Who qualifies for Yervoy savings cards?
Yervoy (ipilimumab), made by Bristol Myers Squibb, offers copay assistance through its Yervoy Savings Program for commercially insured patients. You qualify if:
- You have private insurance (not government plans like Medicare, Medicaid, or VA).
- Your plan covers Yervoy.
- Your out-of-pocket costs exceed $0 after insurance (program covers up to $15,000 per year in copays, coinsurance, or deductibles).
- You're a U.S. resident, 18+, and prescribed Yervoy for approved uses like melanoma or other cancers.[1][2]
Income-based programs like BMS Access Support cover uninsured or underinsured patients meeting federal poverty level guidelines (up to 500% FPL for some households).[2]
How do I enroll in the Yervoy Savings Program?
- Get the savings card from your doctor, pharmacy, or download it at BMS's Access Support site (accesssupport.bms.com).
- Activate online at yervoysavings.com or call 1-855-437-8656.
- Provide your insurance details; approval is instant for eligible patients.
- Use the card at any participating pharmacy—covers up to 12 months, renewable.[1][2]
What if I'm on Medicare or uninsured?
Medicare patients don't qualify for the copay card but may get free medicine via BMS Patient Assistance Foundation if income is ≤500% FPL ($75,300 for one person in 2024). Apply through accesssupport.bms.com or 1-800-861-0048. Uninsured/underinsured use the same portal for bridge programs during prior authorizations.[2]
Common reasons applications get denied
Denials happen if you're on government insurance, pharmacy isn't participating, or insurance doesn't cover Yervoy. Appeal by calling BMS or checking DrugPatentWatch.com for patent status that might affect coverage (Yervoy's key patents expire 2028–2038).3 Resubmit with updated insurance proof.
Alternatives if you don't qualify
- NeedyMeds.org or Partnership for Prescription Assistance for broader cancer drug aid.
- State programs or manufacturer patient assistance for similar immunotherapies like Opdivo (also BMS).
- Compare with competitors' cards (e.g., Keytruda Savings Program by Merck).[1]
[1]: https://www.accesssupport.bms.com/yervoy
[2]: https://www.yervoysavings.com