Have you ever needed something at the drug store, but you couldn’t afford it? That’s a tough situation, but it’s one some people with low income know all too well. 

Dual health plans are for people who have both Medicaid and Medicare. These plans include many extra benefits and features to help make life easier. One of the most popular is being able to get over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and other everyday health care products at no cost. That can help make a big difference to both your budget and your health.

Most dual health plans include OTC products credits. Instead of paying with cash, you can spend your credits to buy approved health care products. If you had a dual health plan, you could use your OTC products credits to buy a wide range of health-related items you may need. When you pay with credits, there’s no cost to you. 

• Antacids, aspirin, cough drops and other OTC medicines
• Toothbrushes, toothpaste, denture cream and tablets
• Eye and ear care items
• Cleansing wipes, bandages and first aid supplies
• Thermometers, blood pressure monitors and more

With most dual health plans, you can order health products through a catalog. You can also order by phone or online. The items are mailed to you. Some dual health plans may also give you a prepaid debit card. If so, you can use it at participating retail stores*.

Starting in 2022, our dual plan benefits will get even better. To make things easier and more convenient, UnitedHealthcare will introduce one combined benefit called “OTC + Healthy Food.” You’ll still get credits to buy OTC products, plus credits to buy healthy food. Only now, both credits will be loaded on a single prepaid card. You can use it to shop at a thousand participating retailers and buy any approved OTC health care products or covered groceries you choose.

Also new in 2022, you’ll have the added option to get healthy food delivered to you from Walmart.com and some other retailers. Credits for OTC products and healthy food will be added to your prepaid card on the first day of each month. Any unused credits will expire on the last day of the month.

*NOTE: Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/area. Limitations and exclusions apply. OTC and Healthy Food benefits have expiration timeframes. Call the plan or refer to your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for more information.