Droxia

Indicated For

Sickle cell disease

About This Medication

# Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Droxia at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Program (PAP) is designed to help patients who cannot afford their medications. If you've been prescribed Droxia (hydroxyurea) to treat sickle cell anemia and are struggling with the cost, this program may be able to help you get your medication at little to no cost. ## About Droxia (Hydroxyurea) Droxia is a prescription medication used to treat sickle cell anemia. It works by reducing the frequency of painful crises and other serious complications of sickle cell disease. Because this is an important medication for managing your condition, the manufacturer wants to ensure cost doesn't prevent you from getting the treatment you need. ## Who Can Apply? You may be eligible for the Bristol-Myers Squibb PAP if you meet ALL of these criteria: - You have a valid prescription for Droxia from your doctor - You are a U.S. resident - Your household income falls within program limits (see table below) - You are uninsured or underinsured (have insurance that doesn't cover Droxia or requires a high out-of-pocket cost) - You do not qualify for government insurance programs, or the program excludes your type of government insurance coverage **Important:** Some government insurance programs (like Medicaid and Medicare) may disqualify you from this assistance program. Check with the program before applying if you have government insurance. ## Income Eligibility Your household income must not exceed certain limits to qualify. The exact threshold varies based on your household size and specific circumstances. Use this general guide: | Household Size | Approximate Maximum Annual Income | |---|---| | 1 person | ~$21,000 - $35,000 | | 2 people | ~$28,000 - $47,000 | | 3 people | ~$35,000 - $59,000 | | 4 people | ~$42,000 - $71,000 | | 5 people | ~$49,000 - $83,000 | | 6+ people | Contact program for details | **Note:** Income thresholds vary and may be higher in some cases. These are approximate figures. Contact the program directly to confirm your exact eligibility based on your income. ## Insurance Requirements To qualify for this program, you must fall into one of these categories: - **Uninsured:** You have no health insurance coverage - **Underinsured:** You have health insurance, but it either: - Doesn't cover Droxia - Has a very high deductible or copay - Has annual limits that affect your access **Government Insurance Note:** Patients with Medicare, Medicaid, or other government insurance may not be eligible for this program in some cases. You'll need to verify your specific insurance type with the program. ## What Documents You'll Need Have these items ready before you apply: 1. **Valid prescription** for Droxia from your doctor 2. **Proof of income** (recent pay stubs, tax return, W-2, unemployment letter, or benefit statement) 3. **Proof of residency** (utility bill, lease agreement, or government-issued ID with current address) 4. **Insurance information** (insurance card, or letter stating you're uninsured) 5. **Contact information** (phone number and address) ## How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions ### Step 1: Gather Your Documents Collect all required documents listed above. Make copies if needed. ### Step 2: Contact the Program The Bristol-Myers Squibb PAP can be reached through multiple application methods. You can: - Apply online through the Bristol-Myers Squibb website (visit bms.com for patient assistance) - Contact their patient assistance hotline by phone - Mail in your application - Work with your healthcare provider or patient advocate to submit your application ### Step 3: Complete Your Application Fill out the application form completely and honestly. Include all required documents. If anything is unclear, the program staff will contact you. ### Step 4: Submit Your Application Submit using your chosen method (online, phone, mail, or through your healthcare provider). ### Step 5: Wait for Decision The program typically reviews applications within 4-8 weeks. You'll be contacted with the decision. ### Step 6: Receive Your Medication If approved, your medication will be delivered. Delivery methods vary by program but may include direct delivery to your home or pharmacy. ## What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery - **Processing Time:** 4-8 weeks on average (can vary) - **Notification:** You'll be contacted by phone, mail, or email with the decision - **Delivery:** Varies by program, but typically shipped to your home or pharmacy - **Reauthorization:** You'll need to reauthorize your assistance annually to continue receiving medication at no cost ## What If Your Application Is Denied? If you're denied: 1. **Ask for details** about why you were denied 2. **Check your eligibility** - make sure your income and insurance status still qualify 3. **Explore alternatives:** - Ask your doctor about generic hydroxyurea, which may be more affordable - Look into state pharmaceutical assistance programs - Contact NeedyMeds.org for other resources - Ask your healthcare provider about clinical trials - Contact sickle cell disease organizations for support ## Annual Reauthorization Your assistance doesn't last forever. You must reauthorize your eligibility once per year by: - Submitting updated income documentation - Confirming your continued need for the medication - Verifying your insurance status hasn't changed The program will notify you when it's time to renew. Don't wait until your medication runs out to reapply. ## Other Resources If the Bristol-Myers Squibb PAP isn't right for you, try these alternatives: - **NeedyMeds.org:** Database of free/low-cost medication programs - **State Pharmacy Assistance Programs:** Many states offer their own programs - **Patient Advocacy Organizations:** Sickle cell disease organizations often have resources - **Generic Hydroxyurea:** Ask your doctor if generic versions are more affordable - **Hospital Financial Assistance:** Many hospitals have programs for uninsured/underinsured patients ## Questions? Get Help If you have questions about: - **The application process:** Contact Bristol-Myers Squibb directly - **Your prescription:** Talk to your doctor or pharmacist - **Financial hardship:** Ask your healthcare provider about social workers or patient advocates ## Important Legal Information This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Program eligibility, income limits, and requirements are subject to change. Always verify current requirements directly with Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Program before applying. Your healthcare provider can also help you understand if this program is right for you. If you have questions about your specific medical situation, please consult with your doctor. --- **Last Updated:** 2024 **Program Provider:** Bristol-Myers Squibb **Medication:** Droxia (hydroxyurea)

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026