Medicare Advantage OTC benefits may cover supplements at no additional cost

Eating healthy is a smart step toward a long and healthy life. A well-balanced diet is the most important part of nutrition. As people age, a health care provider might recommend they take a nutritional supplement in addition to their diet.

The good news: Some Medicare Advantage plans cover supplements as part of their over-the-counter (OTC) benefit. That’s just one reason people should learn more about their coverage.

If eligible to pay nothing out of pocket with OTC benefits for supplements from the local drugstore, there's no reason not to follow a health care provider’s advice. Learn more about dietary supplements and how the Medicare Advantage OTC benefit card can help get members the products they may need.

In this article:

What is a dietary supplement?

Dietary supplements (also called nutritional supplements) are a lot more than just vitamins or minerals on the pharmacy shelf. They include probiotics, supplemental proteins, fiber, amino acids, fish oil and more. Formulations include pills, powders, gummies, liquids and bars.

People don’t need a prescription for most nutritional supplements. But they should talk to their medical provider to help decide if they are right for them. Some of these products can have side effects, and others can be dangerous if taken the wrong way. Supplements can also interact with prescription medications or cause unintended side effects. Even some foods can interact with prescription medications, so it’s best to speak with a health care provider before taking anything new.

Possible vitamin and mineral deficiencies in older adults

There are a variety of vitamins and minerals a person may need. While most can get them from their diets, some people may need additional supplements. Of course, it’s important people always consult a health care provider before taking any new OTC products, including supplements. Here are a few vitamins and minerals that older adults risk being deficient in:

• Calcium. This mineral is important for properly functioning nerves, muscles, hormones and blood vessels. It can also help build and maintain strong bones. Many Americans get less than the recommended amount of calcium. Older people, including postmenopausal women, absorb less calcium and are at risk of developing fragile bones.
• Vitamin D. This vitamin helps the body absorb calcium, so it is also important for bone health. It can also help the immune system fight off infections. Vitamin D is made naturally when direct sunlight hits the skin (though not through a window). But aging skin, cloudy days and more time indoors can make it harder for older adults to get vitamin D.
• Vitamin B6. This vitamin helps keep nerves and skin healthy. It also helps produce red blood cells and keeps blood sugar levels stable. People who have kidney or autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and others, may be at higher risk for a vitamin B deficiency. About 10 percent of Americans may be deficient in vitamin B6.
• Vitamin B12. Healthy red blood cells and nerves are supported by this vitamin. It can help prevent a type of anemia that can leave a person feeling tired and weak. Certain medications, medical conditions and surgeries can make it harder for some older adults to absorb the vitamin from its food source — animal proteins. Strict vegetarians and vegans may also need to take a supplement or consume fortified foods.

How to use an OTC benefit card for supplements

Some Medicare Advantage plans allow people to purchase vitamins and supplements with their OTC benefit card. And if someone’s looking to use an OTC benefit card with CVS Pharmacy®, the process is easy. Learn more about how to use the OTC benefit.

In stores, people should look for the blue labels on the shelf, which indicate commonly eligible items. Besides supplements, hundreds of other products may be eligible for OTC benefit redemption, including pain relievers, sunscreen and skin care items. Take the basket to the register and present the OTC benefit card.

Not all products are covered by every plan. So, after talking to a provider about which supplements might be beneficial, it might be helpful for people to consult their Medicare Advantage or Medicaid plan. They can assist plan enrollees in understanding how dietary supplements might be covered. If eligible, they can then head to a local CVS® store, where store employees can help them stock up on what they may need.