OBJECTIVES: Given the increasingly high cost of oncology therapies, affordability is an access barrier for patients in low- and middle-income countries. In recent years, a select number of pharmaceutical companies have begun to pursue solutions that are tailored to local health care needs. The objective of this research was to measure both the prevalence (number of programs) and success of these patient access programs (PAPs) in low- and middle-income countries. METHODS: Our research identified and analyzed PAPs, from 2008-2016, that offered assistance for oncology products. We then determined the geographical areas with the highest density of programs, as well as the manufacturers with the highest number of these programs. Furthermore, we categorized these programs into three subtypes: differential pricing, commercial arrangements, and donation programs. Lastly, we measured success of these programs through a GFK-established ‘Program Success Rate,’ comparing the number of patients who obtain access through a PAP to the total disease incidence in the country.  RESULTS: After reviewing secondary resources, we identified APAC and MENA as having a high density of PAPs. Through this process, it became clear that AstraZeneca, Bayer, Novartis, and Roche have the most established PAPs in these locations. These PAPs most commonly targeted leukemia, breast, kidney, liver, and lung cancer. However, the incidence rates of these cancers did not directly correlate with the ‘Program Success Rate.’ With that being said, Novartis has increased access for the highest number of patients through their ‘Glivec International Patient Assistance Program (GIPAP).’ CONCLUSIONS: Several pharmaceutical manufacturers have developed innovative access programs for oncology that consider patient affordability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Although there is not a single, global approach, all examined programs improve patient access to oncology medicines. However, donation programs are the most successful at improving patient access, as represented by the ‘Program Success Rate.’