Orencia

Indicated For

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

About This Medication

# Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation Inc. Patient Guide: How to Get Orencia (abatacept) at Low or No Cost This guide explains how the **Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF)** can provide **Orencia (abatacept)** free of charge to eligible patients facing financial hardship. Orencia is a biologic medication used to treat certain autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, and this program helps uninsured or underinsured U.S. patients access it without cost if they qualify. ## About Orencia (abatacept) **Orencia (abatacept)** is an intravenous or subcutaneous infusion medication that helps reduce inflammation and joint damage in adults and children with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA), polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA), or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) when other treatments haven't worked well enough. It works by modulating the immune system to prevent it from attacking healthy joints. Administered by a healthcare provider every 4 weeks after initial doses, Orencia can significantly improve quality of life, but its high list price—often tens of thousands per year—makes it inaccessible for many without assistance. The BMSPAF, an independent charitable organization supported by Bristol Myers Squibb, offers Orencia through its patient assistance program specifically for those who meet strict financial and insurance criteria. This temporary help bridges gaps when patients can't afford their therapy. ## Who Qualifies? Eligibility focuses on financial need, lack of insurance coverage, and U.S. residency. Key requirements include: - Being a U.S. resident aged 18 or older (or with parental/guardian consent for minors). - Having a valid prescription for Orencia from a licensed U.S. healthcare provider. - Meeting household income limits set by the Foundation (typically based on Federal Poverty Level, though exact figures aren't publicly detailed here—call for current thresholds). - No or limited prescription drug coverage, with special rules for Medicare Part D. Programs like this prioritize patients in true financial distress, ensuring medicine reaches those who need it most. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown The BMSPAF does not publish fixed income thresholds online, as they adjust annually based on Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG). Applicants must attest that their **yearly household income is below the Foundation’s limits**. Contact the program at 800-736-0003 for personalized verification. Here's a general example table based on typical patient assistance structures (confirm with BMSPAF for 2026 FPG): | Household Size | Estimated Max Income (300-400% FPG) | |----------------|-------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$45,000 - $60,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$60,000 - $80,000 | | 3 | ~$75,000 - $100,000 | | 4 | ~$90,000 - $120,000 | | +1 per member | +$15,000 - $20,000 | **Notes**: Include all household income sources. No assets test mentioned, but proof like tax returns may be requested. ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients**: Must have **no prescription insurance coverage** for Orencia. - **Medicare Part D patients**: Eligible **only if you've spent at least 3% of your yearly household income** on out-of-pocket prescription costs this year. Provide proof of expenses. - Commercial insurance patients may not qualify for free medicine here; explore **Orencia On Call™** co-pay cards (as low as $5/month for eligible commercially insured, up to $15,000/year cap) via 1-800-ORENCIA. Patients with any coverage paying for Orencia typically don't qualify for BMSPAF free drug. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get a Prescription**: Ask your doctor to prescribe Orencia and complete the prescriber section of the BMSPAF application, including dose, frequency, and treatment dates. 2. **Download or Request Form**: Get the free application from bmspaf.org, rxhope.com, or call **800-736-0003** (Mon-Fri, 8am-8pm ET). 3. **Fill Out Patient Section**: Provide personal details, household income, insurance status, and shipping address (must be a **healthcare facility**, not home or P.O. Box). 4. **Gather Documents**: Attach proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns), proof of no/low insurance (e.g., denial letter), and prescription. For reauthorization, include dates of prior treatments. 5. **Prescriber Signs**: Doctor certifies medical necessity and provides state license. 6. **Submit**: Mail to **Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation, PO Box 220769, Charlotte, NC 28222-0769** or **Fax: 800-736-1611**. Multiple methods accepted; phone for case # if reapplying. **Tip**: Complete **every section**—missing info delays processing. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: Typically **0-1 week** if complete. - **Delivery**: Shipped **free to your doctor's office or authorized facility** (not directly to home). Pick up and administer there. - **Supply Duration**: Often 1-3 months initially; reapply for refills. Track via phone with your case number. ## Alternatives if Denied - **Orencia On Call™**: For commercially insured—co-pay as low as $5/month (1-800-673-6242). - **BMS Access Support**: Benefits investigation, prior auth help (bmsaccesssupport.com). - **Other PAPs**: PAN Foundation, HealthWell Foundation (search rxhope.com or needymeds.org). - **Medicare Extra Help**: Low-income subsidy for Part D. - **State Programs**: Check Medicaid or 340B clinics. - **Patient Advocacy**: NeedyMeds, RxAssist for more options. ## Reauthorization **Reauthorization is required**. Resubmit application with updated income/insurance proof and prior treatment dates before supply runs out. ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available data as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and addresses may change—**always verify with BMSPAF at 800-736-0003**. Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment decisions. BMSPAF provides temporary assistance; long-term solutions vary. Bristol Myers Squibb and affiliates disclaim liability for application outcomes.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026