Revlimid

Indicated For

Multiple Myeloma, Myelodysplastic Syndromes, Mantle Cell Lymphoma, Follicular Lymphoma, Marginal Zone Lymphoma

About This Medication

# A Patient Guide to Getting Revlimid (Lenalidomide) Through the Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation --- ## Who Qualifies for the Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation? If you need Revlimid (lenalidomide) but cannot afford it, you may be able to get it at no cost through the **Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMS PAF)**. This program is designed for patients who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicare Part D without access to the Low Income Subsidy (LIS). For a single-person household, the income limit is **$90,360 per year**. In general, you must not have commercial insurance that adequately covers Revlimid — patients with private insurance that covers most of the cost are typically directed to a separate co-pay card program instead. If you meet the income and insurance requirements, you may qualify to receive Revlimid shipped directly to your home at no charge. --- ## About Revlimid (Lenalidomide) Revlimid (lenalidomide) is an immunomodulatory agent (IMiD) manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb. It is FDA-approved to treat several blood-related cancers, including multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), mantle cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, and marginal zone lymphoma. Because of its complex manufacturing process, specialized distribution requirements, and required safety monitoring program (called REMS), Revlimid carries a very high list price — often exceeding $20,000 per month — placing it out of reach for many patients without insurance or financial help. The BMS Patient Assistance Foundation exists specifically to help eligible patients access this medication without paying that full cost. --- ## Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown The BMS Patient Assistance Foundation uses **600% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)** as its standard income threshold for Revlimid. Your household size determines the maximum income allowed: | Household Size | Max 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 (Form 1040) or, if your income has changed recently, three months of recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, or 1099 statements. If your income is above these limits, you may not automatically be disqualified. BMS may consider **total household medical expenses** when reviewing borderline cases, so it is still worth applying or calling the program directly at **(800) 736-0003** to ask about exceptions. If your household size is larger than four people, the income limit increases with each additional person. Contact the program directly to confirm the threshold for your specific situation. --- ## Insurance Requirements Explained Your insurance status plays a major role in whether you qualify for this program. Here is how each situation is handled: - **If you are uninsured:** You are a strong candidate for the BMS PAF program. Without any drug coverage, you may qualify to receive Revlimid at no cost as long as you meet the income requirements. - **If you have Medicare Part D:** You may still qualify, but only if you are **not** eligible for the Low Income Subsidy (LIS), also called "Extra Help." If you do receive LIS benefits, the program will likely direct you elsewhere, since LIS is intended to cover much of your drug costs. - **If you have private insurance that covers less than 50% of the cost (underinsured):** You may qualify for the PAF program. BMS reviews underinsured cases individually. However, if your commercial plan covers a significant portion, you will more likely be directed to the **Revlimid Co-Pay Card** for insured patients. - **If you have Medicaid:** Medicaid typically covers Revlimid for eligible patients. If Medicaid is covering your medication, you would generally not qualify for this foundation program. Contact BMS directly if your Medicaid coverage is incomplete or limited. --- ## Step-by-Step: How to Apply **1. Gather your documents before you start.** You will need: your most recent federal tax return (Form 1040), proof of income (W-2, 1099, or recent pay stubs), a signed physician attestation, your prescription details for Revlimid, and confirmation of your REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) enrollment. Your doctor's office can help with the physician attestation and REMS confirmation. **2. Choose your application method.** You can apply in one of three ways: - **Online:** Visit **https://www.bmspaf.org/** to complete and submit your application electronically. This is typically the fastest method. - **Phone:** Call **(800) 736-0003** to speak with a program representative who can guide you through the process. - **Fax:** Submit a completed paper application by fax to **(800) 736-1611**. Ask your doctor's office if they can fax on your behalf. **3. Have your prescriber complete their section.** Your physician must sign an attestation confirming your diagnosis, your prescription, and your medical need. Many patients find it easiest to have their oncologist's office coordinate this step. **4. Submit all documents together.** Incomplete applications cause delays. Make sure every required item is included before submitting. **5. Wait for a decision.** Processing typically takes **2 to 3 business days** once all documents are received. --- ## What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery After submitting a complete application, most patients receive a decision within **2 to 3 business days**. If approved, BMS will notify you and your prescriber. Revlimid is **shipped directly to your home** — you do not need to pick it up from a pharmacy or your doctor's office. Make sure someone is available to receive the shipment, as Revlimid requires special handling. Approval through the BMS PAF lasts for one year. Before your approval period ends, you will need to **reauthorize** your enrollment. This means resubmitting updated income documentation and a renewed physician attestation. Your care team or a patient advocate can help you track this deadline so your medication supply is not interrupted. --- ## Alternatives If You Don't Qualify If you do not qualify for the BMS PAF program, you still have options: **1. Generic lenalidomide (biosimilar alternative):** A generic version of lenalidomide is available and may be significantly less expensive than brand-name Revlimid. Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether the generic is appropriate for your treatment plan. **2. Revlimid Co-Pay Card (insured patients):** If you have commercial insurance, you may qualify for the Revlimid savings card, which helps reduce your out-of-pocket co-pay costs. Apply at **https://www.revlimid.com/commercial-copay-card**. **3. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAP):** Many states run their own drug assistance programs, especially for seniors. Search your state's health department website or ask your social worker for local options. **4. NeedyMeds.org:** This free, independent database lists hundreds of patient assistance programs, co-pay help funds, and disease-specific foundations. Visit **https://www.needymeds.org** to search by drug name or condition. --- > *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