How To Apply for OTC Card 2023

New OTC Plus Card allowance can be used for items to promote a healthy lifestyle, from over-the-counter medications to healthy foods, Internet service, and fitness equipment and trackers

Log into MyHFNY.org or call 1-833-684-8472 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) to activate your OTC Plus card and for a list of approved items and participating pharmacies and retailers.

The OTC Plus card is available with Healthfirst’s Life Improvement Plan and CompleteCare plan.

Health insurance can help you stay healthy. Even if you’re in good health, health insurance can help you get access to primary care, to emergency treatment, and to free preventive services. You never know when an accident might happen, or if you’ll get sick and need to go to the hospital. If and when that day comes, the costs could be too expensive, and you and your family might not be able to afford the care you need. That’s where health insurance comes in. It’s good for your health, your wallet, and your future.

Healthfirst is a not-for-profit community organization sponsored by some of the most prestigious and nationally recognized hospitals and medical centers in New York. With more than a million members and growing, Healthfirst has been serving communities in New York City for more than 25 years.

With access to thousands of doctors and specialists, you’re sure to find the service you need nearby. Each of our community offices is fully staffed with representatives who can answer questions—in many different languages—about our health insurance plans and programs, whether you’re a member or not.

Healthfirst plans with an OTC Plus card:

1. Life Improvement Plan (HMO D-SNP)
   $475/quarter allowance
2. CompleteCare Plan (HMO D-SNP)
   $180/month allowance
3. Increased Benefits Plan (HMO)
   $100/quarterly allowance

Any unused balance will automatically expire at the end of each month/quarter, or upon disenrollment from the plan.

myhfny.org Activate Card

Step 1

Activate your card

You’ll need to provide:

• The OTC Plus/OTC card number on the front of the card
• Your Healthfirst Medicare plan Member ID card number
• Your birthdate (two-digit month, two-digit day, and four-digit year; for example, 05/20/1955)

Step 2

Visit a participating location (in person or online)

Take your activated Healthfirst OTC Plus/OTC card to a participating store and select the approved items you want to purchase.

You can use your Healthfirst OTC Plus card at locations such as:

• Retailers, including Duane Reade, Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, Family Dollar
• Many local independent pharmacies
• Home-delivery options through NationsOTC or Mom’s Meals
• GrowNYC locations
• For guidance on how to use your OTC Plus card at farmers’ markets, visit the information stand on site

You can use your Healthfirst OTC card at locations such as:

• Retailers like Duane Reade, Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid, and Family Dollar
• Many local independent pharmacies

For a complete list of participating pharmacies and retailers, visit MyHFNY.org or call our Member Services Representatives at 1-888-260-1010 (TTY 1-888-542-3821), or for Signature (HMO) Member Services team, call 1-855-771-1081 (TTY 1-888-542-3821), 7 days a week, 8am–8pm (October through March) and Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm (April through September).

Step 3

Pay for your items

At local retailers, take your items to the checkout lanes. When you check out, swipe your OTC Plus/OTC card for payment. Purchases of approved items are automatically deducted from your card balance.

Bring your OTC Plus/OTC card with you, as you cannot use your Healthfirst Member ID card or Medicare card to purchase OTC items.

When you shop online, remember to enter your OTC Plus/OTC card’s 16-digit number.

Healthfirst: Member Portal Login

The easiest way to enroll in a Healthfirst plan is to contact us. The sales reps can guide you to the best plan for you and ease the enrollment process.