Eliquis is a medication often prescribed to prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke in patients with certain conditions. These conditions include atrial fibrillation (AFib), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). Blood clots can be very dangerous, as they can travel to the brain, causing a stroke, or to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.
For people with these conditions, Eliquis can be a life-saving drug, but most patients often have trouble affording it. According to a report by Patients for Affordable Drugs, the price that most patients paid for blood thinners (including Eliquis) skyrotted during the pandemic. In 2020, patients on Medicare Part D spent a total of $9.9 billion on Eliquis alone.
The list price for Eliquis is $594. However, the Eliquis website says most people don’t pay this amount. The cost depends on their health coverage: people with commercial insurance might pay up to $38 a month, Medicare patients up to $55 a month, and Medicaid patients up to $2 a month. Even these lower prices can be too high for some, so we list resources on our website that make the medication more affordable.
We receive numerous calls and website visits from individuals seeking assistance with Eliquis. One common story we hear is from patients on Medicare Part D. They often find themselves ineligible for the manufacturer coupons that can lower the cost of Eliquis for those with commercial insurance. This is due to the Anti-Kickback Statute of 1972, which prevents pharmaceutical companies from offering discounts that Medicare might cover, even if the cost remains high for patients. This means that Medicare patients can’t use the Eliquis coupon that allows commercially insured patients to pay only $10. This can be a significant obstacle for many, leaving them searching for other ways to afford their medication.
Here are some programs we usually suggest to people who need help paying for this drug:
Medicare Part D Extra Help Program
The Medicare Part D Extra Help Program, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) program, helps Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources pay for their prescription drugs. Those who qualify for Extra Help can get assistance with premiums, deductibles, and copayments, significantly reducing the cost of medications like Eliquis.
Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer Patient Assistance Program
This program provides Eliquis at no cost to eligible patients based on income and lack of prescription insurance coverage. Patients need to provide proof of income and their insurance status to qualify. The application process can be done online or by mail, and once approved, patients receive their medication directly from the program. Visit our website to find out more information about this program.
Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation
The PAN Foundation offers disease-specific funds that can help cover the cost of medications like Eliquis. These funds are based on availability and can change, so it’s important to apply as soon as possible. If you want to learn more about the PAN Foundation, register for a webinar here. Join to learn about the types of financial assistance they offer, eligibility criteria, how to apply for a grant, and more!
HealthWell Foundation
The HealthWell Foundation also offers disease-specific funds that fluctuate based on availability. They provide financial assistance to patients who cannot afford their copayments, premiums, or other out-of-pocket costs. To learn more about the Healthwell foundation and how they can help, register for a webinar here. Sign up today to learn more about their programs that provide copay and premium assistance across 90 disease areas.
If you or someone you know needs help with affording Eliquis, please visit our website. Our website provides detailed information on each program, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and contact information. We also offer a toll-free helpline (800-503-6897) where our representatives can assist you with navigating these options.
