Health Care Reform Impacts OTC Purchases
Beginning January 1, 2011
The Health care reform Legislation signed into law in March 2010 by the President will impact over the counter (OTC) purchases with Health Care FSA, HRA and HSA accounts beginning January 1, 2011.
OTC drugs, medicines and biological remain eligible with a directive from a provider. OTC drugs, medicines and biological items will no longer be available for purchase using the NBS Debit Card. You may still be reimbursed for these items; however, you must obtain a letter of medical necessity from your provider and submit a copy of the letter along with the receipt as a manual reimbursement.
It is important to note that not all OTC items will be affected, items such as band aids, Contact lens cleaning solution, thermometers, etc. will remain eligible without a letter of medical necessity. The items affected include items in the following categories:
- Acid Controllers
- Allergy & Sinus
- Antibiotic Products
- Anti-Diarrheal
- Anti-Gas
- Anti-Itch & Insect Bite
- Baby Rash Ointments/Creams
- Cold Sore Remedies
- Cough, Cold & Flu
- Digestive Aids
- Feminine Anti-Fungal/Anti-Itch
- Hemorrhoid Preps
- Laxatives
- Motion Sickness
- Pain Relief
- Respiratory Treatment
- Sleep Aids & Sedatives
- Stomach Remedies
*Please contact NBS with questions at 800-274-0503.