About the over-the-counter (OTC) benefit
In 2023, all BCBSRI Medicare Advantage members get a Flexible Benefit Card loaded with dollars to buy a wide range of health-related items such as cold remedies and personal care items. (Find 2022 OTC benefits here.)
2023 OTC benefits by plan
| Plan | Benefit |
|---|---|
| BlueCHiP for Medicare Value (HMO-POS) | $60/quarter |
| HealthMate for Medicare (PPO) | $75/quarter |
| BlueCHiP for Medicare Extra (HMO-POS) | $75/quarter |
| BlueCHiP for Medicare Standard with Drugs (HMO) | $90/quarter |
| BlueCHiP for Medicare Plus (HMO) | $100/quarter |
| BlueCHiP for Medicare Preferred (HMO-POS) | $100/quarter |
| BlueCHiP for Medicare Core (HMO) | $75/quarter |
| BlueCHiP for Medicare Value (HMO-POS) ACCESS Program | $75/month combined food and OTC |
| BlueRI for Duals (HMO D-SNP) | $150/month combined food and OTC |
Current BCBSRI Medicare Advantage members should keep their existing OTC card. Flexible Benefit Card balances will be loaded to their existing OTC card and will be available to use on January 1, 2023.
Three easy ways to use the OTC benefit
Once you receive your Flexible Benefit Card, you can redeem your OTC benefit any of the following ways:
In-person
Use the debit card at the following national retail stores:
- Walmart
- Dollar General
- Family Dollar
- Rite Aid
- Walgreens
- CVS Pharmacy®
You also can download the new MyBenefits app* and scan products in stores to determine eligibility and check your card balance.
Online
Members can log in to the OTC site. Select products, add to basket, and checkout. Items will be shipped to you at no cost.
Phone
Members also can order products over the phone. Items will be shipped to you at no cost.
Important tips and guidelines
- You will receive your online order within 2-5 business days.
- Unused benefits do not roll over to the next benefit period. You cannot exceed your quarterly benefit amount.
- Get more from your OTC benefit and shop around. Prices, brands, and items vary from store to store. Purchases made online or by phone using the catalog may also be different than what you find in stores.
*Download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play is a trademark of Google Inc