Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) announced the expansion of its Standing in the Gaap program, which addresses care gaps for multiple myeloma patients in underserved communities. The program, originally launched in 2016, will now serve a broader patient population.

The pharmaceutical company is conducting what it describes as one of the largest multiple myeloma surveys in the United States, engaging more than 1,000 patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. The survey aims to identify factors contributing to care gaps across the treatment continuum.

The survey was developed with input from patient advocacy organizations including the International Myeloma Foundation, Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, HealthTree Foundation, Blood Cancer United, and Black Health Matters.

Since its inception, Standing in the Gaap has reached more than 5,000 attendees through over 50 educational programs and built a digital community of nearly 60,000 people, according to the company. The program initially focused on challenges faced by African Americans with multiple myeloma.

"Even the most advanced treatments can fall short if patients aren't represented in research, can't access care or struggle to navigate the healthcare system," said Andrew Whitehead, Vice President and Head of Population Health at Bristol Myers Squibb.

Bristol Myers Squibb plans to share survey findings with stakeholders and use the results to inform future programming and partnerships in multiple myeloma care. The company stated the expanded program will use community-informed approaches to advance equitable care access.