Wegovy for Heart Disease: 2026 Insurance Coverage & Cardiovascular Benefits
By Dr. Sarah Mitchell, Certified Respiratory Therapist · Published 2026-01-08 · 8 min read
The FDA expanded Wegovy approval to reduce heart attacks and strokes. Here is what changed for Medicare coverage and patient access.
A Game-Changing FDA Decision
In March 2024, the FDA expanded Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) approval to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in overweight/obese adults with established heart disease — based on the SELECT trial showing a 20% MACE reduction over 3+ years.
Medicare Part D Changes
Previously, Medicare was prohibited from covering weight loss drugs. With the cardiovascular indication, Medicare Part D plans now cover Wegovy for patients with established CVD — a major access expansion for millions of seniors.
Who Qualifies
- BMI ≥27 with established cardiovascular disease
- Prior MI, stroke, or symptomatic PAD
- Must enroll through cardiology or primary care
Beyond the Heart
The same SELECT cohort showed improvements in sleep apnea severity, kidney function, and heart failure symptoms — making Wegovy a multi-organ therapy.