Zelboraf

Indicated For

BRAF V600E melanoma, Erdheim-Chester Disease

About This Medication

# Genentech Patient Foundation Patient Guide: How to Get Zelboraf (vemurafenib) at Low or No Cost Zelboraf (vemurafenib) is a targeted therapy medication used to treat certain types of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer with the BRAF V600E mutation. The **Genentech Patient Foundation** helps eligible patients in the US get Zelboraf free if they meet income and insurance criteria.[1][2][6] ## About Zelboraf (vemurafenib) **Zelboraf** is an oral prescription medicine approved for adults and children 12 years and older with unresectable or metastatic melanoma positive for the BRAF V600E mutation, as detected by an FDA-approved test. It works by blocking the activity of the mutated BRAF protein, which can help slow cancer growth. Common side effects include joint pain, rash, hair loss, nausea, and sensitivity to sunlight. Always take it exactly as prescribed and report side effects to your doctor. This program provides the medicine at no cost to qualified patients but does not cover doctor visits, tests, or other costs.[1][6] ## Who Qualifies for the Genentech Patient Foundation? Eligibility depends on your **insurance status** and **household income**. The program serves US residents treated by US-licensed physicians—no citizenship proof needed. There are three main groups:[6][9][10] 1. **Uninsured patients** (no health insurance): Must have household income under **$150,000** per year. 2. **Insured without coverage for Zelboraf**: Similar income limits apply. 3. **Insured with coverage for Zelboraf** but high costs: Your out-of-pocket maximum must exceed **7.5% of yearly household income**, and income must fit guidelines. **Notes**: Insured patients should first pursue other assistance (like appeals or copay programs). Not for government-reimbursed prescriptions (e.g., Medicare Part A/B, Medicaid, VA). Some exceptions may apply—call to confirm.[1][4][6] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific Federal Poverty Level (FPL) percentages aren't listed, but income is evaluated based on household size and insurance. Use the online tool or call (888) 941-3331 to check. Here's a simplified overview:[6][9] | Household Size | Uninsured Max Income | Insured w/ Coverage (if OOP >7.5% income) | |---------------|----------------------|--------------------------------------------| | 1 | Under $150,000 | Under $150,000 + OOP check | | 2 | Under $150,000 | Under $150,000 + OOP check | | 3+ | Under $150,000 | Under $150,000 + OOP check | *Income under $150,000 is a key threshold; exact limits vary. Provide household size, income, and insurance details on forms.[5][6] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured**: Eligible if income qualifies. - **Commercially insured without Zelboraf coverage**: Eligible. - **Insured with coverage**: Must prove unaffordable (e.g., high deductible/out-of-pocket max >7.5% income). Exhaust other options first. - **Medicare/Medicaid**: Generally ineligible for foundation medicine; copay help may be separate. - No proof of insurance denial needed, but appeals can run parallel.[4][6][8] ## Step-by-Step Application Process Applying is straightforward with **multiple methods**. Both forms must be submitted together—no action until received.[1][6] 1. **Complete Patient Consent Form**: Fill out online (English/Spanish) at gene.com/patients/enrollment. Include name, DOB, address, household size, income, insurance details. Sign Box 1 & 2.[1][5] 2. **Doctor completes Prescriber Foundation Form**: Provide to your prescriber (Page 2). Confirm diagnosis, Zelboraf prescription.[6] 3. **Submit both forms**: - **Online**: eSubmit or My Patient Solutions (for practices).[1] - **Text photo**: 650-877-1111.[1] - **Fax**: 833-999-4363.[1][6] - **Phone help**: (888) 249-4918 or (888) 941-3331 (Mon-Fri, 6am-5pm PT).[4] 4. **Foundation reviews**: Processed in **5 business days**.[1] 5. **Get contacted**: Patient and doctor notified of outcome/next steps.[1][7] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing**: 5 business days after both forms received.[1] - **Approval notification**: Call/email to you and prescriber. - **Delivery**: Free Zelboraf shipped to your home or doctor's office. One year of medicine provided; continues if you stay eligible—no re-enrollment needed.[8] - **Refills**: Automatic if qualified; prescriber may need to confirm ongoing need.[8] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal insurance denial**: Apply while appealing—no proof needed.[4] - **Other Genentech support**: Copay assistance via Genentech Access Solutions if commercially insured.[5] - **State programs**: Foundation Specialists can suggest local options.[4] - **Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation** or similar nonprofits. - **Call (888) 941-3331** for personalized guidance. ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes based on publicly available program details as of 2026. Eligibility, terms, and forms can change—always verify with Genentech at (888) 249-4918 or gene.com/patients/patient-foundation. Not medical advice; consult your doctor. Genentech does not guarantee approval. Program not for government-insured patients.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026