The Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) over-the-counter (OTC) card helps Medicare Advantage plan members buy health and wellness products without a prescription.
Using your BCBS OTC card to order online at CVS is a convenient way to access these benefits from home.
This article explains how to place a BCBS OTC order online at CVS, eligible items, and tips to maximize your benefits. With simple steps and clear guidance, you’ll be ready to shop smartly.
What Is the BCBS OTC Card?
The BCBS OTC card is a prepaid card loaded with a specific allowance, usually monthly or quarterly, depending on your plan. It’s designed to cover non-prescription health items like pain relievers, vitamins, and bandages. Each BCBS plan varies, with allowances ranging from $25 to $200. Checking your plan’s details ensures you understand your specific benefits.
You can use the card at participating retailers, including CVS, both in-store and online. Online ordering through CVS is especially convenient for those who prefer shopping from home. The process is user-friendly, and CVS offers a wide range of eligible products. Always confirm your plan’s rules to avoid surprises.
Why Choose CVS for Your BCBS OTC Order?
CVS is a trusted partner for many BCBS plans, offering a seamless online shopping experience. Their OTC Health Solutions program ensures you can easily find and purchase eligible items. With over 1,200 products, including 200+ grocery items, CVS provides variety and quality.
Ordering online at CVS saves time and offers home delivery, often at no extra cost. The website is easy to navigate, and you can browse a digital catalog tailored to your plan. This makes CVS a top choice for your BCBS OTC order online.
Eligible Items for Your BCBS OTC Order
Your BCBS OTC card covers a range of health and wellness products. These items help you manage minor health needs or maintain daily well-being. Here’s a list of common categories you can purchase:
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, cold remedies, allergy medicines, and antacids.
- Personal Care: Toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, and deodorant.
- First Aid: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and adhesive tape.
- Nutritional Products: Vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements.
- Healthy Foods: Select plans allow grocery items like fresh produce or pantry staples.
Check your plan’s OTC catalog on the CVS website to confirm eligible items. Some plans also cover utilities like water or electricity bills.
How to Place a BCBS OTC Order Online at CVS
Placing a BCBS OTC order online at CVS is simple and convenient. Start by visiting www.cvs.com/otchs or logging into your CVS account. If you don’t have an account, create one using your BCBS member ID.
Browse the OTC catalog, add eligible items to your cart, and proceed to checkout. Enter your BCBS OTC card details to pay. Orders typically arrive within two weeks, often with free shipping.
Navigating the CVS OTC Catalog
The CVS OTC catalog is your go-to resource for finding eligible products. It’s available online at www.cvs.com/otchs and lists items with product codes for easy ordering. You can filter by category, such as medications or personal care, to find what you need.
The catalog also includes instructions for online, phone, or mail orders. Keep it handy to ensure you select approved items. If you prefer a printed version, call the number on your BCBS member ID card to request one.
Table: Steps to Place a BCBS OTC Order Online at CVS
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit CVS Website | Go to www.cvs.com/otchs and log in or create an account. |
| 2 | Browse OTC Catalog | Select eligible items from the digital catalog. |
| 3 | Add to Cart | Add items to your cart, ensuring they’re within your allowance. |
| 4 | Checkout | Enter your BCBS OTC card details to pay. |
| 5 | Confirm Delivery | Verify your shipping address; orders arrive in about two weeks. |
This table outlines the straightforward process for placing your BCBS OTC order online at CVS. Always double-check your order to avoid issues.
Checking Your OTC Card Balance
Before placing a BCBS OTC order online at CVS, check your card balance. Log into your BCBS member account or the CVS OTC Health Solutions portal. Your balance is updated regularly, showing how much you have left to spend.
Some plans don’t allow unused funds to roll over, so use your allowance before it expires. Set reminders to check your balance monthly or quarterly. This helps you plan purchases and avoid wasting funds.
Benefits of Ordering Online at CVS
Ordering online at CVS offers several advantages. You can shop from home, avoiding crowded stores. The website is user-friendly, with clear categories and product descriptions. Free shipping on most orders adds extra value.
CVS also ensures quality, with products tested for safety and effectiveness. You’ll find both national brands and CVS Health brand items, offering variety and affordability. This makes online ordering a smart choice for your BCBS OTC card.
Tips for a Smooth Online Ordering Experience
To make your BCBS OTC order online at CVS hassle-free, follow these tips. Always verify item eligibility before adding to your cart. Use the OTC catalog or app to confirm products are covered by your plan.
Double-check your card balance to ensure you have enough funds. If your order exceeds your allowance, you’ll need a secondary payment method for non-eligible items. Keep your order confirmation and track your delivery online.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is assuming all health products are eligible. Only items listed in the CVS OTC catalog qualify, so check before ordering. Another error is letting your allowance expire—most plans reset monthly or quarterly without rollovers.
Avoid ordering near the end of your allowance period if delivery might arrive after the reset. Instead, place your BCBS OTC order online at CVS early to ensure funds are used. Contact customer service if you encounter issues.
Phone and Mail Order Alternatives
If online ordering isn’t your preference, CVS offers phone and mail options. Call OTC Health Solutions at (888) 628-2770, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pacific time, to place an order. TTY users can call 711.
For mail orders, download the order form from the CVS OTC catalog, fill it out with product codes, and send it to the address provided. Mail orders are ideal if you’re close to the end of your allowance period.
Special Features of Some BCBS Plans
Some BCBS plans offer extra benefits when ordering through CVS. For example, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota includes healthy food items in their OTC catalog. You might buy fresh produce or pantry staples alongside medications.
Other plans, like Blue Care Plus in Tennessee, allow utility payments for water or electricity. Check your plan’s catalog or call customer service to explore these options. These features make your OTC card even more versatile.
Reimbursement for Out-of-Pocket Purchases
If you buy eligible OTC items out-of-pocket at CVS, some plans offer reimbursement. Save your receipts and complete the reimbursement form available on your BCBS plan’s website. Submit it with proof of purchase to get a refund, usually credited to your OTC card.
Not all plans allow reimbursement, so verify with your plan first. Follow submission guidelines carefully to avoid delays. This option is useful if you shop in-store and later realize items were eligible.
Staying Updated on Your Benefits
BCBS OTC benefits may change yearly, so review your plan annually. Log into your member account or call customer service for updates on allowances, eligible items, or retailers. This keeps you informed and ready to shop.
Sign up for email or text alerts from BCBS or CVS for reminders about your allowance or new features. Staying proactive ensures you never miss out on your benefits. Knowledge is key to maximizing your card’s value.
Why Use Your BCBS OTC Card at CVS?
Using your BCBS OTC card to order online at CVS is a smart way to access health products without extra costs. The convenience of home delivery, a wide product selection, and quality assurance make CVS a reliable choice. Whether you need medications, personal care items, or groceries, CVS has you covered.
This benefit supports your health and saves money. By planning your purchases and using the online catalog, you can make the most of your allowance. Take advantage of this perk to stay healthy and prepared.
Summary
Placing a BCBS OTC order online at CVS is a convenient way to use your Medicare Advantage benefits. The process involves browsing the CVS OTC catalog, selecting eligible items, and paying with your OTC card. You can buy medications, personal care products, first aid supplies, and sometimes groceries or utilities. Check your balance, use your allowance before it expires, and explore CVS’s user-friendly website for a seamless experience. With careful planning, your BCBS OTC card helps you stay healthy and save money.
FAQ
How do I place a BCBS OTC order online at CVS?
Visit www.cvs.com/otchs, log in or create an account, and browse the OTC catalog. Add eligible items to your cart and pay with your BCBS OTC card. Orders typically arrive within two weeks with free shipping.
What items can I buy with my BCBS OTC card at CVS?
You can buy over-the-counter medications, personal care products, first aid supplies, vitamins, and sometimes groceries. Check the CVS OTC catalog for eligible items. Always verify with your plan.
Can I check my OTC card balance before ordering online?
Yes, log into your BCBS member account or the CVS OTC Health Solutions portal. Your balance shows your available funds. Check regularly to avoid expired allowances.
What if my order exceeds my OTC allowance at CVS?
You’ll need a secondary payment method for non-eligible items or amounts over your allowance. Confirm your balance before ordering. CVS won’t process orders exceeding your OTC funds.
Can I return items ordered online with my BCBS OTC card?
Due to the personal nature of OTC products, returns are generally not allowed. Contact OTC Health Solutions at (888) 628-2770 within 30 days for issues. Check your plan’s policy for details.