No, Medicare Isn't Covering CBD
Here's What CMS's New Pilot Program Actually Does--And Why it Matters
What is the BEI Program?
Under the BEI program, some patients receiving care through participating healthcare organizations may have access to up to $500 per year in eligible hemp-derived products when their physician determines those products are appropriate as part of a personalized care plan.
The key detail?
The program is controlled by participating healthcare organizations and physicians—not by Medicare beneficiaries themselves.
Patients cannot simply choose products they know and trust and request reimbursement. Access is limited to approved organizations operating under CMS Innovation Center models and subject to significant clinical oversight and reporting requirements.
What the BEI Program Is NOT
This is not Medicare "covering CBD."
Medicare beneficiaries cannot purchase CBD products and submit receipts for reimbursement. They cannot select products on their own and receive a government subsidy.
Instead, CMS is allowing a small number of participating healthcare organizations to explore physician-guided use of certain hemp-derived products under carefully controlled conditions.
For now, most Medicare beneficiaries will not have access to the program.
Why BEI Matters
While the program is limited, it reflects something we've been watching for years: growing clinical interest in CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoids.
For people who have already incorporated CBD into their routines for recovery, sleep support, relaxation, and everyday wellness, this news may feel both encouraging and frustrating.
Encouraging because healthcare leaders are beginning to pay closer attention.
Frustrating because access remains extremely limited and most consumers won't be eligible for these programs anytime soon.
We view the BEI program as a small but meaningful step forward. Not because it suddenly changes access to CBD, but because it signals a growing willingness to evaluate hemp-derived products within structured clinical settings.
Why Forge Hemp Started
When we launched Forge Hemp in 2019, our goal was simple: Provide pure, potent, THC-free CBD products that people could trust.
At the time, many CBD products on the market contained low concentrations of CBD, inconsistent formulations, or ingredients that weren't clearly disclosed.
We believed people deserved access to pure, potent, THC-free CBD products they could trust. More than six years later, that philosophy continues to guide everything we do.
While policymakers, researchers, and healthcare organizations continue exploring the role of hemp-derived products, we've remained focused on creating high-quality products for customers who choose to incorporate them into their wellness routines.
Products like our 4X CBD Oil, Muscle Gel, and Body Balm have been part of that commitment from the beginning.
Looking Ahead
The BEI program is still in its infancy, and nobody knows exactly how these efforts will evolve.
What we do know is that conversations around hemp-derived wellness products continue to move forward, even as a Federal ban on most of our products is set to take effect November 12, 2026.
In the meantime, Forge Hemp will continue providing straightforward information, trusted products, and honest updates about developments that matter to our community.
Want to learn more?
Read the official CMS program information, the CMS announcement, or an independent legal analysis of the BEI program:
• CMS BEI Program Overview
• CMS Press Release on the BEI Program
• Foley & Lardner Analysis of the BEI Program
Thanks again,
Kelly + Team Forge
