosis. Now is the perfect time to learn about the symptoms, causes, and available treatments for this condition, and to help those who live with IC feel seen and understood. Read more."