Micardis HCT

BMS Access Support Co-Pay Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Micardis HCT at Low or No Cost

About This Program

The BMS Access Support Co-Pay Assistance Program is designed to help eligible patients afford their prescription medications, including Micardis HCT (telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide), a combination blood pressure medication manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb. If you're struggling with the cost of your Micardis HCT prescription, this program may be able to help reduce or eliminate your out-of-pocket expenses.

About Micardis HCT

Micardis HCT is a combination medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It contains two active ingredients:

• Telmisartan: An angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that helps relax blood vessels
• Hydrochlorothiazide: A thiazide diuretic that helps reduce excess fluid in your body

Together, these medications work to lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Controlling your blood pressure is essential for your long-term health, and this program exists to help ensure you can access this medication without financial hardship.

Who Qualifies for This Program?

You may be eligible for the BMS Access Support Co-Pay Assistance Program if you meet these basic criteria:

• Have a valid prescription for Micardis HCT from your doctor
• Have commercial insurance (private health insurance, not Medicare or Medicaid)
• Meet income requirements based on your household size (see table below)
• Are a U.S. resident
• Are not eligible for government insurance programs in most cases

Income Eligibility Guidelines

The program has income thresholds that vary based on your household size. While specific income limits aren't publicly detailed, the program uses federal poverty guidelines as a reference point. Here's a general income eligibility table:

*Income thresholds may be higher depending on the specific assistance tier. Contact the program directly or complete an online application to learn your exact eligibility.

Important Insurance Requirements

This program is for commercially insured patients only. This means:

• You must have private health insurance
• You cannot be enrolled in Medicare
• You cannot be enrolled in Medicaid
• You cannot be uninsured

If you have Medicare or Medicaid, see the FAQ section below for alternative resources.

Required Documents

Before you apply, gather the following:

1. Valid prescription for Micardis HCT from your doctor
2. Proof of income, such as:
   • Recent pay stubs (last 2-3 months)
   • Tax return from the previous year
   • W-2 forms
   • Proof of government benefits
   • Pension or Social Security statements
3. Proof of insurance (insurance card or documentation)
4. Identification (driver's license or state ID)
5. Contact information (phone number and email address)

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Visit the Program Website

Go to https://www.bmsaccesssupport.com/co-pay-financial-assistance to begin your application online.

Step 2: Create Your Account

You'll need to provide basic information to create an account on the BMS Access Support website. This includes your name, date of birth, contact information, and email address.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Fill out the detailed application form, which will ask:

• Personal and household information
• Current medications (including Micardis HCT)
• Your doctor's information
• Insurance details
• Income information and household size
• Information about any financial hardship

Step 4: Submit Required Documents

Once you've completed the online form, you'll upload or submit proof of income and insurance information. The website will guide you through this process.

Step 5: Review and Submit

Carefully review all information for accuracy before submitting. Errors may delay processing.

Step 6: Receive Your Approval Status

The program will notify you via email or mail about your eligibility. If approved, you'll receive details about your benefits and how to use them.

Timeline and What to Expect

Processing Time: Applications typically take 4-8 weeks to process. During this time:

• Your income and insurance information will be verified
• Your doctor may be contacted to confirm your prescription
• You'll receive notification of approval or denial

Delivery of Benefits: Once approved, the method of receiving your assistance varies by program tier. You may receive:

• A co-pay card to use at the pharmacy
• Direct billing arrangements with your pharmacy
• Reimbursement checks

Contact the program if you don't hear back within 8 weeks.

Additional Cost-Saving Options

Even if you don't qualify for this program, other resources may help:

Manufacturer Savings Card

Bristol Myers Squibb offers a savings card for Micardis HCT. Check the manufacturer website for current offers—these can reduce your co-pay even if you have insurance.

State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs

Many states offer their own medication assistance programs. Visit www.pparx.org to find programs in your state.

Patient Assistance from Other Organizations

• NeedyMeds.org: Database of free/low-cost medications
• Partnership for Prescription Assistance: www.pparx.org
• Patient Advocate Foundation: www.patientadvocate.org

Talk to Your Pharmacist

Your pharmacist may know about discounts, generic alternatives, or other assistance programs you haven't considered.

What If Your Application Is Denied?

If you're denied:

1. Review the denial letter carefully for the specific reason
2. Check if you can reapply with corrected information
3. Explore the alternative resources listed above
4. Ask your doctor if there are generic alternatives that may be more affordable
5. Contact the program to understand your next steps

Important Legal Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. The information provided is based on the program details available at the time of writing and is subject to change. For the most current and accurate information about eligibility, application requirements, and program benefits, visit the official BMS Access Support website at https://www.bmsaccesssupport.com/co-pay-financial-assistance.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. If you cannot afford your Micardis HCT, discuss with your doctor—they may have additional suggestions or can recommend alternative treatments.

Bristol Myers Squibb reserves the right to modify or terminate this program at any time. This guide does not guarantee approval or program benefits.