RUKOBIA

ViiV Healthcare Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get RUKOBIA (fostemsavir) at Low or No Cost

RUKOBIA (fostemsavir), an antiretroviral medication from ViiV Healthcare, helps treat HIV-1 in adults and children when other treatments fail or aren't suitable. The ViiV Healthcare Patient Assistance Program (PAP) provides this vital drug at no cost to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients facing financial hardship[1][4][5].

About RUKOBIA (fostemsavir)

RUKOBIA is an oral HIV-1 integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI) attachment inhibitor used in heavily treatment-experienced adults with multidrug-resistant HIV-1. It works by blocking the virus from entering and infecting CD4 cells, helping to reduce viral load and increase CD4 counts. It's typically taken as two 600 mg extended-release tablets twice daily with food. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, and headache—always discuss with your doctor[5]. This program focuses on oral medications like RUKOBIA, ensuring access for those who qualify[5].

Who Qualifies for the Program?

The program is designed for patients struggling to afford their HIV medications. Key eligibility includes:

• Residing in the 50 U.S. states, District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico.
• Being uninsured or underinsured (e.g., Medicare Part A, B, D, or Medicare Advantage patients meeting requirements).
• Meeting financial income criteria (detailed below).
• Not enrolled in AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), Medicaid, Puerto Rico Government Health Plan, or other federal/state-funded plans (except Medicare).
• Having a valid prescription from your doctor.

Patients under 18 need a parent or legal guardian to sign[1][5].

Income Eligibility Breakdown

Eligibility is based on household gross income at or below specific thresholds, roughly 500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). If your income exceeds limits, you may still qualify by showing high medical expenses—contact the program for details[5][6].

Here's the breakdown for 48 states and DC (thresholds may differ for Alaska/Hawaii; call to confirm)[5]:

Notes: Income includes all household earnings before taxes. Provide proof like tax returns or pay stubs. Medicare Part D patients may need to show $600+ spent on drugs this year[6].

Insurance Requirements

• Uninsured patients: Primary candidates—get RUKOBIA shipped free if eligible[1][4].
• Medicare patients: Eligible for Parts A, B, D, or Advantage if meeting income criteria and other rules (e.g., no ADAP). Medicare Part D enrollees apply via mail/fax first[1][6].
• Underinsured: Commercial insurance gaps may qualify via ViiVConnect, but PAP is for no-cost meds[2][3].
• Exclusions: No Medicaid, ADAP, or government plans (except Medicare)[1][5].

This program does not constitute health insurance and is subject to change[1][4].

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying is straightforward—start by phone for fastest help. Here's how:

1. Get a Prescription: Ask your doctor for RUKOBIA. They'll complete part of the enrollment form[5][6].

2. Call the Program: Dial 1-844-588-3288 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-8 PM ET). Language assistance available. An advocate can enroll you same-day if urgent and non-Medicare Part D[1][6].

3. Complete Enrollment Form: Download the Oral Medication Enrollment Form (English/Spanish) from viivpap.org or gskpaf.org. Patient and doctor sign/date it. Include:

   • Proof of income (tax return, W-2, pay stubs).
   • Front/back of insurance cards (if any).
   • Prescription[3][5][6].

4. Submit: Fax to 1-844-208-7676 or mail per form instructions. Or email Patient Enrollment Form to info@viivconnectportal.com for initial review[3].

5. Follow Up: An Access Coordinator contacts you in a few days to guide next steps[3].

Pro Tip: Use ViiVConnect (viivconnect.com) to check insurance coverage first—it links to PAP[2].

Timeline and Delivery

• Processing: Varies—phone enrollment can be quick for non-Medicare; Medicare Part D via mail/fax takes longer. Expect coordinator contact in days[3][6].
• Supply: Up to 90-day supply per shipment[6].
• Delivery: Medication shipped free to your home (or doctor's office if specified)[6].
• Refills: Automatic if eligible; reauthorization may apply annually or as needed[1].

Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible

• ViiVConnect Savings Card: For insured patients—pay as low as $0 copay[4][7].
• State ADAP: If eligible, covers HIV meds[1].
• RxHope or NeedyMeds: Search other PAPs.
• Manufacturer Copay Programs: Via viivconnect.com[2][8].
• Appeal: Contact program to discuss medical expenses or errors.

Don't give up—your coordinator can explore options[9].

Important Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of latest sources. Eligibility, terms, and income limits can change—always verify by calling 1-844-588-3288. Not health insurance; consult your doctor for medical advice. ViiV Healthcare and GSK Patient Access Programs Foundation operate independently. For full terms, visit viivpap.org or gskpaf.org[1][4][5]. (Word count: 1028)