Where Can I Use My OTC Card in Queens? Using Your Benefit at Mega Health Rx

Many Medicare Advantage and some Medicaid managed care plans give members an allowance for over-the-counter health items, often loaded onto a card. Mega Health Rx in Forest Hills accepts the OTC Network benefit card, so you can use your allowance on everyday essentials here.

What an OTC benefit is

An over-the-counter (OTC) benefit is a set amount of money — often monthly or quarterly — your plan gives you to spend on approved health products. Many plans use a prepaid card. Unused amounts often do not roll over, so it pays to use it.

How to apply for an OTC card with Medicaid in New York

There is no separate application for an OTC card. The card comes from your health plan, so whether you get one depends on which plan you are enrolled in:

• Regular New York Medicaid (NYRx) does not issue an OTC card. Instead, NYRx covers items on its covered OTC drug list when your doctor writes a prescription for them. We fill those like any other prescription, with free NYC delivery.
• Medicaid and Medicare together (dual eligible)? Many Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) include a monthly or quarterly OTC allowance on a card. This is the most common way Medicaid members in NYC get an OTC card.
• Medicare Advantage. Many Medicare Advantage plans include an OTC allowance. You can compare plans during Open Enrollment, October 15 to December 7.
• Medicaid managed care or HARP plans. Some offer extra benefits. Call the member services number on your plan card and ask whether your plan includes an OTC allowance.

Already in a plan with an OTC benefit but never got a card? Call member services on the back of your plan card and ask them to mail it, or activate it in your plan’s app. Not sure what your plan includes? Bring your cards to the pharmacy and we will help you look.

What you can usually buy

• Pain relievers and fever reducers
• Cold, cough and allergy medicine
• Vitamins and supplements
• First aid supplies
• Oral care, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes and denture care
• Incontinence products
• Blood pressure monitors, thermometers and pill organizers
• Reading glasses and some personal care items

Every plan has its own approved list. The card is checked at the register, so only eligible items are covered.

How to check your OTC card balance

You can check your remaining OTC allowance in any of these ways:

1. The OTC Network app. If your card carries the OTC Network logo, download the free OTC Network app from the App Store or Google Play. Create an account with your card number and the last four digits of your member ID. The app shows your balance and lets you scan items in the store to see whether they are covered.
2. Your health plan’s website or app. Log in to your Medicare Advantage or Medicaid plan’s member portal. The OTC or “extra benefits” section usually shows your balance and the list of approved items.
3. The phone number on the back of your card. The automated line reads your balance back to you.
4. Ask us at the register. Bring your card to 64-51 108th Street and we can check your balance before you shop.

Many plans reset the allowance monthly or quarterly, and unused money often does not carry over. Check your balance near the end of each period so you do not lose it.

Using it at Mega Health Rx

Bring your card to 64-51 108th Street, Forest Hills. Not sure whether your card works here? Call (516) 304-5038 with the card in hand and we will check. You can also add OTC items to your prescription delivery — free anywhere in NYC.

Choosing a plan with an OTC benefit

If you are reviewing Medicare plans during Open Enrollment (October 15 to December 7), the OTC allowance is one benefit worth comparing, alongside the drug formulary and your pharmacy being in network. See Medicare pharmacies in Forest Hills and our Part D open enrollment guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my OTC card at Mega Health Rx?

Yes. We accept the OTC Network benefit card. Call us with your card to confirm it works here.

What can I buy with an OTC benefit card?

Usually pain relievers, cold and allergy medicine, vitamins, first aid, oral care and other approved health items. Each plan has its own list.

Does my OTC balance roll over?

Often not. Many plans reset the allowance monthly or quarterly. Check your plan details.

How do I apply for an OTC card with Medicaid in New York?

There is no separate application. OTC cards come from health plans. Regular New York Medicaid (NYRx) does not issue a card but covers items on its OTC drug list with a prescription. Many Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans and Medicare Advantage plans include an OTC allowance card. Call member services on your plan card to ask.

How do I check my OTC benefits?

Use the OTC Network app, your plan’s member website or app, or the phone number on the back of your card. We can also check your balance at the register.