The BMS Access Support Program: Who Qualifies and How to Apply
Bristol-Myers Squibb offers a free medication program — BMS Access Support — that can provide Eliquis at no cost to patients who can't afford it. For patients who qualify, this is one of the most valuable patient assistance programs in the pharmaceutical industry.
But the program has eligibility requirements, documentation hurdles, and a renewal process that many patients aren't aware of. This guide explains everything you need to know.
What Is BMS Access Support?
BMS Access Support is Bristol-Myers Squibb's umbrella patient assistance initiative, covering several of their medications including Eliquis. For Eliquis specifically, the program can provide the medication free of charge — shipped directly to you or your doctor's office.
The program is funded by BMS and administered either directly or through contracted specialty pharmacies. It is separate from the Eliquis copay card program, which only helps patients with commercial insurance.
Who Qualifies?
BMS uses income-based eligibility criteria. While the exact thresholds can change, generally:
- Uninsured patients with incomes up to approximately 400–500% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Underinsured patients whose insurance doesn't adequately cover Eliquis
- Patients who have been denied coverage by their insurance plan
For reference, 400% FPL in 2025 is approximately:
- $58,320 for a household of 1
- $79,080 for a household of 2
- $99,840 for a household of 3
Some patients above these thresholds may still qualify in exceptional circumstances, particularly if their insurance rejection creates a documented hardship.
What You'll Need to Apply
The BMS Access Support application typically requires:
- A valid prescription for Eliquis from your doctor
- Proof of income — recent tax return, pay stubs, or a signed attestation if no documented income
- Insurance information — or documentation confirming you are uninsured
- Your doctor's signature on a provider attestation form
Your doctor's office is a key part of the process. BMS requires that prescribers confirm the medical necessity of the medication and participate in the application. This is one of the reasons having a navigator helps — practices are busy, and applications that come in organized tend to move faster.
How Long Does It Take?
For straightforward applications, BMS Access Support approvals typically come within 7–14 business days. Complex cases — insurance denials that require additional documentation, income verification issues — can take longer.
Once approved, you'll receive a 90-day supply, with renewals available before each supply runs out. You'll need to re-verify eligibility annually.
The Renewal Process
This is where many patients fall through the cracks. BMS requires annual income re-verification and a new prescription. Patients who miss the renewal deadline can face a gap in their medication supply.
ClariMeds manages renewal proactively — we track expiration dates and initiate the re-enrollment process before your supply runs out.
How to Apply
Option 1: Apply directly. Call BMS Access Support at 1-800-736-0003 or visit their website at BMSAccessSupport.com. You'll be walked through the application over the phone or online.
Option 2: Apply through ClariMeds. We handle the entire application for you — gathering documents, completing forms, coordinating with your doctor's office, and following up until you're approved. Start here.
What If You're Denied?
Denials from BMS Access Support are not always final. Common reasons for initial denial include incomplete documentation, income calculations that don't account for household size, or timing issues with insurance coverage.
ClariMeds reviews denial reasons and, in many cases, can successfully appeal or identify an alternative program that covers Eliquis.
Don't give up after a first denial — contact us and we'll take a second look.