What Items Can You Buy With Your OTC Card?

An Over-the-Counter (OTC) card is a specialized benefit, typically provided by health plans, most commonly Medicare Advantage plans. It operates like a prepaid debit card, preloaded with an allowance for health-related products. Its purpose is to make everyday health items accessible and affordable. Funds are designated for eligible over-the-counter items, not for general purchases.

Eligible Items and Categories

OTC cards cover a broad spectrum of products aimed at supporting health and wellness. The specific items available differ significantly by health plan. Health plans often provide a catalog or an online portal listing the exact items eligible for purchase, which is the most reliable source for a member’s specific coverage.

Pain Relief and Cold/Flu Medications

Pain relief and cold/flu medications are frequently covered, encompassing items such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin for aches, pains, and fever. This category also includes cough syrups, throat lozenges, nasal sprays, and decongestants designed to alleviate symptoms of colds, flu, and allergies.

First Aid and Medical Supplies

First aid and medical supplies constitute another significant category of eligible items. This includes bandages, adhesive strips, gauze, and medical tapes for wound care. Antiseptic wipes, rubbing alcohol, and antibiotic ointments are typically covered for cleaning and treating minor injuries. Items like hot/cold packs, thermometers, and cotton swabs are commonly available for general home health management.

Digestive Health Products

Products for digestive health are also widely included, such as antacids for heartburn, laxatives for constipation, and anti-diarrheal medications. Fiber supplements and probiotics, which support gut health, may also be eligible under this category.

Personal Care Items

Personal care items, including oral, eye, and ear care products, are frequently covered. Oral care items often consist of toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash. Eye care products typically include eye drops for dryness or redness, and contact lens solution. Ear care items, such as earwax removal kits, are also commonly found on eligible lists.

Vitamins and Dietary Supplements

Vitamins and dietary supplements are generally eligible, covering a wide array of options from multivitamins to specific nutrient supplements like Vitamin D, C, and calcium. Fish oil supplements and other herbal or mineral supplements are also often included.

Durable Medical Equipment and Health Monitoring Devices

Certain durable medical equipment and health monitoring devices may be covered. This can include items like blood pressure monitors, glucose meters and test strips for diabetes management, and certain orthopedic supports like braces or compression socks. Some plans may also cover items such as exercise equipment, activity trackers, or personal emergency response systems, emphasizing a broader approach to health support.

Beyond these traditional health-related items, some specialized plans might expand eligibility to include categories like baby care products, feminine hygiene products, or even healthy foods and utilities. However, such expanded benefits are less common and typically apply to specific plan types or for members with certain chronic conditions. Cosmetic items, general toiletries, and prescription medications are generally not covered by OTC cards.

How to Use Your OTC Card

Using an OTC card is similar to using a standard debit card for purchases. These cards are typically accepted at a variety of participating retailers, including major pharmacies, grocery stores, and online stores. Many plans provide a list of approved retailers, and some stores even mark eligible products to simplify the shopping experience.

When shopping in a physical store, the process involves swiping the OTC card at checkout, much like a credit or debit card. If prompted, the transaction is often processed as a credit purchase. For online purchases, members typically enter the card details, including the card number, expiration date, and security code, during the checkout process. Some online retailers allow saving the card details for future convenience.

A common scenario involves purchasing a mix of eligible and ineligible items in a single transaction. In such cases, the OTC card will automatically apply its balance only to the eligible items. The remaining balance for any ineligible items, or if the total cost of eligible items exceeds the card’s balance, will need to be paid using another form of payment, such as a personal debit/credit card or cash. It is advisable to check the card’s balance before shopping to avoid surprises at checkout.

Members can typically check their OTC card balance by calling the customer service number located on the back of the card or by accessing their health plan provider’s online member portal. Some plans also offer mobile applications that allow for easy balance checks and even provide a feature to scan product barcodes to determine eligibility. Most plans load funds to the card on a periodic basis, such as monthly or quarterly, and any unused funds often do not roll over to the next period, so it is beneficial to utilize the allowance regularly. Shipping or delivery fees for online orders may or may not be covered, depending on the specific plan’s rules.