Plavix

Indicated For

acute coronary syndrome, stroke prevention, peripheral arterial disease

About This Medication

# Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation Guide: How to Get Plavix at Low or No Cost ## About This Program The Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMS PAF) helps uninsured and underinsured patients access Plavix (clopidogrel) at no cost or reduced cost. Plavix is an important antiplatelet medication prescribed to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndrome, stroke prevention needs, or peripheral arterial disease. If you've been prescribed Plavix but are struggling to afford it, this patient assistance program may help. Read on to learn if you qualify and how to apply. ## What Is Plavix and Why Is It Important? Plavix (clopidogrel) is a P2Y12 inhibitor—a medication that works by preventing platelets in your blood from sticking together and forming dangerous clots. Your doctor prescribed Plavix because you have a condition that puts you at risk for heart attack or stroke, or you've already experienced one of these events. Regularly taking Plavix as prescribed is critical to your health. Missing doses or stopping this medication without medical guidance can increase your risk of serious complications. If cost is preventing you from taking your medication, the Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation exists to help. ## Who Qualifies? You may qualify for the BMS Patient Assistance Foundation program if you meet ALL of the following criteria: **Insurance Status:** - You do NOT have prescription drug coverage through Medicaid - You do NOT have prescription drug coverage through any other public health program - You do NOT have prescription drug coverage through any private insurance plan If you have any form of prescription drug insurance, you typically will not qualify for this program. However, if your insurance has very high copays or deductibles, speak with a BMS patient advocate about your specific situation—exceptions may apply. **Financial Need:** You must demonstrate financial hardship. While specific income thresholds vary based on individual circumstances, the program uses household size and income to determine eligibility. ### Income Eligibility Reference Table This table shows approximate maximum household income levels for different family sizes. Individual circumstances vary, so these are guidelines only: | Household Size | Approximate Maximum Annual Income | |---|---| | 1 person | Varies by circumstances | | 2 people | Varies by circumstances | | 3 people | Varies by circumstances | | 4 people | Varies by circumstances | | 5+ people | Varies by circumstances | *Note: Income limits vary based on your specific situation. BMS will review your complete financial picture, including expenses, assets, and debts. You will not be automatically disqualified if your income exceeds these guidelines—contact BMS to discuss your circumstances.* **Residency:** - You must be a U.S. resident - You must be able to provide proof of residency ## What You'll Need to Apply Before you start the application, gather these documents: 1. **A Valid Prescription** - An original prescription from your doctor for Plavix 2. **Proof of Financial Hardship** - This may include: - Recent tax returns (last 1-2 years) - Recent pay stubs or proof of income - Bank statements - Bills showing your monthly expenses - Letter explaining your financial situation 3. **Proof of Residency** - One of the following: - Driver's license or state ID - Utility bill - Lease or mortgage agreement - Recent mail from a government agency 4. **Proof of No Insurance Coverage** - Documentation showing: - You are not covered by Medicaid - You are not covered by any private health insurance with prescription benefits - This might be a letter from your insurance company or proof of denial Having these documents ready will speed up your application process. ## How to Apply: Step-by-Step Instructions ### Step 1: Gather Your Documents Collect all required documents listed above. Make copies of everything. ### Step 2: Visit the Program Website Go to **https://www.bmspaf.org** to learn more and begin the application process. The website provides detailed eligibility information and allows you to apply online. ### Step 3: Complete the Application You have multiple application methods available: - **Online Application**: Complete the full application on the BMS PAF website - **Phone Application**: Call to speak with a representative who can help you apply over the phone - **Paper Application**: Request a paper form to complete by mail or fax Choose the method most convenient for you. If you need help understanding any questions, program representatives are available to assist. ### Step 4: Submit Your Documents Include copies of all required documents with your application. Do not send original documents—BMS will only accept copies. ### Step 5: Wait for a Decision BMS will review your application and contact you within **2-4 weeks** to let you know if you've been approved. ### Step 6: Receive Your Medication Once approved, Plavix will be shipped either directly to your home or to your doctor's office. BMS will coordinate the delivery details with you. Most patients begin receiving medication within a few days of approval. ## Timeline and Delivery **Processing Time**: Your application will be reviewed and you'll receive a decision within **2-4 weeks**. **Delivery**: Once approved, your Plavix will be shipped to your home or your doctor's office, whichever you prefer. Coordinate this with the BMS representative during approval. **Refills**: You will need to reauthorize annually. BMS will remind you when it's time to renew. ## Financial Assistance Options If you don't qualify for the patient assistance program, or while waiting for approval, consider these alternatives: ### BMS Access Support Savings Card Visit **https://www.bmsaccesssupport.com/co-pay-financial-assistance** to see if you qualify for a savings card that can reduce your copays even if you have insurance. This card can sometimes bring your copay down to as little as $0-$10 per prescription. ### Medicare and Other Insurance If you have any form of insurance, even with high copays, you must use your insurance first. The assistance program is only for truly uninsured patients. ### Other Resources - **NeedyMeds.org**: Searchable database of additional assistance programs - **Patient Advocate Foundation**: Provides information about copay assistance programs - **Heart.org and Stroke.org**: Organizations that may have additional resources for heart and stroke patients - **211.org**: Connects you to local community health resources ## What Happens if Your Application Is Denied? If you're denied, you have options: 1. **Ask Why**: BMS will explain why you didn't qualify. Common reasons include having insurance coverage or income above the limit. 2. **Appeal or Reapply**: If your circumstances have changed, you can reapply. If you believe there was an error, ask about the appeal process. 3. **Explore Alternatives**: Ask your doctor about: - Generic versions of similar medications that might be less expensive - Whether Plavix is absolutely necessary or if another medication could work - Free samples the doctor's office might have - Local community health centers with reduced-cost programs 4. **Contact Patient Advocates**: BMS has patient advocates who can discuss your specific situation and explore options you might not have considered. ## Reauthorization and Ongoing Support Your eligibility must be **renewed annually**. BMS will contact you before your authorization expires and guide you through the reauthorization process. It's important to respond promptly so your medication supply doesn't run out. Keep your prescriptions current by seeing your doctor regularly. Your doctor needs to confirm that you still require Plavix and should write new prescriptions annually. ## Important Reminders - **Never stop taking Plavix without talking to your doctor**, even if you're having trouble affording it. Stopping suddenly can be dangerous. - **Always use your insurance first** if you have any form of prescription drug coverage. The assistance program is for uninsured patients only. - **Be honest on your application**. Financial information is confidential and helps BMS understand your true need. - **Keep your doctor informed** about using this program. Your doctor should know you're getting medication through patient assistance. - **Don't wait to apply** if you need help affording Plavix. The sooner you apply, the sooner you can get the medication you need. ## Questions? For more information, visit **https://www.bmspaf.org** or speak with a patient advocate at BMS. They can answer specific questions about your situation and help guide you through the application process. Your health is important. If cost is preventing you from taking your prescribed medication, reach out for help today.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026