What can I buy with my Anthem OTC card? In this article, we will show you the full list of things you can buy with your Anthem OTC card. Here, you will also find some helpful tips on how to make the most of your benefit.
If you have an Anthem Over-the-Counter (OTC) card, you might be wondering what exactly you can purchase with it. Whether you’re new to this benefit or just want a refresher, you’ve come to the right place.
What is Anthem OTC Card?
Before we get into the fun stuff—like picking out the items you need—let’s clarify what your Anthem OTC card is all about. This card is a benefit provided by certain Anthem Medicare Advantage plans that allows you to buy everyday health and wellness products. Each plan has a specific allowance (monthly or quarterly) that you can use to cover eligible items without spending out-of-pocket cash.
Over-the-Counter Medications
One of the most significant perks of having an OTC card is the ability to purchase over-the-counter medications. Here are a few common examples:
1. Pain Relievers: Items like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen (Aleve).
2. Allergy Medications: Antihistamines (like Claritin or Zyrtec) and nasal sprays.
3. Digestive Aids: Antacids (Tums, Rolaids), laxatives, anti-diarrheal solutions.
4. Cold & Flu Remedies: Cough syrups, decongestants, and throat lozenges.
These products often land on the approved list because they help manage everyday health concerns without the need for a prescription. Just remember that not all brands or forms may be covered, so keep your plan’s approved product list handy when you shop.
Related Article: 48 Things You Can Buy on Amazon with OTC Card
Vitamins and Supplements
Looking to maintain good health or manage specific nutritional needs? Many Anthem OTC cards allow for the purchase of select vitamins and supplements, such as:
5. Multivitamins
6. Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron
7. B-Complex Vitamins
8. Fish Oil or Omega-3 Supplements
You’ll want to check your plan’s catalog for details—sometimes certain brands or formulations are included while others might not be.
Personal Care and Hygiene Products
Your Anthem OTC benefit isn’t just for meds—it can also help cover a range of personal care items. Think of it like a mini-shopping spree for everyday essentials! Common examples include:
9. Oral Care: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, mouthwash.
10. Feminine Hygiene: Pads, liners, and tampons.
11. Incontinence Products: Adult diapers, protective pads, and related supplies.
12. Skin Care: Sunscreen, moisturizing lotions, and lip balms.
13. First-Aid Supplies: Bandages, antiseptic creams, and sterile gauze.
These products help you stay on top of your personal hygiene while saving a bit of cash in the process.
Related Article: 32 Things You Can Buy with Humana OTC Card
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) and Related Items
Depending on your plan, you might be eligible to use your OTC card for certain health-related devices and supplies, such as:
14. Blood Pressure Monitors
15. Glucose Meters and Test Strips
16. Thermometers
17. Canes and Walkers (Sometimes)
18. Compression Socks
Not every plan covers these items, so be sure to check your specific benefits. Items like compression socks and other durable medical equipment can be a big help in maintaining your overall health and mobility.
Miscellaneous Essentials
Did you know there’s sometimes a grab-bag of other useful items that could be included? While this varies greatly by plan, you might find the following are eligible for purchase:
19. Wound Care Supplies: Gauze pads, tape, and alcohol wipes.
20. Ear and Eye Care: Earwax removal drops, eye drops for dryness or redness.
21. Hand Sanitizers and Soaps
22. Foot Care Products: Corn and callus removers, medicated foot sprays.
Check your plan’s list because these smaller items can really add up over time—your OTC card helps cover them so you don’t have to pay out of pocket.
Related Article: 13 Stores that Accept WellCare OTC Card – In-stores and online stores
How to Use Your Anthem OTC Card
Purchasing items with your Anthem OTC card is usually pretty straightforward, but here are a few best practices to ensure you’re doing it right:
- Review Your Plan’s Catalog: Anthem often provides a catalog or online portal that outlines eligible products.
- Shop at Approved Retailers: Major pharmacy chains (like CVS, Walgreens, Walmart) and mail-order services typically accept the card. Some local stores may also be part of the network, so keep an eye out for participating retailers.
- Swipe Your Card at Checkout: Just like a debit card, you’ll use the Anthem OTC card to pay for eligible products. The cost (up to your allowance) will be deducted automatically.
- Keep Track of Your Balance: Whether you have a monthly or quarterly allowance, make sure to use it before it expires. Unused funds might not roll over to the next period, depending on your plan’s rules.
Tips for Maximizing Your OTC Benefits
- Plan Your Purchases: Since you know your allowance and how often it resets, it’s wise to plan your buys around that schedule.
- Combine Savings: If possible, use coupons or store loyalty programs alongside your OTC benefit for extra savings.
- Stay Updated: Benefits and eligible items can change from year to year, so always check your plan materials or contact Anthem with any questions.
Final Thoughts
Your Anthem OTC card is an incredibly handy resource for managing everyday health and wellness costs. By understanding what’s covered—ranging from everyday cold and flu relief to personal care and even certain medical devices—you can make the most of your allowance and keep your out-of-pocket expenses to a minimum. As always, if you have questions or concerns, reach out to Anthem’s customer service or consult your plan documents to ensure you’re up to date on any changes.
Ready to Shop? Make a list of the items you need, verify they’re covered, and head to your favorite participating retailer. With a little bit of planning and some smart shopping, you’ll be maximizing your OTC benefit in no time. Stay happy, stay healthy, and enjoy your Anthem OTC card perks!
FAQs
1. Can I Buy Food with an Anthem OTC Card?
Typically, the Anthem OTC card is designed for health-related products, such as over-the-counter medicines, personal care items, and certain medical supplies. In most cases, you cannot use your Anthem OTC card to purchase regular groceries or hot/prepared foods.
However, there are some specific plans that include allowances for healthy food items—such as fresh fruits, vegetables, or lean meats—but this usually comes as a separate benefit known as a “Healthy Food Card” or “Healthy Groceries Benefit.” If you’re uncertain, check your plan documents or call the customer service number on the back of your Anthem Medicare Advantage card to confirm.
2. What Does the Anthem OTC Card Cover?
Your Anthem OTC card generally covers a variety of health and wellness items, including:
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, digestive aids, and allergy medications.
- Vitamins and Supplements: Multivitamins, Vitamin D, Calcium, and more (brand allowances may vary).
- Personal Care Items: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, feminine hygiene products, adult incontinence supplies, and first-aid essentials.
- Durable Medical Equipment (if covered): Blood pressure monitors, glucose meters/test strips, thermometers, and sometimes compression socks or canes.
Always consult your plan’s approved product catalog or contact Anthem to confirm which items are eligible.
3. Can I Buy Laundry Detergent with My Anthem OTC Card?
In most standard Anthem OTC plans, laundry detergent is not typically included because it’s considered a household (non-medical) product. The OTC benefit is primarily focused on health and wellness items.
- That said, certain special-needs plans or customized benefits may include a broader array of household items. Check with your specific plan to see if laundry detergent is included in your coverage.
4. What Food Can I Buy with My Anthem OTC Card?
- Regular OTC Card: Under a standard OTC benefit, you usually cannot purchase everyday groceries like bread, milk, or other typical food items.
- Healthy Food or “Grocery” Benefit: If you have a separate healthy food benefit (sometimes called a “Grocery Card” or “Healthy Food Allowance”), you may be able to buy fresh produce, dairy, meat, and other nutritious foods. Each plan has its own guidelines on which items qualify.
To get clarity on your food benefits, look for terms like “Healthy Food Allowance” or “Healthy Groceries Benefit” in your plan materials or ask your Anthem representative. This is entirely separate from the standard OTC benefit in many cases.
