How to Apply for Yervoy Financial Assistance
Yervoy (ipilimumab), made by Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), has patient support programs to help cover costs for eligible U.S. patients with commercial insurance, Medicare, or no coverage. The main option is the BMS Access Support program, which includes copay assistance, free medicine for uninsured patients, and reimbursement support.
Start by visiting the official BMS Access Support website at accesssupport.bms.com or calling 1-888-757-2814 (Monday-Friday, 8 AM-8 PM ET). Provide your insurance details, income info, and prescription for Yervoy to check eligibility during a quick phone screening or online application.[1]
Eligibility for Copay Savings Card
Most commercially insured patients qualify for the Yervoy Copay Assistance Program, reducing out-of-pocket costs to $0 for up to $25,000 per year (maximum 12 months, then renewable). Excludes government insurance like Medicare Part A/B/D or Medicaid. Apply online at the BMS site—activation is instant after verification.[1][2]
Free Medicine for Uninsured or Underinsured
Uninsured patients or those with coverage denials can get Yervoy at no cost through the BMS Patient Assistance Foundation if household income is at or below 400-500% of the federal poverty level (e.g., $60,000+ for a single person in 2024). Submit an application with proof of income, residency, and lack of insurance via mail, fax, or the BMS portal. Processing takes 1-2 weeks.[1]
What If You're on Medicare?
Medicare patients can't use the copay card but may qualify for the BMS Bridge Program, providing up to 90 days of free medicine during prior authorization appeals or coverage gaps. Call BMS Access Support to enroll.[1][2]
Other Options and Independent Programs
- NeedyMeds or PAN Foundation: Apply separately at needymeds.org or panfoundation.org for Yervoy grants if BMS denies you. These cover copays or premiums for underinsured patients.[3]
- RxAssist: Search rxassist.org for additional Yervoy programs from nonprofits.[4]
Application Tips and Common Delays
Gather ID, insurance card, income docs (tax returns/W-2s), and doctor's info beforehand. Applications are free and confidential. Delays happen with incomplete info or insurance verification—resubmit quickly via the portal. Reapply every 12 months for ongoing treatment.[1]
Track status online or by phone. For urgent needs, ask your doctor's office or pharmacy to assist with prior authorizations to speed coverage.
Sources
[1]: BMS Access Support for Yervoy
[2]: DrugPatentWatch - Yervoy Patient Assistance
[3]: NeedyMeds Yervoy Programs
[4]: RxAssist Ipilimumab Listings