Federal employee GLP-1 coverage in 2027: what changes
For 2027, every federal plan must require documented therapy both before and during a GLP-1 for weight loss. Plans must still cover at least one. Seven plans below also changed their terms, most to a 50% cost share.
If your plan's new terms do not work: cash now
Two cash programs to check.
No insurance needed.
- Check price →
- Check price →SnagRx's homepage shows its 12-month prepaid prices first
SnagRx$99 a monthBilled monthly. The 12-month plan is $69 a month, billed as $828 up front.compounded semaglutide
What OPM told the plans
For 2027, all FEHB and PSHB Carriers will require documented participation in an evidence-based intensive behavioral therapy (IBT) program both prior to and during treatment with anti-obesity medications.
Source: Federal Benefits Open Season Highlights, 2027 Plan Year. The binding letter is FEHB Program Carrier Letter 2026-07 of March 31, 2026, which adds that a signed statement of past attempts does not get around the rule. Both read November 2, 2026.
What each plan changed
| Plan | 2027 change | Source |
|---|---|---|
| GEHA Benefit Plan (High and Standard) | 50% of the cost, and a required virtual program | 2027 brochure |
| Mail Handlers Benefit Plan | 50% tier with no cap per prescription, and a required CVS program | 2027 brochure |
| SAMBA Health Benefit Plan | 50% of the plan allowance instead of the normal drug copay | 2027 brochure |
| APWU Health Plan | 50% for 30-day and 90-day fills, and a required Teladoc program | 2027 brochure |
| Compass Rose Health Plan | A required weight program before coverage | 2027 brochure |
| Foreign Service Benefit Plan | 50% with no deductible, and monthly weigh-ins to stay covered | 2027 brochure |
| Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan (FEP Blue) | Its 2027 changes section does not single out anti-obesity drugs. OPM's therapy rule still applies. | 2027 brochure |
| Panama Canal Area Benefit Plan | GLP-1s used for weight loss rise to 50% coinsurance. | 2027 brochure |
Every plan here is listed from its 2027 brochure on opm.gov.
What cash costs today
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are pharmacy-made versions that are not FDA-approved and are not Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound or Mounjaro.
| Cash route | Monthly price | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Compounded semaglutide | From $79 | November 2, 2026 |
| Compounded tirzepatide | From $129 | November 2, 2026 |
| Wegovy pill from NovoCare | From $149 at the starter dose | November 2, 2026 |
| Zepbound vial from LillyDirect | From $299 at 2.5mg | November 2, 2026 |
Frequently asked questions
What does OPM require for 2027?
Do federal plans still have to cover a GLP-1 for weight loss?
When can I change plans?
Cash does not go through your plan and does not count toward its deductible. 2027 open enrollment dates.