Where Can I Use My Aetna OTC Card? (2024)

Over-the-counter (OTC) benefits can be complex, but for Aetna insurance members, the OTC card provides a convenient way to purchase health-related items. The question most people have is, “Where can I use my Aetna OTC card?”

This comprehensive guide will explore the specifics of using your Aetna OTC card, understand its benefits, and identify where it can be used.

Where Can I Use My Aetna OTC Card?

For Aetna members, the OTC card is a beneficial tool for managing health expenses. This card allows the purchase of OTC medications, health-related items, and more.^[1] Here is how and where you can use your Aetna OTC card:

How To Use The Aetna OTC Card

Utilizing your Aetna OTC card is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Check Your Balance: It's important to know your available balance before shopping. You can check this online, via the Aetna member portal, or by calling the customer service number on the back of your card.

2. Making Purchases: Your Aetna OTC card can be used at various participating locations. When making a purchase, simply swipe your card at the checkout. Ensure the items you're buying are eligible under the OTC benefits.

3. Ordering Online: Many providers, including CVS, allow you to order OTC items online. Visit the retailer's website, select your items, and use your OTC card for payment at checkout.

4. Phone Orders: Some members may prefer ordering by phone. Call the designated number of the participating provider, choose your items, and provide your OTC card details for payment.

5. In-Store Purchases: Visit any participating store like CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid. You can pick up your OTC items and pay with your Aetna OTC card at the register.

Understanding Aetna OTC Benefits

The Aetna OTC card is designed to make healthcare products more accessible. Members receive a predetermined allowance each quarter for purchasing eligible OTC items. This benefit includes:

• OTC Medications: Pain relievers, cold and allergy medicines, and more.

• Health and Wellness Products: First aid supplies, supportive braces, and similar items.

• Preventative Care Items: Sunscreen, vitamins, and other preventative health products.

Remember, the list of eligible items can change, so it's crucial to stay updated.

Eligible Locations For Using Aetna OTC Card

Your Aetna OTC card is accepted at a variety of locations, ensuring flexibility and convenience in managing your health needs.^[2]

• Major Pharmacy Chains: CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid are just a few of the major chains that accept the Aetna OTC card. These stores offer a wide range of eligible products.

• Supermarkets with Pharmacies: Walmart, Target, and Kroger, among others, provide the convenience of a one-stop shopping experience. You can use your card in the pharmacy section of these supermarkets.

• Specialized Medical Equipment Stores: For more specific health needs, specialized medical stores also accept the Aetna OTC card. These stores offer items like mobility aids and specialized medical equipment.

• Online Pharmacies and Health Retailers: For those who prefer shopping online, many online pharmacies and health retailers accept the Aetna OTC card. This includes retailers like CVS's online store, providing access to a broader range of products from the comfort of your home.

Special Features of Aetna Medicare Flex Card

The Aetna Medicare Flex Card is an innovative solution within certain Medicare Advantage plans. It operates like a prepaid debit card provided to members at the start of their coverage. The card is periodically reloaded with an allowance, which can vary depending on the specific plan. The primary use of this card is to pay for eligible goods and services.

Key features of the Aetna Medicare Flex Card include:

• Aetna Payment Card by PayFlex: This is a preloaded card allowing you to buy over-the-counter (OTC) health and wellness products, such as pain relief medication, first aid items, cold, flu, and allergy medicine, and oral hygiene tools.

• Extra Benefits for Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) Members: If you are enrolled in a D-SNP with Aetna, you gain access to an Extra Benefits Card. This card can be used for everyday expenses, including approved groceries, OTC items, rent/utilities, and transportation.

• Reload Schedule: The OTC benefits are reloaded onto the Aetna Payment card every quarter on the first of the month, providing funds for over-the-counter items on a predictable schedule.

• Usage Locations: The Aetna Payment card and OTC benefits can be used at any CVS Pharmacy nationwide. It's also possible to order online or by phone, but CVS Pharmacy locations inside other stores like Target or grocery stores are not eligible for the benefit.

Maximizing The Card's Benefits

To maximize the benefits of the Aetna Medicare Flex Card, understanding the various plans and options available is crucial. Aetna's 2024 Medicare plans offer a variety of features:

• Expanded D-SNP Products: These plans offer $0 Part D drugs and an Extra Benefits Card with an Extra Supports Wallet, which includes an allowance for items like healthy foods, utilities, rent/mortgage, and more. Members can also earn additional allowances in certain cases.

• Aetna Medicare Payment Card: This card will be expanded to more plans and states, offering a quarterly allowance for out-of-pocket expenses in-network care, and select OTC wellness items.

• Enhanced and Expanded Fitness Benefits: New for 2024, members can enjoy benefits like SilverSneakers memberships, Apple Fitness+, and a fitness reimbursem*nt for various activities.

• Fresh Meal Benefits: A new benefit in 2024, providing freshly prepared meals delivered to members’ homes upon discharge from a hospital stay or skilled nursing facility.

• Wide Range of Healthcare Services Coverage: The card covers copayments for in-network primary and specialist care, and other medical and diagnostic services, depending on the plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Flex Card be used for online purchases?

Yes, in many cases, the Flex Card can be used for online purchases at eligible retailers. This includes online pharmacies and health retailers in the Aetna network.

How do I check the balance on my Aetna Medicare Flex Card?

You can check the balance of your Flex Card by logging into your Aetna member account online, using the Aetna mobile app, or by calling the number on the back of your card.

Is the Aetna Medicare Flex Card available in all states?

The availability of the Flex Card can vary based on geographic location and the specific Medicare Advantage plan you are enrolled in. It's best to contact Aetna or refer to your plan details to confirm availability in your state.

Using Your Aetna OTC Card

To answer, “where can I use my Aetna OTC card?”, it is important to understand the available plans. The Aetna Medicare Flex Card is a significant component of many Aetna Medicare Advantage plans, offering a convenient and flexible way to manage healthcare expenses. With its various features, including the ability to cover various health-related costs and the convenience of being reloadable, the Flex Card can be a valuable tool for Medicare beneficiaries. Understanding how to use and maximize the benefits of the Flex Card effectively can lead to improved healthcare management and overall well-being. Always consult your plan's details and contact Aetna for any specific questions to ensure you are making the most out of your Medicare Advantage plan benefits.

Our detailed guide explains where you can use your Aetna Mastercard Debit Card. Learn more by visiting Senior Strong and exploring our comprehensive resources.