Abecma

Indicated For

relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma

About This Medication

# Cell Therapy 360 Patient Assistance Program Patient Guide: How to Get Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel) at Low or No Cost Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel) is a specialized CAR T cell therapy for adults with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma after at least two prior treatments, including an immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody.[8] The **Cell Therapy 360 Patient Assistance Program** from **Bristol Myers Squibb** helps eligible uninsured or underinsured patients access Abecma at low or no cost by addressing financial barriers for this complex therapy.[1][6] ## About Abecma and CAR T Cell Therapy Abecma is a **BCMA-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy**, meaning your own T cells are collected, genetically altered in a lab to target cancer cells expressing B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), and infused back into you to fight multiple myeloma.[8] This one-time treatment is administered at a certified CAR T cell therapy center after leukapheresis (cell collection), manufacturing (about 4-6 weeks), and conditioning chemotherapy.[1][2] **Important risks** include cytokine release syndrome (CRS), neurologic toxicities, and infections—your treatment team will monitor you closely, especially during the first weeks post-infusion.[4] Cell Therapy 360 provides a dedicated **Patient Support Navigator** available 24/7 to guide you through every step, from enrollment to post-infusion monitoring.[1][3][5] ## Who Qualifies for the Program? This program targets patients with **financial need** who are **uninsured** or have **insurance that excludes CAR T cell therapy coverage** (functionally uninsured for Abecma).[6] It's **needs-based** with no fixed income thresholds listed (e.g., Federal Poverty Level percentage), so cases are evaluated individually based on proof of financial hardship.[6] U.S. residents (including Puerto Rico) prescribed Abecma by a licensed provider at a certified center qualify if they meet these criteria.[6] **Separate Copay Assistance** is available for **commercially insured patients** (excluding government programs like Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, VA) to cover out-of-pocket costs.[1][3] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income limits aren't publicly detailed; eligibility hinges on demonstrating **financial need**. Contact the program for a personalized assessment. Here's a general overview: | Household Size | Typical Threshold Example (if FPL-based, varies by program) | Notes | |---------------|------------------------------------------------------------|-------| | Individual | Not specified; case-by-case | Proof of income/residency required[6] | | Couple | Not specified; case-by-case | Financial need assessed holistically | | Family of 3 | Not specified; case-by-case | No fixed FPL % published | | Family of 4+ | Not specified; case-by-case | Evaluated individually | **Additional perks** for eligible patients: transportation, lodging near the treatment center, and meal support for you and a care partner.[1][3] ## Insurance Requirements - **Uninsured patients**: Fully eligible with financial need proof.[6] - **Insured but no CAR T coverage**: Qualifies as 'functionally uninsured'.[6] - **Commercially insured**: Use the Copay Program (not for government insurance).[1][3] - **Medicare/Medicaid/TRICARE/VA**: Ineligible for copay aid; explore other options.[3] Prior authorization (PA) support is available, including coverage lookup tools and appeal letters.[4] ## Step-by-Step Application Process 1. **Confirm prescription**: Discuss Abecma with your doctor at a certified CAR T center.[5] 2. **Call to enroll**: Dial **(888) 805-4555** (24/7, press 1 for patient support).[1][3][5] Your Patient Support Navigator will assess eligibility. 3. **Submit documents**: Provide **proof of financial need** (e.g., tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements) and **insurance information** (or proof of denial/exclusion).[6] 4. **Treatment center coordination**: Once approved, Abecma ships directly to your authorized center—no home delivery.[6] 5. **Opt into extras**: Request travel/lodging/meal support if eligible.[1] Applications are handled **by phone**; no online form specified.[6] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Processing time**: Not specified—call for details, but cell manufacturing takes ~4-6 weeks post-collection.[1] - **Delivery**: Shipped to your certified treatment center for infusion.[6] - **Full journey support**: From cell collection through at least 4 weeks post-infusion monitoring.[10] Your Navigator coordinates logistics seamlessly.[3] ## Alternatives if Denied - **Appeal**: Work with your Navigator for PA appeals or medical necessity letters.[4] - **Other assistance**: Bristol Myers Squibb oncology programs, state charities, or nonprofits like MMRF.[10] - **Copay program**: If commercially insured.[1] - **Manufacturer contact**: Reapply if circumstances change by calling (888) 805-4555.[3] - **No biosimilars** available for Abecma.[6] ## Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical or financial advice. Eligibility, benefits, and terms can change; confirm with Cell Therapy 360 at (888) 805-4555. Bristol Myers Squibb reserves the right to modify or cancel the program. Always consult your healthcare provider. Data current as of available resources; individual results vary.[1][6]

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026