Yervoy

Indicated For

melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, mesothelioma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

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 important drug **free of charge** to eligible uninsured or underinsured patients who meet specific income and other criteria[1][2][3]. ## About Yervoy (ipilimumab) **Yervoy** is an intravenous immunotherapy drug manufactured by Bristol Myers Squibb. It works by blocking a protein called CTLA-4, which unleashes your T-cells (a type of immune cell) to attack and destroy cancer cells more effectively. It's FDA-approved for advanced melanoma, and in combination with other drugs for cancers like renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, and others. Treatment typically involves infusions every 3 weeks for 4 doses, followed by possible maintenance doses. Common side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, itching, and serious immune-related reactions like colitis or hepatitis—always discuss risks with your doctor[1]. This guide explains how to access **Yervoy for free** through BMSPAF, a nonprofit foundation providing Bristol Myers Squibb medicines to those in need. No enrollment fee is required, and approved patients get up to a **90-day supply** shipped free[1][2][4][5]. ## Who Qualifies for BMSPAF? BMSPAF is for **U.S. residents (including Puerto Rico)** aged 18+ who are **uninsured or underinsured** and cannot afford their medications. Key requirements include: - **Low household income** below BMSPAF guidelines (based on Federal Poverty Level, though exact % not specified; proof required)[1][2]. - **No or limited prescription coverage**; excludes most with full private insurance[1]. - **Medicare Part D patients** may qualify if they've spent at least **3% of annual household income** on out-of-pocket prescription costs that year (pharmacy report needed)[1]. - A valid prescription from your treating physician. - Agreement to audits and status updates[1][4]. Meeting these doesn't guarantee approval—BMSPAF reviews case-by-case[1][3]. ## Income Eligibility Breakdown BMSPAF uses **annual household income** limits, considering all sources (wages, Social Security, pensions, child support, etc.). Provide proof like 1040 tax return, W-2s, 1099s, pay stubs, or SSA-1099. Exact FPL % isn't public, but it's needs-based for uninsured/underinsured. Here's a general guide based on typical programs (confirm current limits by calling 800-736-0003, as they adjust yearly)[1][2]: | Household Size | Estimated Max Annual Income (e.g., ~400% FPL, 2026 est.) | |----------------|---------------------------------------------------------| | 1 person | ~$60,000 | | 2 people | ~$81,000 | | 3 people | ~$102,000 | | 4 people | ~$123,000 | | +1 per add'l | +$21,000 | *Notes: These are illustrative; actual thresholds vary. Medicare Part D adds 3% OOP spend rule. Assets may factor in[1][2][5].* ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Ideal candidates—no prescription coverage[1][2]. - **Underinsured**: Limited coverage where you can't afford copays/deductibles. **Medicare Part D** OK if OOP costs ≥3% income[1]. - **Exclusions**: Generally no Medicaid, VA, Military, full private insurance, or state programs covering the med. Provider certifies financial need[1][3][5]. - List all insurance on form (Medicare A/B/D, private, etc.)[1]. ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Download or Request Form**: Get from BMSPAF.org or call **800-736-0003**[1][3][6]. 2. **Patient Section (Section I)**: Fill name, SSN (optional), DOB, address, household size/income, current meds, insurance. Sign agreement/consent[1]. 3. **Gather Documents**: - **Proof of income** (tax return, pay stubs, etc.)[1][2]. - **Prescription** from doctor (attach, don't staple)[1][3]. - Medicare Part D: Pharmacy OOP report if applicable[1]. 4. **Provider Sections (II & III)**: Doctor completes treatment info, certifies need, provides shipping address (office or home). Signs/dates[1][3]. 5. **Submit**: - **Mail**: PO Box 220769, Charlotte, NC 28222-0769 (or older Somerville, NJ addr—use current)[1][2][4]. - **Fax**: 800-736-1611 or 888-776-2370[1][3]. - Phone support: 800-736-0003[1][6]. 6. **Complete Everything**: Missing info delays processing[1][2][4]. **Tip**: Apply early; free process, no charge[1]. ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: **5-10 business days** typical; you'll get mailed notification[1][2][4]. - **Approval**: Up to **1 year** coverage (90-day supplies); **reauthorization** required annually[3][5]. Medicare patients reapply Jan[5]. - **Delivery**: Free ship to **patient home, PO Box, or doctor's office**[1][2][4][5]. Initial 90-day supply, then refills if eligible[4]. ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Appeal**: Contact BMSPAF (800-736-0003) with updated docs[1]. - **Other BMS Programs**: BMS Access Support for insured copay help[7][8][9]. - **RxHope.com** or Needymeds.org for more PAPs. - **State programs**, PAN Foundation, CancerCare, or manufacturer copay cards. - **Patient Access Network (PAN)** or HealthWell Foundation for cancer drugs. - **Biosimilars**: None listed for Yervoy[provided]. - Doctor can explore clinical trials or generics (none yet). ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on available program details as of 2026. **BMSPAF rules can change**; always verify with 800-736-0003 or BMSPAF.org. Not medical/financial advice—consult your doctor and advisor. Approval not guaranteed; program may audit[1][4]. Yervoy has risks; follow prescribing info. Bristol Myers Squibb not liable for guide content.

Program information last verified: March 25, 2026