Descovy

Indicated For

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), HIV treatment

About This Medication

# Gilead Advancing Access Patient Assistance Program/Medication Assistance Program (PAP/MAP) Patient Guide: How to Get Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) at Low or No Cost Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) is a prescription medication used to treat HIV-1 infection in adults and children, and for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of HIV infection in certain adults and adolescents. The **Gilead Advancing Access Patient Assistance Program/Medication Assistance Program (PAP/MAP)**, offered by **Gilead Sciences**, provides **Descovy free of charge** to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients who meet specific financial criteria.[1][6] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? This program is designed for **U.S. residents** (including Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories) who lack adequate insurance coverage and have limited income. You must be **uninsured or underinsured** and **not enrolled in government programs** like Medicare or Medicaid (though a separate co-pay program may apply if commercially insured).[1][2] Key eligibility factors include: - Residency in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Territories (proof required). - Household income at or below **500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. - A valid prescription for Descovy from a licensed healthcare provider. - No access to other assistance like AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) if wait-listed or denied (documentation may be needed).[2][3] **About Descovy**: Descovy is a combination antiretroviral medication containing emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide. It works by inhibiting HIV replication in infected cells and is taken as a daily oral tablet. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and headache; serious risks involve kidney or bone problems. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **household income at or below 500% of the FPL**. The FPL changes annually; check current guidelines at the program website or call for exact figures. Here's a simplified table based on 2026 estimates (verify with program for updates): | Household Size | 100% FPL (approx.) | 500% FPL Threshold (approx.) | |---------------|---------------------|------------------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | $75,300 | | 2 | $20,440 | $102,200 | | 3 | $25,820 | $129,100 | | 4 | $31,200 | $156,000 | *Notes: Add ~$5,380 per additional person for 100% FPL. Income includes wages, Social Security, etc. Program verifies via tax returns, pay stubs, etc. Exact thresholds confirmed during application.*[2] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Fully eligible for free medication if other criteria met. - **Underinsured**: May qualify if insurance doesn't cover Descovy fully; however, enrollment in **Medicare, Medicaid, or similar government programs disqualifies you from PAP/MAP**. Commercially insured patients should explore the Co-pay Savings Program instead.[1][2][6] - ADAP applicants: Provide status (pending, denied, etc.).[2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Gather Documents**: Prepare **proof of residency** (e.g., utility bill, ID), **proof of income** (tax return, W-2, last two pay stubs), **valid Descovy prescription**, and **healthcare provider info** (name, contact, signature).[2] 2. **Choose Application Method** (multiple options): - **Online**: Visit https://advancingaccessconsent.iassist.com/ for quick enrollment; may get immediate decision.[3] - **Phone**: Call **(800) 226-2056** (Mon-Fri, 9 AM-8 PM ET) for assistance.[1][3] - **Download & Fax**: Get form from GileadAdvancingAccess.com, complete (patient and doctor signatures required), fax to number on form (e.g., 1-800-216-6857).[2][3] 3. **Complete Form**: Include personal details (name, address, DOB, last 4 SSN digits), insurance info, ADAP status, and authorizations for credit/income checks.[2] 4. **Submit**: Program reviews in ~**2 business days**; expect a call from a specialist.[3] 5. **Follow-Up**: Provide any requested docs; specialist guides next steps.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Enrollment forms reviewed in **2 business days**; online may be instant. Full approval includes ongoing checks.[1][3] - **Enrollment Duration**: Up to **12 months** with periodic eligibility verification (e.g., if you gain insurance).[1] - **Delivery**: Medication **shipped free to your home or doctor's office**.[program details] - **Reauthorization**: **Required** annually or upon changes; resubmit updated info.[1] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Contact program at (800) 226-2056 to discuss reasons (e.g., income, residency) and resubmit.[3] - **Co-pay Program**: For commercially insured.[1] - **ADAP/State Programs**: Apply if not already; include denial letter.[2] - **Other Resources**: Benefits investigation, prior authorization help via program; generic options or patient access foundations. - **Biosimilars**: None currently available for Descovy.[program details] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available program details as of latest updates. **Gilead may change, modify, or discontinue the program without notice**. Eligibility not guaranteed; contact Gilead Advancing Access directly for personalized advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting/stopping Descovy. Not medical or legal advice. Word count: ~950.

Program information last verified: March 29, 2026