How Yervoy Savings Programs Work
Yervoy (ipilimumab), made by Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), offers patient assistance through the Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation and copay savings cards. These programs reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible commercially insured or uninsured patients, covering copays, coinsurance, or full medication costs in some cases. Eligibility requires U.S. residency, income limits (typically up to 400-500% of federal poverty level for free drug), and proof of no coverage alternatives.[1][2]
Does Location Affect Access in Remote Areas?
These programs do not restrict enrollment based on geography within the U.S., including remote areas like rural Alaska, Hawaii islands, or continental U.S. backcountry. You apply online, by phone (1-800-861-0048), or mail—no physical clinic visit needed for approval. Once approved, medication ships directly to your address via specialty pharmacies like AllianceRx or PANTHERx Rare, which deliver nationwide, including APO/FPO military addresses and territories like Puerto Rico.[1][3]
How Delivery Reaches Remote Spots
Specialty pharmacies handle Yervoy's cold-chain requirements (refrigerated) and use FedEx, UPS, or dedicated couriers for 1-2 day shipping. Patients in Alaska or Hawaii report standard delivery timelines, though weather delays can occur. No minimum population or proximity to urban hubs required—shipments go to verified residential addresses. If your area lacks reliable mail service, programs coordinate with local providers or alternate sites.[2][4]
What If Shipping Fails or Delays Happen?
Contact the program coordinator for reshipment at no extra cost. For extreme cases (e.g., no road access), BMS case managers arrange pickup at nearest infusion centers or provider offices—Yervoy is IV-administered, so remote patients often travel to outpatient facilities anyway. Telehealth enrollment helps if internet is spotty.[1][3]
Alternatives for Uninsured Remote Patients
Free drug via BMS Foundation ships directly; no pickup needed. State programs like Nebraska's or manufacturer copay cards stack with it. Compare with competitor programs: Merck's Keytruda Assistance also delivers remotely.[2]
[1]: BMS Access Support
[2]: BMS Patient Assistance Foundation
[3]: PANTHERx Specialty Delivery
[4]: AllianceRx Walgreens Pharmacy Shipping