See the DrugPatentWatch profile for nivolumab

Insurance coverage plays a significant role in determining the use of Nivolumab, an immunotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer. Here's how:

1. **Cost**: Nivolumab is a costly drug, and its high price can be a barrier to access for many patients [1]. Insurance coverage can help alleviate this burden by covering a significant portion of the cost, making it more affordable for patients.

2. **Coverage Policies**: Insurance companies have specific policies regarding which drugs they cover and under what circumstances. If Nivolumab is not included in a plan's formulary, or if there are strict restrictions on its use, this can limit a patient's access to the drug [2].

3. **Prior Authorization**: Many insurance plans require prior authorization before they will cover the cost of Nivolumab [3]. This process can delay treatment as healthcare providers need to provide additional information to the insurance company to justify the need for the drug.

4. **Step Therapy**: Some insurance plans require patients to try other, less expensive treatments before they will cover the cost of Nivolumab [4]. This can also delay treatment and potentially reduce its effectiveness.

5. **Quantity Limits**: Insurance companies may also impose quantity limits on the amount of Nivolumab they will cover [5]. This can impact the continuity of treatment, potentially reducing its effectiveness.

In conclusion, insurance coverage significantly influences the use of Nivolumab by affecting its cost, the process of obtaining it, and the continuity of treatment.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com, "Nivolumab (Opdivo) - Patent Expiration & Drug Sales", https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/nivolumab-opdivo/
[2] American Society of Clinical Oncology, "Understanding Health Insurance", https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/financial-and-legal-issues/understanding-health-insurance
[3] American Cancer Society, "Paying for Your Cancer Treatment", https://www.cancer.org/treatment/finding-and-paying-for-treatment/understanding-health-insurance/understanding-prior-authorization-and-appeals.html
[4] National Cancer Institute, "Health Insurance and Patient Costs", https://www.cancer.gov/about-nci/organization/ccg/research/structural-genomics/patient-costs
[5] Cancer.Net, "Understanding Health Insurance", https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/financial-and-legal-issues/understanding-health-insurance/understanding-quantity-limits