Eliquis

Indicated For

atrial fibrillation stroke prevention, DVT, PE prophylaxis and treatment

About This Medication

# Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Eliquis (apixaban) at Low or No Cost Eliquis (apixaban) is a prescription blood thinner used to prevent and treat blood clots, reducing the risk of stroke in people with certain heart conditions like atrial fibrillation. The **Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF)** offers this medication **free** to eligible patients who are uninsured or have limited coverage and meet income guidelines, typically below **300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. This guide explains everything you need to know to apply and get started.[1][3] ## About Eliquis (apixaban) **Eliquis** is an oral anticoagulant, or blood thinner, that helps prevent dangerous blood clots. It's commonly prescribed for: - Reducing stroke risk in patients with **nonvalvular atrial fibrillation** (irregular heartbeat not caused by heart valve issues). - Treating and preventing **deep vein thrombosis (DVT)** and **pulmonary embolism (PE)** after hip or knee replacement surgery or other clot events. Unlike older blood thinners like warfarin, Eliquis doesn't require frequent blood tests for monitoring and has fewer food interactions. However, it increases bleeding risk, so follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Always take it exactly as prescribed—usually twice daily with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose; never double up.[1][3] Accessing Eliquis can be expensive without assistance—retail costs often exceed $500 per month. BMSPAF bridges this gap for those who qualify, providing a **90-day supply** shipped free to your doctor's office or home.[5][6] ## Who Qualifies for BMSPAF? BMSPAF is for **U.S. residents 18+** (including Puerto Rico) who: - Lack prescription coverage for Eliquis or have limited coverage. - Have **household income below 300% FPL**. - Are not enrolled in government programs that fully cover the medication (with exceptions for Medicare Part D after spending 3% of income on out-of-pocket costs). **Key exclusions**: Active Medicaid (in most cases), VA/military coverage, or state assistance that covers the drug fully. Underinsured patients may qualify if copays are unaffordable.[3][6] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Eligibility is based on **total household income** (pre-tax) compared to **300% of the 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. Household size includes you, your spouse/partner, and dependents. Use the table below for quick reference (FPL figures are approximate; confirm current levels via HHS.gov or call BMSPAF).[3] | Household Size | 100% FPL | 300% FPL Threshold | |---------------|----------|---------------------| | 1 | $15,060 | **$45,180** | | 2 | $20,440 | **$61,320** | | 3 | $25,820 | **$77,460** | | 4 | $31,200 | **$93,600** | | 5 | $36,580 | **$109,740** | | Add per person| +$5,380 | **+$16,140** | **Notes**: Provide **proof of income** (tax returns, pay stubs, W-2s). BMSPAF may audit finances. Medicare Part D patients qualify after spending ≥3% of household income on prescriptions.[3][5] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Fully eligible if income-qualified. - **Limited coverage/underinsured**: Eligible if you can't afford copays/deductibles. - **Medicare Part D**: Possible if you've spent at least **3% of household income** on out-of-pocket drug costs this year. - **Exclusions**: Full Medicaid, Medicare A/B without Part D exception, VA/military, or private insurance that covers Eliquis adequately. No copay cards for government-insured patients.[3][6] Call **1-800-736-0003** to verify your situation (Mon-Fri, 8am-8pm ET).[1] ## Step-by-Step Application Process BMSPAF offers **multiple application methods**: mail, fax, or download forms.[1][3] 1. **Get the form**: Download from bmspaf.org or call **800-736-0003** to request one by mail.[1][5] 2. **Complete patient section**: Provide name, DOB, address, income, insurance status, current meds, household size.[3] 3. **Gather documents**: - **Proof of income** (last year's tax return, pay stubs for 4 weeks, SSI/SSA award letter). - **Proof of residency** (utility bill, lease). - **Prescription** for Eliquis (attach or have doctor include). - **Proof of insurance status** (insurance card or denial letter; list all coverage).[3][5] 4. **Doctor completes their section**: Prescriber verifies diagnosis, provides contact/shipping info, signs.[3] 5. **Submit**: - **Mail**: Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation, PO Box 220769, Charlotte, NC 28222-0769 (or PO Box 1058, Somerville, NJ 08876 per some forms).[3][5] - **Fax**: 800-736-1611. Don't fax multiples.[5] 6. **Track**: Note your case # if provided. Expect notification by mail.[3] **Tip**: Complete everything accurately—incomplete apps delay processing.[3][5] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing takes **2-4 weeks** typically, but can vary. You'll receive a decision letter. If approved, a **90-day supply** ships to your **physician's office** or home (specify preference). Initial approval lasts up to **12 months**; **reauthorization** is required annually (or Jan for Medicare pts). Refills need doctor re-certification.[5][6] ## Alternatives if Denied or No Other Options - **BMS Access Support**: For insured patients—copay assistance, prior auth help (1-800-861-0048).[2][4] - **RxHope** or **NeedyMeds**: Search other PAPs. - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or **HealthWell Foundation**: Grants for copays if underinsured. - **State programs** or **generic apixaban** if appropriate (discuss with doctor). - **No biosimilars** for Eliquis currently.[4] Reapply if circumstances change or appeal with more docs.[5] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available BMSPAF details as of 2026. Program rules, FPL levels, and availability can change—**always verify with BMSPAF at 800-736-0003 or bmspaf.org**. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor before starting/stopping Eliquis. BMSPAF conducts audits; falsifying info may disqualify you. Eliquis trademarks owned by Bristol-Myers Squibb.[1][3][5]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026