Descovy

Indicated For

HIV-1 infection, HIV-1 pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)

About This Medication

# Gilead Advancing Access Guide: Getting Descovy at Low Cost ## What is Descovy? Descovy (emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide) is a prescription medication used to treat HIV-1 infection and prevent HIV-1 infection in people at high risk (pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP). It's manufactured by Gilead Sciences. ## What is the Gilead Advancing Access Program? The Gilead Advancing Access Patient Assistance Program (PAP) and Medication Assistance Program (MAP) help patients who cannot afford Descovy get their medication for free or at a significantly reduced cost. This program is designed for uninsured and underinsured patients. ## Who Can Apply? You may qualify for assistance if you meet these criteria: **Income Requirements:** - Individual income must not exceed 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) - For 2024, this means individuals earning up to approximately $73,000 per year may qualify (amounts vary yearly) - Higher income limits may apply for families **Insurance Status:** - Uninsured patients - Underinsured patients (those with insurance that doesn't adequately cover Descovy) **Residency:** - You must be a U.S. resident ## What Documents Do You Need? Before you apply, gather these documents: 1. **Valid Prescription** - A current prescription for Descovy from your doctor 2. **Proof of Income** - Recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements showing your annual income 3. **Proof of Residency** - A utility bill, lease agreement, or government-issued ID with your current address 4. **Insurance Information** - Details about your current coverage (if any) ## How to Apply **Step 1: Contact the Program** Call the Gilead Advancing Access team at **(800) 226-2056** or visit **https://www.gileadadvancingaccess.com** to start your application. **Step 2: Complete Your Application** You can apply through: - Phone call with a program representative - Online application through the website - Mail-in application form The program staff will guide you through the process and answer any questions. **Step 3: Submit Required Documents** Provide copies of your proof of income, residency, and your valid prescription. You can submit these by mail, fax, or upload them online. **Step 4: Wait for Approval** The program will review your application and notify you of the decision. Once approved, you'll receive information about how to get your medication. ## Timeline Most applications are reviewed within **1-2 weeks** of submission if all documents are complete. Some approvals happen faster. However, incomplete applications may take longer. ## What Happens if You're Approved? If approved, you have several options: - **Free Medication**: The program may provide Descovy at no cost - **Reduced Cost**: You may pay a small co-payment - **Savings Card**: A separate discount card may be available to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs at the pharmacy ## Important Details **Annual Re-authorization:** Your assistance is not permanent. You must reapply **every year** to continue receiving help. The program will notify you when it's time to renew. **Pharmacy Information:** Once approved, you can fill your prescription at most major pharmacies. The program will provide you with instructions on how to process your prescription. **Generic Availability:** Currently, there are no generic versions of Descovy available, so this program helps you access the brand-name medication. ## Other Ways to Save Even if you don't qualify for the assistance program, Gilead offers a **savings card** that may reduce your medication costs if you have insurance. ## What If Your Application is Denied? If denied, ask why. You may be able to reapply if your circumstances change (income decrease, job loss, insurance change). The program staff can explain your options and help you understand next steps. ## Need More Help? If you have questions about the application process or your eligibility, call **(800) 226-2056**. The program team can answer questions in multiple languages and help guide you through each step. ## Important Reminder Do not delay treatment while waiting for approval. Speak with your doctor or local health department about temporary assistance options if you need medication immediately.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026