Valcyte

Indicated For

CMV retinitis, CMV infection, HIV, transplant

About This Medication

# Genentech Patient Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Valcyte (valganciclovir) at Low or No Cost Valcyte (valganciclovir) is an antiviral medication used to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections in people with weakened immune systems, such as transplant recipients or those with HIV/AIDS. The **Genentech Patient Foundation** provides free Valcyte to eligible patients without insurance or with financial hardship who meet specific income criteria.[1][2] ## About Valcyte and Why Assistance Matters **Valcyte** helps prevent and treat CMV, a serious virus that can damage eyes, lungs, and other organs in immunocompromised patients. Without treatment, CMV can lead to vision loss or life-threatening complications. However, Valcyte can be expensive, often costing thousands per month without insurance or coverage. The Genentech Patient Foundation steps in to offer it at no cost for those who qualify, easing the financial burden so you can focus on your health.[1][2][4] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? Eligibility focuses on insurance status and income. The program helps: - People **without insurance** or without coverage for Valcyte. - Insured patients facing financial concerns who exhaust other assistance options. You must reside in the US and be treated by a US-licensed physician. Government programs like Medicare or Medicaid typically disqualify you, as do certain employer-required Alternative Funding Programs (AFPs).[1][3][7] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds aren't publicly detailed but are based on federal poverty level (FPL) guidelines, varying by insurance status. Uninsured patients face different criteria than insured ones without Valcyte coverage. Genentech verifies all information and reserves the right to adjust.[1][3] Here's a general guide based on common patient assistance structures (contact the Foundation for your exact limits): | Household Size | Uninsured Max Income (est. 400-500% FPL) | Insured w/o Coverage (est. 200-400% FPL) | |----------------|------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000-$75,000/year | ~$30,000-$60,000/year | | 2 (Couple) | ~$80,000-$100,000/year | ~$40,000-$80,000/year | | 3 | ~$100,000-$125,000/year | ~$50,000-$100,000/year | | 4 | ~$120,000-$150,000/year | ~$60,000-$120,000/year | *Notes: Estimates only; actual thresholds confirmed during application. Income includes all household sources. Call (888) 941-3331 for precise details.[1][3]* ## Insurance Requirements - **No insurance or no Valcyte coverage?** Primary option—meet income criteria for free medicine.[1] - **Commercial insurance?** Try co-pay programs first (via Genentech Access Solutions at (877) 436-3683), then Foundation if needed.[4][7] - **Medicare/Medicaid/government insurance?** Not eligible; explore other resources.[3] - Insured patients must pursue other aid before Foundation approval.[3] Genentech Access Solutions helps navigate coverage: (877) GENENTECH (6 a.m.–5 p.m. PT, Mon-Fri).[4][5] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm eligibility**: Discuss with your doctor. Call Foundation at **(888) 941-3331** (Mon-Fri, 6 a.m.–5 p.m. PT) or visit gene.com/patients/patient-foundation.[1] 2. **Gather documents**: Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs), insurance status (card/denial letter), prescription, doctor's info.[1] 3. **Complete application**: Doctor/patient submits via phone, fax (**(833) 999-4363**), or online form. Include consent.[1][4] 4. **Submit and wait**: Genentech reviews; they verify details.[1] 5. **Approval notification**: Via mail/phone; medicine ships if approved. Your doctor’s office often handles much of this—ask them to start.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery Processing typically takes 1-2 weeks, but urgent cases may be faster. Once approved, Valcyte ships directly to your home or doctor’s office via specialty pharmacy. Refills require reauthorization periodically.[1][4] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Provide more info if income/insurance misverified.[1] - **Co-pay programs**: For commercial insurance via Genentech Access Solutions.[4][7] - **Independent foundations**: Genentech refers based on condition (no endorsement).[3] - **Generic valganciclovir**: Cheaper option if available; discuss with doctor. - **State programs/clinics**: Local resources for low-income patients. - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or similar for CMV-related aid. Call (877) GENENTECH for personalized options.[4] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. Program details, eligibility, and availability can change. Genentech reserves rights to modify/discontinue. Not valid for government-reimbursed prescriptions. Always verify with Genentech Patient Foundation at (888) 941-3331 or gene.com. Consult your doctor for medical advice. Not a substitute for professional guidance.[1][3][7] *Word count: ~950*

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026