Scemblix (asciminib)
Patient Assistance Program Guide — Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)
Do You Qualify?
Income
Up to $75,300 for a single person
Insurance
Uninsured, underinsured, or Medicare Part D patients who meet financial criteria and have no other coverage for the medication.
Residency
Must live in the United States, Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands.
Income Limits (500% FPL)
Income threshold for oncology products is typically 500% FPL; amounts calculated based on 2025 HHS guidelines.
Based on 2025 HHS Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
# How to Get Scemblix (Asciminib) for Free or at Low Cost Through the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation
---
Who Qualifies for the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF)?
If you have been prescribed Scemblix (asciminib) and cannot afford it, the Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) may be able to provide it at no cost to you. This program is designed specifically for patients who meet financial and insurance criteria. For a single-person household, the maximum annual income allowed is $75,300. To be eligible, you must be uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicare Part D — and you must have no other insurance coverage that pays for Scemblix. If you meet these criteria, the NPAF may supply your medication at little or no cost while you remain enrolled in the program.
---
About Scemblix (Asciminib)
Scemblix (asciminib) is a prescription medication manufactured by Novartis. It is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat adults with Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (Ph+ CML) in chronic phase. Scemblix belongs to a class of drugs called BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors, specifically known as STAMP inhibitors. As a specialty oncology medication, Scemblix carries a high list price that can be difficult or impossible for many patients to afford without insurance or financial assistance. There are currently no FDA-approved biosimilar versions of Scemblix, which means lower-cost alternatives in the same drug class are not yet available on the market.
---
Income Eligibility: Full Breakdown
The NPAF uses household size and annual income to determine whether you qualify. The income limits below are based on approximately 500% of the Federal Poverty Level, calculated using 2025 HHS guidelines:
| Household Size | Maximum Annual Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $75,300 |
| 2 persons | $102,200 |
| 3 persons | $129,100 |
| 4 persons | $156,000 |
Your income is typically verified using your most recent federal tax return, your W-2 forms, or three months of recent pay stubs. The program looks at your total household income, not just your individual earnings, so be prepared to include income from all members of your household.
If your income is slightly above the listed limits, it is still worth calling the NPAF directly at (800) 277-2254 to ask about your options. Program staff can sometimes account for unusual financial circumstances, such as recent job loss, large medical expenses, or a significant drop in income since your last tax return. Households larger than four people may also be reviewed individually, as the income threshold generally increases with each additional household member.
---
Insurance Requirements Explained
Your insurance status plays a major role in whether you qualify for the NPAF. Here is how different situations are handled:
---
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply for free Scemblix through the NPAF:
1. Visit the program page. Go to https://www.novartis.com/us-en/patients-and-caregivers/patient-assistance/novartis-patient-assistance-foundation-inc to access the online application or download a paper form.
2. Gather your documents before you start. You will need:
- A completed application form with your physician's signature
- Proof of income (your most recent federal tax return, W-2, or three months of pay stubs)
- A valid prescription for Scemblix from your doctor
3. Complete the application. Fill out all sections carefully. Incomplete applications can cause delays.
4. Have your doctor sign. Your prescribing physician must sign the application. Many patients find it easiest to bring the form to their next appointment or ask the doctor's office to complete their portion directly.
5. Submit your application. You can apply in one of three ways:
- Online: Through the link above
- Phone: Call (800) 277-2254 to apply with a representative or ask questions
- Fax: Send completed documents to (888) 891-4924
6. Wait for a decision. Processing typically takes 2 to 5 business days after your complete application is received.
---
What to Expect: Timeline and Delivery
Once your application is submitted with all required documents, a decision typically comes within 2 to 5 business days. You or your doctor's office will be notified of approval. If approved, Scemblix will be shipped directly to your home address — you do not need to pick it up at a pharmacy. No special steps are required at delivery beyond signing for the package if required by the carrier.
Your enrollment in the NPAF is not permanent. Reauthorization is required every year. Before your annual renewal date, you will need to resubmit updated income documentation and a new application with your physician's signature. It is a good idea to begin the renewal process at least a few weeks before your current approval expires to avoid any gap in your supply.
---
Alternatives If You Don't Qualify
If you do not meet the NPAF's requirements, here are additional options to explore:
1. Biosimilars: There are currently no FDA-approved biosimilars for Scemblix. This option is not available at this time.
2. Manufacturer savings card (insured patients): If you have commercial insurance, Novartis offers a co-pay card for Scemblix that may reduce your out-of-pocket costs. You can learn more and enroll at https://www.scemblix.com/patient-support/copay-card. Note that this card is generally not available to Medicare or Medicaid patients.
3. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs): Many states run their own drug assistance programs, especially for seniors or patients with disabilities. Search for your state's SPAP through your state health department website.
4. NeedyMeds.org: This free, independent database lists hundreds of patient assistance programs, co-pay assistance funds, and disease-specific foundations. Visit www.needymeds.org to search for additional help covering Scemblix or related costs.
---
*This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Eligibility determinations are made solely by Novartis. Program terms may change — verify current requirements at [https://www.scemblix.com/patient-support](https://www.scemblix.com/patient-support) before applying.*
---
Documents You'll Need
If You Don't Qualify for the Assistance Program
Manufacturer Savings Card (for insured patients)
Novartis offers a savings card that may reduce your out-of-pocket cost if you have commercial insurance. Ask your prescriber or pharmacist for current savings card details.
Common Questions
Most applications are processed within 2 to 5 business days after Novartis receives your complete paperwork, including your application, proof of income, and a signed prescription. Incomplete applications will take longer, so make sure all documents are included before you submit.
Yes. The NPAF does accept Medicare Part D patients, which sets it apart from many other patient assistance programs. You must still meet the income requirements and have no other coverage that pays for Scemblix. Call (800) 277-2254 if you are unsure whether your Medicare plan qualifies you.
Your enrollment must be renewed every year. You will need to submit a new application with your physician's signature and updated proof of income. Start the renewal process a few weeks before your current approval ends to avoid running out of medication during the review period.
It is worth contacting the NPAF directly at (800) 277-2254 before giving up. Staff may be able to consider factors such as recent job loss, high medical expenses, or other financial hardships that are not reflected in your tax return. Each case is reviewed individually.
Yes. Novartis offers a savings card for commercially insured patients that may lower your out-of-pocket cost for Scemblix. You can find enrollment information at https://www.scemblix.com/patient-support/copay-card. This card is generally not available to patients with Medicare or Medicaid coverage.
Ready to Apply for Scemblix Assistance?
RX Advantages handles the entire Novartis Patient Assistance Foundation (NPAF) application on your behalf — paperwork, physician coordination, and refill tracking. It takes about 15 minutes to get started.
No SSN required on the web form · From $49.95/month