What Can You Buy With an OTC Card?

An Over-the-Counter (OTC) card functions as a prepaid debit card, typically provided by certain health insurance plans, most often Medicare Advantage plans. This card offers a defined monetary allowance to help individuals manage healthcare expenditures by covering approved health-related products and, in some instances, specific food items. Its primary goal is to alleviate out-of-pocket costs for common health necessities not usually covered by standard medical insurance.

Eligible Health Products and Supplies

An OTC card allows for the purchase of various health products and supplies, aiming to support daily wellness and minor health concerns. Common non-prescription medications often include pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, cold and flu remedies, allergy medications, and antacids. Vitamins and dietary supplements, including prenatal vitamins and prebiotics, are also frequently covered.

First aid supplies are another core category, encompassing items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, medical tape, and hot or cold packs. Personal care products extend to necessities such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, denture care items, specific skincare products, and feminine hygiene products. Furthermore, many plans include health monitoring devices like blood pressure monitors, glucose meters and their accompanying strips, and thermometers. Vision and hearing aids, such as reading glasses, contact lens solutions, and batteries for hearing aids, may also be eligible purchases.

Understanding Covered Food and Groceries

Some OTC cards extend their benefits to include healthy food and grocery items. When food is covered, the intent is to support access to nutritious options that contribute to overall health. Typically, eligible food items include fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, eggs, and whole grains like rice and pasta.

However, certain items are generally excluded from purchase with an OTC card, even if food benefits are provided. These exclusions often consist of alcohol, tobacco products, hot prepared foods, and non-food household items unless they are specifically categorized as health supplies. Products such as candy, chips, and soda are also commonly not covered.

How to Use Your OTC Card

Using an OTC card for purchases is generally straightforward, operating much like a standard debit card. For in-store transactions, members typically swipe the card at the point of sale, selecting “credit” if prompted, and entering a Personal Identification Number (PIN) if required. The system at the checkout automatically identifies and applies the card’s funds to eligible items in the purchase, deducting their cost from the card’s balance. If the purchase includes items that are not eligible, the card will only cover the eligible portion, and another form of payment will be needed for the remaining balance.

For online purchases, cardholders enter the card details, including the card number, expiration date, and security code (CVV), on the participating retailer’s website or through the health plan’s dedicated online portal. It is advisable for members to check their card balance before shopping to avoid any discrepancies. Balance information can usually be accessed through the health plan’s website, a dedicated phone number, or a mobile application. In the event of a return or exchange for an item purchased with an OTC card, the process usually involves the funds being credited back to the card, rather than a cash refund.

Where to Use Your OTC Card

OTC cards are accepted at a variety of retail locations and online platforms that have partnered with the health plans. Common participating retailers include major pharmacy chains such as CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid. Many large discount and general merchandise stores, like Walmart and Dollar General, also accept these cards. If the plan includes food benefits, grocery stores such as Kroger and ShopRite may also be part of the accepted network.

Beyond physical stores, many health plans offer their own dedicated online stores or collaborate with specific online retailers for OTC purchases. This allows members the convenience of ordering eligible items for home delivery. To determine the most current and comprehensive list of participating locations, members are encouraged to consult their specific health plan’s website, utilize a store locator tool provided by the card issuer, or refer to their plan’s benefit catalog. It is always beneficial to confirm acceptance with the retailer or health plan, as participating locations can vary.