What Can You Buy With Your OTC Card?

An Over-The-Counter (OTC) card provides a structured way for individuals to purchase specific health and wellness products. These cards are typically issued by health insurance plans, particularly Medicare Advantage plans, as a supplemental benefit. They function like a prepaid debit card, preloaded with a set allowance to help beneficiaries cover the costs of eligible health-related items. The card aims to make certain non-prescription products more accessible.

Eligible Items

OTC cards allow for the purchase of various health and wellness products, though specific items covered differ significantly based on an individual’s health plan. Common eligible items include over-the-counter medications such as pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, and allergy medicines. These address routine health concerns without requiring a prescription.

First-aid supplies, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and hot/cold packs, are generally covered. Dental care items like toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, and denture care products also qualify. For eye care, reading glasses, contact lens solutions, and eye drops are frequently included.

Personal care items, such as incontinence supplies and feminine hygiene products, are often eligible. Some plans might extend benefits to nutritional items, like healthy foods or specific dietary supplements, but this varies and is not universally available. Medical devices and durable medical equipment, which can include blood pressure monitors, glucose meters, and certain braces, are also commonly covered.

Items Not Covered

While OTC cards cover many health-related products, certain items are generally excluded. Prescription medications, which require a doctor’s order, are not eligible for purchase. Alcohol and tobacco products are universally excluded from these benefits.

Cosmetics and most beauty products typically do not qualify, unless they have a direct medical application. General household cleaning supplies and pet-related items are outside the scope of OTC card benefits. Unless specifically designated as a healthy food benefit by the plan, most general groceries are not covered.

Gift cards cannot be purchased with an OTC card, nor can the card be converted into cash. Medical services, like doctor visits or gym memberships, are not covered.

Using Your OTC Card

Using an OTC card for purchases is similar to using a standard debit or credit card. When shopping in a participating physical retail store, beneficiaries present the card at checkout. If prompted, selecting “credit” often processes the transaction without requiring a Personal Identification Number (PIN), as many OTC cards do not have one.

If a purchase amount exceeds the available balance on the card, the transaction can often be split. The OTC card covers the eligible portion, and another payment method covers the remainder. For online purchases, card details are entered during checkout on approved retailer websites or through the health plan’s dedicated online portal.

Some plans also facilitate mail-order or phone orders, where eligible items can be selected from a catalog and shipped directly. Confirm the retailer is part of the health plan’s approved network, as the card will only function at these designated locations. Many plans provide a list of these approved retailers through their member portals or mobile applications.

Managing Your OTC Card Benefits

Beneficiaries can check their card balance through online portals provided by their health plan, dedicated mobile applications, or by calling the member services number on the back of the card.

Funds are loaded onto the card at predetermined intervals, which can be monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the specific health plan. Unused funds often do not roll over to the next benefit period and may expire.

In the event of a lost or stolen card, beneficiaries should immediately report it to their health plan’s member services to prevent unauthorized use and arrange for a replacement. Each health plan has unique rules regarding eligible items, benefit amounts, and usage policies. Consulting the plan’s specific documentation or contacting member services directly is the most reliable way to understand and manage these benefits.