What can I buy with my Aetna OTC card? What items are covered with the OTC card? In this article, we’ will show you how OTC cards work, list of items you can buy with your Aetna OTC card. We will also give you some useful tips so you can get the most out of your Aetna OTC benefit.
Let’s get started!
If you have an Aetna Over-the-Counter (OTC) card, you may be wondering exactly what you can buy with it and how it can make your life easier. From cold and flu medications to certain healthy foods, these cards are designed to help you stay healthy—without breaking the bank.
What Is an Aetna OTC Card?
An Aetna OTC card is a prepaid debit card (or sometimes a catalog allowance) offered by select Aetna Medicare Advantage plans. This benefit is designed to cover the cost of eligible over-the-counter health items. Instead of paying out of your own pocket for common health-related necessities, you can use this card—similar to using a gift card—to pay for certain items at participating stores or online.
Related Article: 4 Steps to get a united healthcare OTC card
What Items Are Covered with the OTC Card?
Over-the-Counter Medications
1. Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
2. Allergy medications (e.g., antihistamines)
3. Cold and flu remedies (e.g., cough syrup, decongestants)
4. Antacids and digestive aids
First Aid Supplies
5. Bandages and dressings
6. First aid ointments (e.g., antibiotic cream)
7. Hot/cold packs
Vitamins & Dietary Supplements
8. Daily multivitamins
9. Specific mineral supplements (e.g., calcium, iron)
10. Vitamin D, B12, etc.
Personal Care Items
11. Oral care (toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss)
12. Skin care (e.g., moisturizers, sunscreens)
13. Bath safety (e.g., bathing wipes, incontinence supplies)
14. Ear and eye care products (e.g., ear drops, contact solution)
Home Health Monitoring Devices
15. Blood pressure monitors
16. Thermometers
17. Diabetes testing supplies (where allowed)
Always check your plan’s official OTC catalog or website for a detailed list of approved items, as coverage can vary depending on your specific plan.
Related Article: How to use united healthcare OTC Card at Walmart
Can I Use My Aetna OTC Card for Food?
The standard Aetna OTC card generally does not cover regular groceries or hot meals. However, some Aetna Medicare Advantage plans offer an Aetna Extra Benefits Card (or “healthy food” benefit), which may allow you to purchase a specific selection of nutritious foods. This benefit often covers:
18. Fresh fruits and vegetables
19. Whole grain bread and cereals
20. Low-fat dairy products
21. Lean meats, poultry, and fish
If you have this Aetna Extra Benefits Card or a plan that includes a healthy food allowance, you can buy eligible food items at participating retailers. But be aware that not all Aetna plans include this feature—so you’ll want to confirm whether your plan offers a “food benefit” or just a basic OTC allowance.
Can I Buy Laundry Detergent with My OTC Card?
Whether you can buy laundry detergent or other household items with your Aetna OTC card depends on your plan’s guidelines. Many standard OTC benefits do not include general household essentials like cleaning supplies or laundry detergent. However, some enhanced plans may broaden the category of eligible items to include certain household products. Check your plan’s official benefit booklet or contact Aetna directly to see if your specific plan covers non-health items like laundry detergent.
What Foods Can I Buy with My Aetna Extra Benefits Card?
If your plan includes a healthy food allowance, you may be able to purchase items such as:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh, frozen, or canned (without added sugars or high-sodium sauces)
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, whole wheat pasta, oats, and other whole grain products
- Lean Proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, and other lean meats (fresh or frozen)
- Low-Fat Dairy: Milk, yogurt, cheese (reduced-fat options)
- Canned or Dry Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas
These items are aimed at promoting a healthier diet and may vary slightly depending on location and specific plan rules. Remember: Not every plan with OTC benefits also includes the food allowance, so confirm your plan’s coverage details to avoid surprises at the checkout counter.
Read Also: 6 Steps to use UnitedHealthcare OTC card
Tips for Making the Most of Your Aetna OTC Card
- Check Your Balance Regularly
- Keep track of your card balance to avoid overspending. You can often check this online, via a phone app, or by calling the number on the back of the card.
- Review the Product Catalog
- Aetna usually provides an approved OTC product catalog or a website where you can see all eligible items. Familiarize yourself with what’s covered to prevent declined transactions.
- Use Preferred Retailers
- Most cards work at retailers like Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and even online pharmacies. Make sure you’re shopping at a location that accepts your OTC or Extra Benefits card.
- Combine Benefits
- If your plan has both OTC and healthy food allowances, remember they might be separate accounts or buckets. Keep an eye on which items are charged to each allowance.
- Stay Up to Date
- Coverage guidelines and approved items can change from year to year. Always look out for Aetna notices or contact customer service if you have questions about new or updated benefits.
Final Thoughts
When in doubt, contact Aetna Member Services for the most accurate and up-to-date information. By staying informed, you’ll make the most of your OTC benefits—and that’s a smart way to stay on top of your health!
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