Gilotrif
Generic: afatinib
Manufacturer: Boehringer Ingelheim · Program: Boehringer Cares Patient Assistance Program
Apply for AssistanceEligibility Criteria
Insurance Requirement
Uninsured, underinsured, Medicare, and Medicaid patients eligible; designed for patients with difficulty affording medications
Residency
US resident or US Territories resident
Program requires meeting specific income and healthcare coverage criteria; exact thresholds not specified in available sources
Program Information
Processing Time
4–8 weeks
Delivery Method
shipped to patient
Application Method
Phone
Indicated For
Non-small cell lung cancer
About This Medication
# Boehringer Cares Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Gilotrif at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The **Boehringer Cares Patient Assistance Program** helps eligible patients afford Gilotrif (afatinib), a prescription medication used to treat non-small cell lung cancer. If you're struggling to pay for your medication, this program may be able to help you get Gilotrif at reduced cost or even free. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect. ## About Gilotrif (Afatinib) Gilotrif is a targeted cancer medication called a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It works by blocking proteins that help cancer cells grow and spread. It's prescribed for patients with specific types of non-small cell lung cancer. Because this is a specialty cancer medication, it can be very expensive—often costing thousands of dollars per month without assistance. ## Who Can Apply? You may be eligible for the Boehringer Cares Patient Assistance Program if you meet these criteria: - **You have a valid prescription** for Gilotrif from your doctor - **You are uninsured** (have no health insurance coverage) - **You are underinsured** (your insurance doesn't adequately cover Gilotrif, or you have high copays/deductibles) - **You are on Medicare** (the program helps Medicare patients with costs) - **You are on Medicaid** (the program helps Medicaid patients with costs) - **You have financial difficulty** affording your medication - **You are a U.S. resident** The program is specifically designed to help patients who would otherwise struggle to afford this life-saving medication. ## Income Eligibility While the program uses income guidelines, they are flexible and vary based on individual circumstances. The table below shows approximate income thresholds, but actual eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Your specific situation—including medical expenses, debts, and other financial obligations—will be considered. | Household Size | Approximate Maximum Annual Income | |---|---| | 1 person | Varies—call for details | | 2 people | Varies—call for details | | 3 people | Varies—call for details | | 4 people | Varies—call for details | | 5+ people | Varies—call for details | **Important:** These are guidelines only. Income limits are flexible. Even if you think you earn too much, you should still apply. Many patients whose income exceeds standard guidelines are approved based on medical and other hardship factors. ## Insurance Requirements The program accepts patients with various insurance situations: - **Uninsured patients:** Fully eligible - **Underinsured patients:** Eligible if your insurance doesn't adequately cover Gilotrif or your out-of-pocket costs are too high - **Medicare patients:** Eligible; the program helps bridge coverage gaps - **Medicaid patients:** Eligible; the program helps with any remaining costs - **Privately insured patients:** May be eligible depending on your coverage and financial situation ## What You'll Need to Apply Gather these documents before calling to apply: 1. **Valid prescription for Gilotrif** from your doctor 2. **Proof of income** (choose one): - Recent tax return (last 2 years) - Recent pay stubs (last 30 days) - Social Security statement - Unemployment documentation - Disability award letter - Other proof of income or financial need 3. **Identification** (driver's license or state ID) 4. **Insurance information** (if you have any insurance) 5. **Contact information** (phone number and mailing address) If you don't have all these documents, don't worry—call anyway. The program staff will help you figure out what you can provide. ## How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions ### Step 1: Call the Program Contact the Boehringer Cares Patient Assistance Program at: **Phone: (800) 556-8317** Call during business hours, Monday through Friday. Have your insurance card (if you have one) and prescription ready. ### Step 2: Speak with a Program Representative A staff member will: - Answer your questions about the program - Ask about your income and insurance - Verify that you have a valid Gilotrif prescription - Explain the application process - Tell you what documents you need to provide ### Step 3: Complete Your Application You have two options: - **Phone application:** Complete the entire application during your call - **Mail application:** Receive an application form in the mail to complete and return The phone application is usually faster. ### Step 4: Submit Required Documents Provide your income verification and other required documents: - By phone (if provided during the call) - By mail - Through the online portal at https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/about-us/sustainable-development/our-commitment/boehringer-cares-patient-assistance-portal ### Step 5: Wait for Approval The program typically reviews applications within 4-8 weeks. You'll be notified by phone or mail about the outcome. ### Step 6: Receive Your Medication Once approved, Gilotrif will be: - **Shipped directly to you** or to your pharmacy - Sent regularly for ongoing treatment - Covered under the program's benefits You may receive a 30-day, 60-day, or 90-day supply at a time, depending on the program's determination. ## Timeline and What to Expect - **Application call:** 15-30 minutes - **Document submission:** Same day or within a few days - **Review and approval:** Typically 4-8 weeks - **First shipment:** Within 1-2 weeks after approval - **Ongoing deliveries:** Shipped regularly (frequency varies) If you have urgent needs, mention this during your application call. The program may be able to expedite your application. ## Savings Card Option If you don't qualify for the full assistance program, Boehringer Ingelheim offers a manufacturer savings card that can reduce your copays. Check the manufacturer website at https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/about-us/sustainable-development/our-commitment/boehringer-cares-patient-assistance-portal for current details on savings card programs. ## What If Your Application Is Denied? If your application is denied: 1. **Ask why:** Request a specific explanation 2. **Ask about appeal:** Inquire if you can appeal the decision 3. **Reapply:** If your circumstances change, you can reapply 4. **Explore alternatives:** - Contact your doctor's office—they may have samples - Ask your oncology social worker about other resources - Investigate state pharmaceutical assistance programs - Call 211 (United Way) for local assistance resources - Contact the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 ## Important Reminders - **You must have a valid prescription** to apply—ask your doctor to send one - **Call as soon as possible**—don't wait; the sooner you apply, the sooner you can get help - **Be honest about your finances**—the program is designed to help people in need - **Keep the program updated**—tell them if your situation changes - **Ask questions**—the staff is there to help you navigate the process ## Contact Information **Boehringer Cares Patient Assistance Program** - **Phone:** (800) 556-8317 - **Online Portal:** https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/about-us/sustainable-development/our-commitment/boehringer-cares-patient-assistance-portal - **Hours:** Monday-Friday, business hours ## Legal Disclaimer This guide provides general information about the Boehringer Cares Patient Assistance Program. Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefits are subject to change. For the most current and complete information, contact the program directly or visit the official website. This guide does not constitute medical or legal advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider and the program directly regarding your specific eligibility and coverage.
Program information last verified: March 25, 2026
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