Yervoy

Indicated For

melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal cancer, other solid tumors

About This Medication

# Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Yervoy (ipilimumab) at Low or No Cost Yervoy (ipilimumab) is a prescription immunotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, such as melanoma, by helping your immune system fight cancer cells. The **Bristol Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation (BMSPAF)** offers this drug **free of charge** to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients who meet income and other criteria.[1][2][3] ## About Yervoy (ipilimumab) **Yervoy** is an intravenous infusion medication manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb. It works as a checkpoint inhibitor, blocking a protein called CTLA-4 to unleash your immune system's T-cells against cancer. It's FDA-approved for advanced melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and other cancers, often used alone or with other therapies like Opdivo (nivolumab). Treatment typically involves infusions every 3 weeks for up to 4 doses, then maintenance every 3 months. Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, itching, and immune-related issues like colitis or rash—your doctor will monitor these closely. Always consult your oncologist for personalized advice.[2] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? The BMSPAF helps **U.S. residents 18+** (including Puerto Rico) who are **uninsured or underinsured**, have **limited income and assets**, and lack coverage for Yervoy. You must not qualify for Medicaid (proof of denial may be needed). Government insurance like Medicare Part D patients may qualify if they've spent at least **3% of household income** on out-of-pocket prescriptions this year. Patients on VA, Military, or State programs have specific rules—call to confirm.[3][6][7] **Key eligibility:** - Uninsured/underinsured for the medication. - Household income below BMSPAF limits (based on Federal Poverty Level, typically <400-500% FPL, but exact thresholds vary; call 800-736-0003 for current guidelines).[3] - No high-value assets (e.g., excess savings or property beyond basic needs). - Valid prescription from a U.S. licensed provider.[1][5] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown BMSPAF uses **household size and income** guidelines, often tied to **Federal Poverty Level (FPL)**. Exact percentages aren't fixed publicly and can change, but programs like this typically cover up to **400-500% FPL** for uninsured. Medicare patients need **3% income spent on copays**. Provide **proof of income** (tax returns, pay stubs, etc.). Here's a general example table (confirm current limits by calling 800-736-0003, as they adjust annually): | Household Size | Max Annual Income (est. <400% FPL, 2026) | |----------------|-----------------------------------------| | 1 (Individual) | ~$60,000 | | 2 (Couple) | ~$81,000 | | 3 | ~$102,000 | | 4 | ~$123,000 | | +1 per member | +$21,000 | *Notes: Estimates based on 2026 FPL projections; includes all household income. Assets reviewed separately. Medicare: Add 3% OOP spend proof.*[3][6] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured:** Fully eligible if income/assets qualify.[2] - **Underinsured:** Eligible if insurance doesn't cover Yervoy or copays are unaffordable (e.g., Medicare Part D after 3% income threshold).[3] - **Medicare/Medicaid:** Not eligible for co-pay help, but may qualify here with denial proof. VA/Military: Limited eligibility.[6][7] - **Private insurance:** Check BMS Access Support first for coverage help; if denied, apply to BMSPAF.[4] Government-insured patients often need **independent foundations** if BMSPAF doesn't cover.[3] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Get the form:** Download from bmspaf.org or call **800-736-0003** (M-F, 8am-8pm ET). Provider completes sections too.[1][3] 2. **Fill Section I (Patient):** Personal info, insurance details, household size/income, list medications, sign consent.[3] 3. **Provider fills Sections II-III:** Prescription, diagnosis, shipping address (office or home).[3][5] 4. **Gather documents:** - **Proof of income** (W-2, 1040, pay stubs). - **Prescription** (do **not** attach to form; send separately if required).[5] - Proof of Medicaid denial if applicable.[7] 5. **Submit:** - **Mail:** PO Box 220769, Charlotte, NC 28222-0769 (or Somerville, NJ 08876 per some forms).[3][5][7] - **Fax:** 800-736-1611 (no multiples).[3] - **Phone assist:** 800-736-0003.[1] **Free to apply—no fees.**[3][7] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing:** **5-10 business days** after complete submission; audits may add time.[1][5] - **Approval notice:** Mailed to you/provider.[5] - **Delivery:** **90-day supply** shipped free to **physician office or your home**.[5][6] - Up to **1 year** coverage; **reauthorization required** annually (or Jan for Medicare).[6] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal:** Provide more docs if financial audit requested.[5] - **BMS Access Support:** For insured patients—co-pay cards, coverage help.[4] - **Other foundations:** RxHope, NeedyMeds, or cancer-specific like CancerCare. - **State programs:** Check for medication assistance. - **Generic/biosimilars:** None for Yervoy currently.[6] - Call 800-736-0003 for guidance.[1] ## Refills and Reauthorization Initial 90-day supply; request refills via provider. **Reapply every 12 months** (or Jan for Medicare). Periodic financial audits ensure ongoing eligibility.[5][6] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and based on publicly available data as of 2026. **Program rules, incomes, and addresses change—always verify with BMSPAF at 800-736-0003 or bmspaf.org.** Not medical/financial advice. Consult your doctor for treatment; eligibility not guaranteed. BMSPAF may audit/deny anytime. Free meds up to 1 year; no purchase commitment.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026