Healthy Extras card
For EasyCare Plus (HMO D-SNP) and Total (HMO D-SNP) member. Your card holds allowances for your over-the-counter (OTC), grocery*, and Flex* benefits and earned member rewards.
How to Use the Healthy Extras Card
First, make sure you activate it. Follow the instructions included on the sticker on the front of your card. The phone number is also on the back of your card. Make sure to activate the card by your effective date, so you can start using it as soon as possible.
Once your card is activated, you can use it for eligible purchases. No PIN or signature is required for in-store purchases — it works just like a prepaid card. Go to the checkout lanes, and simply swipe the card for payment. This card can be used only for eligible items and expenses.
There are a few ways for you to check your card balances:
- Visit mybenefitscenter.com
- Download the OTC Network App for iPhone or Android
- Call the phone number on the back of your card.
If your card is lost or stolen, please call your Care Team immediately at 1-866-783-1444 (TTY: 711). We will cancel your card and send you a new one.
Have the Flexibility to Buy the Things You Need
OTC/Grocery* and Flex* benefits help you pay for the things you need to live well. Every month, your allowance amounts are added to your Healthy Extras card. You can spend the allowances in the way that works best for you—as long as the appropriate items are purchased using the allowance you have available. You can only purchase OTC/grocery items with its allowance and Flex-eligible expenses with its allowance.
Your OTC/Grocery and Flex benefits roll over every month (you have to use them by the end of the year).
| Plan | OTC/Grocery Benefit | Flex Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| VNS Health EasyCare Plus | $2,820/year ($235/month) | Up to $450/year ($37.50/month) |
| VNS Health Total | $3,720/year ($310/month) | Up to $780/year ($65/month) |
Member Rewards
The rewards you earn can be used to buy eligible items anywhere the OTC Network is accepted. Your rewards will be available once your OTC allowance is completely used. Learn more about how to earn rewards and when you will receive them here.
OTC/Grocery Benefit
EasyCare Plus members get $235/month (up to $2,820/year). Total members get $310/month (up to $3,600/year).
For a complete list of eligible items, and how to use your OTC and Grocery benefits, please see the OTC and Grocery Program Catalog.
What You Can Buy with Healthy Extras OTC/Grocery Benefit
Groceries
Healthy foods like milk, cereal, rice, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, and more
Dental Supplies
Toothpaste, dental floss, denture care, and more.
OTC Medications
Antacids, pain relievers, and cold medicine
Everyday Health Items
Bandages, hand sanitizers, eye drops, and more.
Meal Delivery
You can use your card to order nutritious meals from Mom’s Meals® and shop.sunmeadow.com and have them delivered to your door.
Flex Benefit
EasyCare Plus members get $37.50/month (up to $450/year). Total members get $65/month (up to $780/year).
You choose how to use it! You can use your Flex allowance to help pay for certain utilities like electric, gas, telephone, and internet bills. It can also be used to cover items or services above the maximum covered amount for dental, hearing, and vision.
Use Flex for Utilities
Electric
Gas
Internet & Phone
Use Flex for Health Expenses
Dental Care
If you have used your full dental benefit for the year, and you need another procedure or item, like a cap or crown.
Hearing
If you need to replace a hearing aid after you’ve reached the limit per ear every 3 years.
Vision
If you need contacts or eyeglasses (lenses and frames) that cost more than the annual limit, or if you need another pair of glasses or more contact lenses after you’ve reached the annual limit.
How it works
Your Flex allowance receives money over time, which means you won’t have access to the full amount right away.
The balance rolls over after each quarter. This means you can collect money throughout the year to spend on a larger expense. However, be sure to use the money before the end of the year because it won’t roll over into the next year.
Be aware that your Flex allowance can’t be used for other kinds of items or services. If you enroll after 1/1/2025, your Flex benefit amount will be based on when your coverage becomes effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
*Grocery and utility benefits are part of special supplemental benefits for the chronically ill and not all members qualify. Chronic illnesses include diabetes, dementia, heart failure, lung disorders, stroke, and other conditions. Eligibility for this benefit cannot be guaranteed based solely on your condition. All applicable eligibility requirements must be met before the benefit is provided. For details, please contact us.