United Healthcare Medicare OTC Benefits: What You Need to Know
United Healthcare Medicare OTC benefits offer significant value to Medicare Advantage plan members by helping cover the cost of over-the-counter (OTC) health-related items. These benefits promote wellness and provide essential support for managing everyday health needs without out-of-pocket costs.
In this article, we’ll explore what the OTC benefit is, what it covers, and how members can make the most of it.
What Is the United Healthcare Medicare OTC Benefit?
UnitedHealthcare’s OTC benefit is included in many of its Medicare Advantage plans (Part C). It gives eligible members a set dollar amount (e.g., $40 or $50) every month or quarter to spend on approved health and wellness items without needing a prescription.
Eligible OTC Items Include:
Vitamins and supplements
Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
Cough, cold, and allergy medications
First aid supplies
Oral care products (such as toothpaste and mouthwash)
Digestive health aids (e.g., antacids, fiber supplements)
Incontinence supplies
And more
How Does the OTC Benefit Work?
Receive OTC Credits: Members get a monthly or quarterly OTC allowance depending on their plan.
Shop for Eligible Items: Members can order OTC items through UnitedHealthcare’s partner catalog, website, mobile app, or by phone.
Delivery to Your Door: Products are shipped free of charge, directly to the member’s home.
⚠️ Unused credits typically do not roll over, so it’s important to use them within the designated time period.
People Also Ask
Does UnitedHealthcare Medicare Have OTC Benefits?
Yes, many UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans include OTC benefits. These allow members to purchase a wide range of health and wellness items using a prepaid credit, usually provided monthly or quarterly.
Does Medicare Pay for OTC Items?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover OTC items. However, many Medicare Advantage plans, such as those offered by UnitedHealthcare, provide an OTC allowance as part of their supplemental benefits.
What Is OTC in Health Insurance?
OTC stands for over-the-counter, referring to medications and health items you can buy without a prescription. In health insurance, OTC benefits refer to a prepaid allowance that helps cover the cost of these non-prescription health products.
Does United Healthcare OTC Cover Toothpaste?
Yes. Toothpaste is one of the many items commonly covered under the UnitedHealthcare OTC benefit, alongside toothbrushes, mouthwash, and floss. Check your plan’s catalog for specific approved brands and types.
How to Access and Use Your UnitedHealthcare OTC Benefit
Log in to your plan’s member portal (e.g., UHCMemberHub.com).
View your OTC credit balance.
Browse the OTC catalog or shop online.
Place your order and enjoy free home delivery.
Conclusion
The United Healthcare Medicare OTC benefit is a valuable tool for managing your health with ease and affordability. If you’re enrolled in a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan, don’t miss the opportunity to use your OTC credits on essential wellness items.
✅ Be sure to check your specific plan details to confirm eligibility, balance limits, and covered items.
frequently asked questions
What items can be purchased with a UnitedHealthcare OTC card?
You can purchase a variety of health-related items, including:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines (pain relievers, allergy medications, cough syrups, etc.)
- First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptics, etc.)
- Personal care items (toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.)
- Health monitoring devices (thermometers, blood pressure monitors, etc.)
- Vitamins and supplements
The exact list of eligible items may vary depending on your specific UnitedHealthcare plan.
Does UnitedHealthcare have OTC benefits?
Yes, many UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage and Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) offer OTC benefits. These benefits allow members to purchase approved health-related items using a prepaid OTC card. The benefit amount and eligible items depend on your specific plan.
How do I order OTC items from UnitedHealthcare?
You can order OTC items in several ways:
- Online: Log in to your UnitedHealthcare member portal and place an order through the OTC catalog.
- By Phone: Call the OTC order number provided by UnitedHealthcare.
- By Mail: Fill out an OTC order form and send it to the designated address.
- In-Store: Use your OTC card at participating retailers to buy eligible products.
How much OTC does UnitedHealthcare give per month?
The OTC allowance varies depending on your plan. Some plans provide a set dollar amount per month or quarter, such as $25, $50, or even $100 per month. Check your plan details or contact UnitedHealthcare for your specific benefit amount.
What stores accept the UnitedHealthcare OTC card?
Many major retailers accept the UnitedHealthcare OTC card, including:
- Walmart
- Walgreens
- CVS Pharmacy
- Rite Aid
- Kroger and affiliated grocery stores
- Publix (select locations)
- Dollar General
- Family Dollar
- Local pharmacies and stores (depending on your location)
To confirm where you can use your OTC card, check the UnitedHealthcare website or call the customer service number on your card.