Gemzar

Indicated For

pancreatic cancer, NSCLC, bladder cancer, breast cancer

About This Medication

# Patient One Lilly Oncology Patient Assistance Program: How to Get Gemzar at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The **Patient One Lilly Oncology Patient Assistance Program** is designed to help uninsured patients access Gemzar (gemcitabine), a chemotherapy medication manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company[7]. This program provides free medication to eligible patients who cannot afford their cancer treatment. ## About Gemzar Gemzar is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. Your oncologist has determined that Gemzar is an appropriate treatment for your condition. This patient assistance program ensures that cost is not a barrier to receiving this potentially life-saving medication. ## Who Qualifies for This Program To be eligible for the Patient One Lilly Oncology Patient Assistance Program, you must meet the following requirements[7]: - **Be a U.S. resident** (including Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) - **Have no insurance coverage** for Gemzar - **Meet additional eligibility criteria** determined on a case-by-case basis - **Have a valid prescription** from your healthcare provider If you have insurance but are struggling with high out-of-pocket costs, you may also qualify for other Lilly assistance programs. Contact the program directly to discuss your specific situation. ## Income Eligibility Guidelines The Patient One program evaluates eligibility on a **case-by-case basis**[7], which means your individual financial circumstances are reviewed rather than applying a strict income cutoff. However, Lilly's broader patient assistance programs use income thresholds based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)[8][9]. For reference, Lilly's general patient assistance programs set income limits at **300% of the Federal Poverty Level or higher**[9]. Here's what this means for different household sizes: | Household Size | Approximate Annual Income Limit (300% FPL) | |---|---| | 1 person | ~$22,000 | | 2 people | ~$44,000 | | 3 people | ~$55,000 | | 4 people | ~$66,000 | These figures are approximate and updated annually. Your actual eligibility will depend on your household's total adjusted gross income and the specific program guidelines at the time of application. ## Insurance Requirements The Patient One program is specifically designed for **uninsured patients**[7]. You are not eligible if you have: - Active health insurance coverage for prescription medications - Medicaid - Medicare (including Medicare Part D) - Veterans (VA) benefits - Other state or federal healthcare programs If you have insurance but face high copayments or deductibles, contact the Lilly Oncology Support Center to explore alternative assistance options. ## How to Apply ### Step 1: Gather Required Information Before applying, have the following ready: - Your prescription for Gemzar from your oncologist - Proof of U.S. residency - Documentation of your household income (recent tax return, pay stubs, or benefit statements) - Proof of lack of insurance coverage ### Step 2: Contact Your Healthcare Provider Your **physician applies on behalf of you**[7]. Contact your oncologist's office and let them know you need assistance with Gemzar costs. Provide them with the program contact information below. ### Step 3: Submit the Application Your healthcare provider will submit your application to the program by calling: **Phone: 1-866-472-8663**[7] Your doctor's office can also contact the Lilly Oncology Support Center at this same number for guidance on the application process. ### Step 4: Provide Documentation Be prepared to submit: - Your prescription - Proof of income - Proof of residency - Documentation that you are uninsured Keep copies of everything you submit for your records. ## Timeline and Delivery The program reviews applications on a **case-by-case basis**[7], which means processing times may vary depending on the completeness of your application and your individual circumstances. Once approved, Gemzar will be provided at no cost to you. Your healthcare provider will receive notification of your approval status and can coordinate delivery with your treatment schedule. For specific information about processing times and delivery methods for your situation, ask your oncologist's office or call the support line directly. ## What If Your Application Is Denied? If you are denied enrollment, ask the program for specific reasons. Common reasons for denial include: - Having insurance coverage (even if you have high out-of-pocket costs) - Income exceeding program limits - Not meeting residency requirements If denied, you have several options: 1. **Appeal the decision** by providing additional documentation 2. **Explore other Lilly programs** - The Lilly Cares Foundation offers broader assistance for uninsured patients[1] 3. **Contact the Lilly Oncology Support Center** at 1-866-472-8663 to discuss alternative financial assistance options 4. **Seek help from independent patient assistance foundations** listed on Lilly's website[4] ## Reauthorization and Refills The program provides assistance for the duration of your therapy with Gemzar[1]. However, you may need to reauthorize your enrollment periodically. Your healthcare provider will coordinate any necessary reauthorization with the program to ensure uninterrupted access to your medication. ## Important Disclaimer This guide provides general information about the Patient One Lilly Oncology Patient Assistance Program. Program details, eligibility requirements, and income limits may change. For the most current and accurate information, contact: - **Lilly Oncology Support Center**: 1-866-472-8663 - **Your healthcare provider's office** - **Lilly's official website**: oncologysupport.lilly.com This program is not insurance and does not replace your healthcare coverage. Always discuss your treatment plan and financial concerns with your oncologist. ## Additional Resources If you need help navigating patient assistance programs, organizations like Simplefill can help identify programs you may qualify for and assist with applications[8]. Your oncologist's office may also have a financial counselor who can help you explore all available options.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026