The CVS OTC Wellcare program helps Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members access health and wellness products at no extra cost.
It’s a valuable benefit for managing everyday health needs. This article explains how the program works, what’s covered, and how to use it in simple terms.
What Is the CVS OTC Wellcare Program?
The CVS OTC Wellcare program is part of Wellcare’s supplemental benefits for select Medicare Advantage and Medicaid plans.
It provides a fixed dollar amount to spend on over-the-counter (OTC) items. These include essentials like pain relievers, vitamins, and bandages.
Members use a Wellcare Spendables™ Card to purchase eligible products. The program is designed for convenience, offering multiple ways to shop. It’s available at CVS stores, online, or by phone.
The program aims to support health and wellness. It helps members stock up on everyday essentials without added costs.
How the Program Works
The CVS OTC Wellcare benefit gives members a preloaded card with a quarterly or monthly allowance. The amount varies by plan, typically ranging from $25 to $120 per period. Members use this to buy approved OTC items.
You can shop in-store at participating CVS locations, online, or by phone. Eligible items are marked with blue tags in stores or listed in the OTC catalog. Unused funds usually don’t roll over, so check your plan’s rules.
The program is managed by CVS Health’s OTC Health Solutions. It ensures easy access to health products.
Eligible Products in the Program
The CVS OTC Wellcare program covers a wide range of health and wellness items. These include pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, vitamins, and first aid supplies. Some plans also cover basic grocery items like nutritional shakes.
Not all products are eligible. Prescription drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are excluded. Always check the OTC catalog or look for blue tags in stores.
Eligible items help manage common health needs. This makes the program practical for daily use.
How to Use the Wellcare Spendables™ Card
The Wellcare Spendables™ Card works like a prepaid debit card for OTC purchases. In stores, present it at checkout or provide your name and date of birth. Online, log into the CVS OTC Health Solutions portal with your member ID.
You can also use the OTC Health Solutions app to shop or check your balance. If you exceed your allowance, you pay the difference out of pocket. Always activate your card before use.
The card simplifies purchases. It ensures you can access benefits without hassle.
Ways to Shop with CVS OTC Wellcare
The CVS OTC Wellcare program offers three main ways to shop. You can visit a participating CVS store and use your card at the register. Not all CVS locations participate, so check the store locator.
Online shopping is available at the CVS OTC Health Solutions website. Orders ship free with no minimum, and you can browse the catalog. Phone orders can be placed at 1-888-628-2770, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 8 PM.
Each method is designed for convenience. Choose the one that fits your lifestyle.
Benefits of the Program
The CVS OTC Wellcare program saves money on everyday health items. Members pay nothing out of pocket for eligible products within their allowance. This reduces financial stress for health needs.
The program offers flexibility with in-store, online, and phone options. It includes trusted brands and CVS Health products. Free shipping on online orders adds value.
Access to wellness products supports better health. The program encourages proactive self-care.
Limitations and Restrictions
The CVS OTC Wellcare benefit has some limits. Allowances vary by plan and may not roll over to the next period. Check your plan’s Evidence of Coverage for details.
Not all CVS stores participate, such as those inside Target or Schnucks. Some items may not be available in all stores. You’re responsible for costs exceeding your allowance.
Understanding these limits helps you plan purchases. Always review your plan’s rules.
How to Check Your Balance
Checking your CVS OTC Wellcare balance is easy. Log into the OTC Health Solutions portal or app to see your remaining funds. Your balance is updated in real time.
You can also call 1-888-628-2770 to check via phone. Have your member ID ready. In stores, ask a cashier to verify your balance at checkout.
Knowing your balance prevents overspending. It helps you maximize your benefit.
Tips for Maximizing Your Benefit
To get the most from the CVS OTC Wellcare program, follow these tips:
- Plan Purchases: Review the OTC catalog to prioritize needed items. Focus on essentials like vitamins or cold remedies.
- Shop Early: Use your allowance before it expires, as most plans don’t allow rollovers.
- Use the App: The OTC Health Solutions app helps track your balance and find eligible items.
- Combine with Sales: Look for CVS promotions on eligible items to stretch your allowance.
These steps ensure you use your benefit wisely. They help you stay within your budget.
Common Products Covered
The CVS OTC Wellcare program covers many everyday items. Popular choices include pain relievers like ibuprofen, antacids, and allergy medications. First aid supplies, such as bandages and antiseptics, are also eligible.
Vitamins and supplements, like vitamin D or calcium, are often covered. Some plans include personal care items like toothpaste and sunscreen. Check your catalog for specifics.
These products address common health needs. They make the benefit practical and useful.
Comparing Wellcare OTC to Other Programs
The CVS OTC Wellcare program is similar to other Medicare Advantage OTC benefits. Here’s a comparison of key features:
| Program | Provider | Allowance Range | Shopping Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wellcare OTC | CVS | $25-$120/quarter | In-store, online, phone |
| Aetna OTC | CVS | $25-$100/month | In-store, online, phone |
| Humana OTC Allowance | Various | $25-$275/quarter | In-store, online (CenterWell) |
Wellcare’s program is flexible but may have lower allowances. Check your plan for details.
Challenges of the Program
The CVS OTC Wellcare program has some challenges. Not all CVS stores participate, which can limit access. Check the store locator to find eligible locations.
The allowance may not cover all needs, especially for larger households. Online or phone orders may take up to 7-14 days to arrive. Shortages of popular items can also occur.
Planning ahead and checking availability help overcome these issues. Your doctor or pharmacist can offer guidance.
Who Can Use the Benefit?
The CVS OTC Wellcare benefit is for Wellcare Medicare Advantage or Medicaid plan members. Eligibility depends on your specific plan. Not all plans include the OTC benefit.
Members typically need a BMI over 30 or weight-related conditions for weight loss-related items. Diabetics benefit from glucose monitors or related supplies. Always confirm with your plan provider.
Your doctor can verify eligibility. They’ll ensure the benefit aligns with your health needs.
How to Order Online or by Phone
To order online, visit the CVS OTC Health Solutions website. Create an account with your member ID, date of birth, and email. Browse the catalog, add items to your cart, and check out.
For phone orders, call 1-888-628-2770, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 8 PM. Use the automated system 24/7 or speak to an agent. Have your member ID and product codes ready.
Both methods offer free shipping. Orders typically arrive within 7 days.
Long-Term Use of the Benefit
The CVS OTC Wellcare benefit is typically renewed quarterly or monthly, depending on your plan. Unused funds usually expire at the end of each period. Check your plan’s rules to confirm.
Regular use helps manage ongoing health needs, like allergies or pain relief. Pairing the benefit with healthy habits, like diet and exercise, supports overall wellness. Consistent use maximizes value.
Keep track of your allowance to avoid missing out. Plan purchases around your health needs.
Ethical and Access Considerations
The CVS OTC Wellcare program’s popularity has strained supply for some items. Shortages, noted in 2023 and 2024, can affect availability. This raises concerns about equitable access.
The benefit’s cost-free nature is a plus, but limited allowances may not meet all needs. Wealthier members may supplement out-of-pocket, creating disparities. Public health efforts should focus on fairness.
Healthy habits remain crucial. The OTC benefit should complement, not replace, lifestyle changes.
Summary
The CVS OTC Wellcare program provides a valuable benefit for Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members. With a quarterly or monthly allowance, members can buy eligible OTC items like vitamins and pain relievers at no extra cost. Shopping is easy in-store, online, or by phone, though limits and availability can be challenges. Using the Wellcare Spendables™ Card and healthy habits maximizes this benefit.
FAQ
What is the CVS OTC Wellcare program?
It’s a benefit for Wellcare Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members. You get a preloaded card to buy OTC items like vitamins and bandages. Shop in-store, online, or by phone.
How do I use the Wellcare Spendables™ Card?
Use it at participating CVS stores, online, or by phone. Present it at checkout or log in with your member ID. Pay out of pocket if you exceed your allowance.
What items are covered in the program?
Eligible items include pain relievers, vitamins, first aid supplies, and some groceries. Check the OTC catalog or look for blue tags. Prescription drugs are not covered.
How can I check my OTC balance?
Log into the OTC Health Solutions portal or app. Call 1-888-628-2770 or ask a cashier in-store. Your balance updates in real time.
What if I can’t find a participating CVS store?
Not all CVS locations participate, like those in Target. Use the CVS store locator or call 1-888-628-2770. Online or phone orders are alternatives.