Who Qualifies for Yervoy Patient Assistance Programs?
Patients qualify for Yervoy (ipilimumab) discounts primarily through Bristol Myers Squibb's (BMS) programs if they have commercial insurance, no coverage, or face high out-of-pocket costs. Eligibility typically requires U.S. residency, a valid prescription for Yervoy (used for melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, or other approved cancers), and household income up to 800% of the federal poverty level (FPL)—around $124,800 for a single person or $520,000 for a family of 8 in 2024.1
Key qualifiers:
- Commercial insurance: Patients pay $0 copay for up to 12 months or until reaching the coverage gap (catastrophic phase).
- Government insurance: Medicare Part D or Medicaid patients often ineligible for copay help but may access free drug via patient assistance.
- Uninsured/underinsured: Full free supply if income ≤500% FPL; partial discounts up to 800% FPL.
How to Enroll in BMS Access Support?
Apply via BMS Access Support at 1-888-757-2814 or bmsaccesssupport.com. Provide proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), insurance details, and doctor info. Approval takes 1-2 days; benefits start immediately for copay cards or within weeks for free drug shipments to doctor's office.1
What About Copay Savings Cards?
BMS Yervoy CoPay Assist Card covers copays, coinsurance, or deductibles up to $25,000 per year. Activate online at yervoy.com/savings or by phone. No income check for commercially insured patients under 65; excludes government plans.1
When Do Discounts Not Apply?
Ineligible if on government insurance (except specific free drug programs), incarcerated, or income exceeds limits. Programs exclude off-label use or experimental trials. Coverage gaps occur after 12 months or benefit cap.1
Are There Alternatives Like GoodRx or Manufacturer Coupons?
GoodRx offers Yervoy coupons averaging 10-20% off list price ($30,000+ per dose), usable at pharmacies without insurance. Compare prices at goodrx.com. BMS also partners with third-party foundations like Patient Access Network (PAN) for extra help if income is 400-500% FPL.3
How Much Can Patients Save?
Eligible patients pay $0-$5 per infusion; average annual savings exceed $100,000. List price is ~$1,800/mg, but discounts make it free for many low-income qualifiers.2
Sources: