The Aetna Extra Benefits Card is a valuable tool for Aetna Medicare Advantage members. It offers a prepaid allowance to cover health and everyday expenses.
From over-the-counter products to healthy foods, it simplifies access to wellness essentials. This article explores the card’s features, benefits, and how to use it in 2025.
What Is the Aetna Extra Benefits Card?
The Aetna Extra Benefits Card is a prepaid Mastercard for eligible Aetna Medicare members. It provides a monthly or quarterly allowance for health-related purchases.
The card is part of select Medicare Advantage and Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs).
Members use it to buy approved items like OTC products or groceries. The card is managed through CVS Health’s OTC Health Solutions platform. It’s designed to support whole-person health.
Who Qualifies for the Card?
Eligibility depends on the Aetna plan. Most Medicare Advantage plans, especially D-SNPs, include the card. Members with both Medicare and Medicaid often qualify for enhanced benefits.
In some states, like California and New Jersey, a chronic condition is required. Qualifying conditions include diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disorders. Check your plan’s Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for details.
How the Card Works
The Aetna Extra Benefits Card is loaded with a set allowance, typically monthly or quarterly. Members can use it at participating retailers like CVS, Walmart, and Kroger. Allowances vary by plan, ranging from $25 to $205 monthly.
Unused funds may roll over in some D-SNP plans but not all. The card is activated online or by calling 1-844-428-8147 (TTY: 711). It’s simple to use, like a regular debit card.
Eligible Expenses
The card covers a variety of health and wellness items. Common purchases include OTC products like pain relievers, bandages, and vitamins. Some plans allow spending on healthy foods like fruits and vegetables.
In certain D-SNP plans, members can pay for utilities, transportation, or rent. Eligibility for these expanded benefits depends on the plan and member’s health conditions. Always check the plan’s catalog for approved items.
Common Uses of the Aetna Extra Benefits Card
- OTC Products: Aspirin, cold medicine, and first aid supplies.
- Healthy Foods: Fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and grains.
- Home Safety: Grab bars and bathroom safety items for D-SNPs.
- Utilities: Gas, electricity, or phone bills in select plans.
These categories help members manage health and daily needs. The card promotes preventive care and financial relief.
How to Use the Card
Members can shop in-store, online, or by phone. In-store, swipe the card at checkout at participating retailers like CVS or Walmart. Online, use the CVS OTC Health Solutions portal at CVS.com/Aetna.
Phone orders are placed by calling 1-844-428-8147 (TTY: 711). Members need their Aetna ID or card number. The CVS OTC Health Solutions app tracks balances and eligible items.
Where to Use the Card
The Aetna Extra Benefits Card is accepted at over 70,000 retail locations. These include CVS, Walgreens, Kroger, and Dollar General. Some plans restrict the CVS OTC Wallet to CVS stores only.
To find participating stores, visit CVS.com/Aetna or use the app. Members can also call customer service for a list. The wide network ensures easy access to benefits.
2025 Updates to the Card
In 2025, Aetna merged its Medicare Payment Card and Extra Benefits Card into one. The new Aetna Extra Benefits Card simplifies the experience with multiple “wallets.” These wallets cover OTC, healthy foods, and medical expenses.
The card is now available in 427 plans across 47 states. Some plans offer bonus dollars for choosing high-value primary care providers. Check your plan for specific wallet allowances.
2025 Aetna Extra Benefits Card Wallets
| Wallet Type | Eligible Expenses | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| OTC Wallet | Pain relievers, bandages, vitamins | All qualifying plans |
| CVS OTC Wallet | CVS Health brand OTC products | Select plans |
| Healthy Foods Wallet | Fruits, vegetables, grains | D-SNPs, select plans |
| Extra Supports Wallet | Utilities, transportation, rent | D-SNPs with conditions |
This table outlines the 2025 wallet options. Confirm details with your EOC.
Benefits of the Card
The Aetna Extra Benefits Card reduces out-of-pocket costs for health essentials. It supports preventive care by covering items like vitamins and first aid supplies. Members can manage minor health issues at home.
For D-SNP members, the card helps with daily expenses like groceries or utilities. This financial relief is crucial for those with limited incomes. The card promotes both health and financial wellness.
Integration with CVS Health
Since the 2018 CVS-Aetna merger, the card is powered by CVS Health. Members can use it at standalone CVS and Navarro Discount Pharmacy locations. The OTC Health Solutions platform enhances user experience.
CVS’s network ensures easy access to approved products. Members also get a 20% discount on CVS Health brand items. This integration makes healthcare more convenient and affordable.
Challenges and Limitations
Not all CVS locations accept the card. Stores inside retailers like Target are excluded. Members should verify participating locations online or by phone.
Some plans have reduced allowances in 2025, causing member frustration. For example, OTC benefits dropped from $75 to $60 quarterly in some plans. Checking the EOC helps avoid surprises.
Aetna’s Commitment to Accessibility
Aetna ensures the card is user-friendly for all members. The CVS OTC Health Solutions app and website are easy to navigate. Customer service at 1-844-428-8147 (TTY: 711) offers support in multiple languages.
For members with limited internet access, phone orders and mailed catalogs are available. Aetna’s Healthy Home Visits help identify eligible products. These efforts aim to bridge access gaps.
Member Experiences
Members value the card’s flexibility and convenience. About 80% report satisfaction with the benefit, per industry surveys. Seniors especially appreciate the ability to buy OTC products and groceries.
Some members face challenges with reduced benefits or store restrictions. Aetna is improving communication to clarify eligible items. Feedback helps refine the program for 2025.
Future of the Aetna Extra Benefits Card
Aetna plans to enhance the card in 2025 with more digital tools. The CVS app will offer better balance tracking and product scanning. AI may streamline eligibility checks and shopping.
The card will expand to more plans, focusing on chronic condition support. Aetna aims to increase allowances for healthy foods and home safety. This aligns with CVS Health’s wellness mission.
Supporting Preventive Care
The card encourages proactive health management. Members can buy products to prevent minor issues from escalating. For example, allergy medicine reduces complications.
Healthy Home Visits complement the card by assessing members’ needs. Clinicians recommend items like grab bars, covered by the card. This holistic approach supports long-term health.
Summary
The Aetna Extra Benefits Card is a powerful benefit for Medicare Advantage members. It offers flexible allowances for OTC products, groceries, and even utilities in some plans. The 2025 updates simplify usage with a single card and multiple wallets.
Despite challenges like store restrictions, the card enhances accessibility through CVS’s network. Aetna’s focus on member support ensures a user-friendly experience. This benefit empowers members to prioritize health and wellness.
FAQ
What is the Aetna Extra Benefits Card?
It’s a prepaid Mastercard for Aetna Medicare members to buy OTC products and healthy foods. Some plans cover utilities or transportation. Allowances vary by plan.
Who can use the Aetna Extra Benefits Card?
Members with select Medicare Advantage or D-SNP plans qualify. In some states, a chronic condition is required. Check your EOC for eligibility.
Where can I use the card?
Use it at CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and over 70,000 retailers. Some plans limit the CVS OTC Wallet to CVS stores. Verify locations at CVS.com/Aetna.
What can I buy with the card?
Buy OTC items like pain relievers, vitamins, and bandages. Some plans cover healthy foods, utilities, or rent. Check your plan’s catalog for details.
What’s new for the card in 2025?
The card combines OTC and medical wallets into one. It’s available in 427 plans with bonus dollars for high-value PCPs. Allowances vary by plan.
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