Pomalyst

Indicated For

Multiple Myeloma, Kaposi Sarcoma

About This Medication

# A Patient Guide to Getting Pomalyst (pomalidomide) Through the Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF) --- ## Who Qualifies for the Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF)? If you cannot afford Pomalyst (pomalidomide), you may be able to receive it at no cost through the **Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF)**. This program is designed specifically for patients who face financial hardship and lack adequate coverage for their medication. For a single-person household, the maximum annual income allowed is **$90,360**. To qualify, you must be uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicare Part D — and you must meet the program's financial criteria. Patients with full Medicaid coverage are generally not eligible. If you meet these basic requirements, the BMSPAF may be able to provide your Pomalyst at no charge, shipped directly to your home. --- ## About Pomalyst (pomalidomide) Pomalyst (pomalidomide) is a prescription medication manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb. It belongs to a class of drugs known as immunomodulatory agents (IMiDs). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Pomalyst for the treatment of **multiple myeloma** and **Kaposi sarcoma** in adults. Without insurance or financial assistance, Pomalyst can cost tens of thousands of dollars per month, placing it out of reach for many patients. Because of its high list price and the serious nature of the conditions it is prescribed for, Bristol Myers Squibb created the BMSPAF to help eligible patients access this medication without paying out of pocket. --- ## Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown The BMSPAF uses income thresholds set at approximately **600% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** for oncology medications like Pomalyst. The limits below apply to your **total household income**: | Household Size | Maximum Annual Income | |---|---| | 1 person | $90,360 | | 2 persons | $122,640 | | 3 persons | $154,920 | | 4 persons | $187,200 | Income is typically verified using your **most recent federal tax return, W-2, or 1099 forms**. If your tax return does not reflect your current financial situation — for example, if you recently lost a job — you may be able to submit three months of recent pay stubs instead. If your household size is larger than four people, ask the BMSPAF directly about applicable limits by calling **(800) 736-0003**. If your income is above these limits, you may not qualify for the free medication program. However, alternatives exist, and you should still explore options like savings cards or state assistance programs described later in this guide. Program coordinators can sometimes review cases on an individual basis when circumstances are unusual. --- ## Insurance Requirements Explained Your insurance status plays a major role in whether you qualify for BMSPAF. Here is how each situation is typically handled: - **If you are uninsured:** You are a strong candidate for this program. With no insurance coverage at all and income within the limits, you will likely meet the insurance requirement for BMSPAF. - **If you have Medicare Part D:** You may still qualify. BMSPAF does include Medicare Part D patients who meet the financial hardship criteria and have been denied coverage or face a coverage gap for Pomalyst. - **If you have private insurance that covers less than 50% of your costs:** You may be considered underinsured and could be eligible. The program reviews these cases individually. Having a denial letter from your insurer can strengthen your application. - **If you have Medicaid:** Patients with full Medicaid coverage are generally **not eligible** for BMSPAF. If your Medicaid plan has denied coverage for Pomalyst specifically, contact BMSPAF directly to ask about your options. --- ## Step-by-Step: How to Apply Follow these steps to apply for Pomalyst through BMSPAF: 1. **Gather your documents first.** You will need a completed application form with your physician's signature, proof of income (most recent tax return, W-2, or 1099), and a valid prescription for Pomalyst. 2. **Choose your application method.** You can apply online, by phone, or by fax. - **Online:** Visit **[https://www.bmspaf.org/](https://www.bmspaf.org/)** to start your application. - **By phone:** Call **(800) 736-0003** to speak with a program representative who can walk you through the process. - **By fax:** Submit completed documents to **(888) 776-2370**. 3. **Complete the application form.** Your doctor must sign the application. Ask your prescriber's office to assist — many are familiar with this process and may submit the application on your behalf. 4. **Submit all required documents together.** Incomplete applications take longer to process. Make sure your proof of income and prescription are included with the signed application form. 5. **Wait for a decision.** Processing typically takes **2 to 3 business days** after a complete application is received. 6. **Receive confirmation.** You or your doctor's office will be notified of the decision. If approved, your medication will be shipped directly to your home. --- ## What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery Once your complete application is submitted, a decision is typically made within **2 to 3 business days**. You or your physician's office will receive confirmation of approval. If approved, Pomalyst will be **shipped directly to your home address** — you do not need to pick it up at a pharmacy. There is nothing you need to do at delivery other than ensure someone is available to receive the package. Enrollment in BMSPAF is not permanent. You will need to **reauthorize your enrollment annually**. This means submitting updated income documentation and a new physician signature each year. Mark your approval date and plan ahead so there is no gap in your medication supply. --- ## Alternatives If You Don't Qualify If you do not meet BMSPAF's eligibility requirements, you still have options worth exploring: 1. **Generic pomalidomide:** A generic version of pomalidomide is available and may be significantly less expensive than brand-name Pomalyst. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if switching is appropriate for your treatment plan. 2. **Manufacturer savings card:** If you have commercial (private) insurance, you may qualify for a Pomalyst savings card that reduces your out-of-pocket costs. Visit **[https://www.pomalyst.com/financial-support/](https://www.pomalyst.com/financial-support/)** for details. This option is not available to Medicare or Medicaid patients. 3. **State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs):** Many states offer their own drug assistance programs for residents who do not qualify for manufacturer programs. Eligibility and benefits vary by state. 4. **NeedyMeds.org:** This free, independent database at **[https://www.needymeds.org](https://www.needymeds.org)** lists additional patient assistance programs, coupons, and disease-specific funds that may help cover your costs. --- > *This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Eligibility determinations are made solely by Bristol Myers Squibb. Program terms may change — verify current requirements at [https://www.bms.com/patient-and-caregiver-support/patient-assistance-foundation.html](https://www.bms.com/patient-and-caregiver-support/patient-assistance-foundation.html) before applying.* ---

Program information last verified: February 27, 2026