Understanding Your Healthy Living Card
A "Walmart Healthy Living card" is not a single, universally issued card but rather a brand name for a supplemental health benefit card, often managed by a third-party company like Healthy Benefits+. These cards are funded by specific Medicare Advantage or other health insurance plans and are restricted to purchasing certain health-related items. The exact allowance amount, expiration rules, and eligible product categories depend entirely on your health plan's specific terms.
How Your Plan Determines Eligibility
Your health plan sets the rules for what your card covers. Some plans might only cover over-the-counter (OTC) medications and first aid supplies, while others may include a grocery benefit for healthy foods. The list of approved items can also change from time to time. Therefore, it is critical to log in to your plan's portal, often on a site like HealthyBenefitsPlus.com, or check your welcome packet to review your specific benefits.
Eligible Items You Can Buy
While eligibility varies, many cards cover common health and wellness products available at Walmart. Below are some of the most frequently covered categories.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications and Wellness Products
This is one of the most common categories for these benefit cards. Covered items often include:
- Allergy Relief: Medications like antihistamines and nasal sprays.
- Pain Relievers: Products such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin.
- Digestive Health: Antacids and other stomach-soothing medications.
- Cold and Flu: Cough drops, decongestants, and fever reducers.
- Vitamins and Supplements: A wide range of multivitamins and dietary supplements.
- First Aid: Bandages, antiseptics, gauze, and medical tapes.
Personal Care Items
Certain personal care items deemed medically necessary or health-related may also be covered. Examples can include:
- Oral Care: Toothpaste and dental floss.
- Eye Care: Over-the-counter eyedrops and lens care.
- Skin Care: Medicated lotions and creams.
- Foot Care: Products like insoles and antifungal creams.
Healthy Food and Groceries
Some plans offer an additional grocery benefit for nutritious food purchases. These benefits often include:
- Fresh Produce: Fruits and vegetables.
- Lean Proteins: Fish, poultry, and meat.
- Dairy: Milk and certain dairy products.
- Whole Grains: Whole-grain bread and cereal.
Home Health and Medical Supplies
For some plans, home health items are also covered, including:
- Blood Pressure Monitors: Devices for at-home health tracking.
- Heating Pads and Wraps: Pain relief devices.
- Incontinence Supplies: Underpads, briefs, and liners.
- Compression and Supportive Items: Compression socks and braces.
Items You Cannot Buy with Your Card
Just as important as knowing what you can buy is understanding what is excluded. The card generally cannot be used for:
- Alcohol or tobacco products.
- Firearms and ammunition.
- Cosmetic products, including teeth whitening kits or wrinkle reducers.
- Entertainment items, general merchandise, or electronics.
- Prescription medications, which are covered by a different pharmacy benefit.
Comparison: Shopping In-Store vs. Online
Choosing how to shop with your card can affect your experience. Here is a comparison of in-store and online purchasing at Walmart.
| Feature | In-Store Shopping | Online Shopping (via Walmart.com) |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Method | Swipe your card at checkout; it acts like a debit card. | Enter the 17-digit card number and 4-digit security code as a gift card. |
| Finding Eligible Items | Look for shelf tags or use the Healthy Benefits+ mobile app to scan barcodes. | A designated section or browsing via the Healthy Benefits+ website automatically filters eligible items. |
| Payment for Non-Covered Items | Pay for ineligible items separately with another payment method. | A secondary payment method must be added to your order for ineligible purchases. |
| Shipping Costs | Not applicable for in-store purchases. | Shipping costs are typically waived on orders paid with the benefit card. |
| Balance Tracking | Check your online account or ask a customer service representative. | Your balance is visible online when you check out. |
Maximizing Your Benefits
To ensure you get the most from your card, follow these tips:
- Read Your Plan Documents: The most accurate information about your specific benefits, balance, and expiration dates comes from your health plan.
- Monitor Your Balance: Benefits often expire at the end of a period (e.g., quarterly), and unused funds are lost. Track your allowance to spend it before it disappears.
- Use the Mobile App: Healthy Benefits+ offers a mobile app for finding eligible items and tracking your balance on the go.
- Combine Purchases: When shopping, separate eligible and ineligible items to make checkout smoother. If your total exceeds the card's balance, be ready with an alternative payment method.
- Utilize Online Perks: For online shoppers, the waived shipping is a significant benefit, especially for large or heavy items.
Conclusion
A Walmart Healthy Living card is a valuable tool for managing your health and wellness expenses. By understanding that eligibility depends on your specific health plan and learning which product categories are generally covered, you can effectively use your allowance for OTC medications, healthy foods, and other beneficial items. Always refer to your plan's details and utilize the online resources to keep track of your balance and ensure your purchases are covered. This proactive approach will help you maximize your benefits and support your overall health. For detailed information and to manage your account, visit the official Healthy Benefits Plus website.
