logo

What's Included in Humana Benefits Plus?

Written By: Nathan Justice
Reviewed By: William Rivers
Published: October 7, 2023
Last updated: March 10, 2024

Humana is a well-known health insurance provider with a wide range of plans and options. One of their offerings is Humana Healthy Benefits Plus, which provides additional perks and services to their members. This initiative is more than just a health plan; it's a comprehensive package designed to cater to the multifaceted needs of its members. 

Are you considering signing up for Humana Benefits Plus but not sure what it offers? It's important to understand the details of any benefits package before making a decision. Let's take a closer look at what the Humana Healthy Benefits Plus Card includes and how it can benefit you.

A Brief Overview of Humana Benefits Plus

Humana Benefits Plus is a comprehensive program offered by Humana, one of the leading health insurance providers in the United States, with over 17 million members nationwide. The Healthy Benefits Plus Program offers a wide range of additional services and discounts that go beyond traditional health insurance coverage.

Humana’s Healthy Benefits Plus Program, also known as Healthy Options Allowance, is an initiative that offers financial support to qualifying members, assisting them in purchasing nutritious foods, over-the-counter drugs, and other health-centric items. One of the key features of the Healthy Benefits Plus Program is the ability to shop for over-the-counter (OTC) health and wellness products.

How Does Humana’s Healthy Benefits Plus Card Work?

Delivered via the Healthy Benefits Plus card — a prepaid debit card — members can purchase eligible items at affiliated retailers across the country. Participants are provided with a certain amount of credits each month that can be used to purchase groceries, vitamins, pain relievers, first aid supplies, and personal care products.

The value of the Healthy Options Allowance differs based on your specific Humana Medicare Advantage plan and location. Allowances per month can range between $35 and $275, translating to an annual provision of $420 to $3,300. Members will find this allowance on the Humana Spending Account Card.

Eligible members can use this card at participating retailers nationwide, just like a regular debit card. These can include major pharmacies, grocery stores, and other approved vendors.

Eligible Items You Can Buy With Humana Card

The Healthy Options Allowance aims to ensure a comprehensive approach to well-being, covering not just medical needs but factors that contribute to a holistic and healthy lifestyle. Here's a general overview of the types of items that might be eligible for purchase with the Humana's Healthy Options Allowance card:

1. Groceries

The allowance can be a valuable asset in ensuring a balanced diet. You can use it for:

  • Fresh Produce: Including fruits, vegetables, and herbs

  • Diverse Protein Sources: From meat and seafood to dairy products

  • Pre-Packaged and Fresh Foods: Ranging from frozen delicacies to fresh deli items

  • Baked Goods: Freshly baked bread, pastries, and other bakery delights

  • Refreshing Beverages: Including approved juices, teas, and more

2. Essential Home Expenses

The Healthy Options Allowance can also provide support for basic living costs such as:

  • Housing: Covering portions of rent or mortgage payments

  • Utility Bills: Including electricity, water, sewer, home heating, and even trash and recycling

  • Communication Needs: Payments for home phone and internet services

3. Assistive Devices

The allowance caters to special needs with mobility and accessibility devices like:

  • Home Adjustments: Grab bars and raised toilet seats to enhance safety

  • Visual Aids: Items for those with visual impairments

  • General Assistance: Tools like reaching aids to make daily tasks more manageable

4. Transportation

The Humana Benefits Plus card can also be used for non-medical and non-emergency transportation provisions. For those times when you need to get around:

  • Ridesharing: Use services like Uber and Lyft

  • Traditional Transits: Taxis and public transportation

5. Household and Personal Necessities

In addition to medications and food, you can also use your Humana Benefits Plus card to maintain your household's hygiene and comfort with:

  • Basic Supplies: From toilet paper and paper towels to cleaning supplies

  • Personal Care: Items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and toothbrushes

  • Climate Control: Fans, space heaters, air conditioners, and furnace filters to ensure a comfortable environment

6. Over-the-Counter Wellness

Above all, Humana wants its members to stay active and healthy. Look after your immediate health needs with

  • Medications: For allergies, colds, flu, and pain relief

  • Supplements: Vitamins and other dietary supplements

  • First Aid Supplies: Ensure you're prepared for minor injuries

  • Digestive Health: Products to promote a healthy gut

7. Pet Care and More

Additional provisions that cater to a holistic lifestyle:

  • Pet Care: Ensure your furry friends are well-fed and entertained with pet food, toys, kitty litter, and even flea shampoos

  • Preparedness for the Unexpected: Equip yourself with batteries, weather radios, flashlights, and bottled water for unforeseen circumstances

  • Pest-Free Living: Engage pest control or exterminator services that accept Visa® debit cards to maintain a healthy living environment

Just like most programs, there are also restrictions on what you can buy using your Humana Benefits Plus card. Items usually excluded from being purchased using the Healthy Options Allowance include:

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Smoking and vaping products, including cigarettes and tobacco

  • Lottery tickets

  • High-calorie, high-sugar, or high-fat ready-to-eat meals

  • Sweets and confectioneries

  • Carbonated beverages

  • Quick-service restaurant foods

  • Processed meat products

  • Caffeinated energy beverages

  • Athletic hydration drinks

Participating Stores and Retailers

Where can you use your Humana Benefits Plus card? The Healthy Options Allowance can be used at the following retailers:

Grocery Stores

Major chains such as Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, Ralphs, and Jewel-Osco are included, along with others like Food Lion, Harris Teeter, Giant Food, and Publix. Additionally, Winn-Dixie, Food City, H-E-B, ACME Markets, Fred Meyer, and several Kroger-affiliated stores like King Soopers, Fry's Food and Drug, and Food 4 Less are participating outlets.

Pharmacies

Leading pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Walmart, and Target are on the list. Many grocery chains with pharmacy services, including Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons, and others mentioned above, also accept the allowance card.

Specialized Health Food Stores

Those keen on organic and health-focused options can shop at Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Trader Joe's. Other choices include Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, The Fresh Market, Fresh Thyme Market, and Earth Fare, with additional options like Lucky's Market, New Seasons Market, and Mother's Market & Kitchen rounding out the offerings.

How to Use Humana Healthy Options Allowance Card

Using the Humana Healthy Options Allowance Card is designed to be straightforward and similar to using any other debit or prepaid card. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to utilize the card:

Step 1: Activate The Card

Before using the Humana Benefits Plus card for the first time, ensure it's activated. Follow the instructions provided with the card, which may involve calling a specific number or visiting a website. Before making a purchase, it's essential to check the available balance on your card. This can usually be checked online, via a mobile app, or by calling the number on the back of the card.

Step 2: Check Eligible Purchases

Familiarize yourself with the list of eligible items you can buy using the allowance card. Avoid items that are not on the approved list.

Step 3: Shop on Participating Stores

Ensure you are shopping at a participating retailer that accepts the Healthy Options Allowance Card.

Step 4: Use the Card

At the checkout counter, use the card as you would any debit or credit card. Swipe or insert the card into the card reader. If prompted, enter the Personal Identification Number (PIN) associated with the card.

Always review the receipt to ensure the correct amount has been deducted and to keep track of your remaining balance. If you need to return an item, the refund process typically follows the store's regular return policy. Any refund amount will be credited back to your allowance card.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Humana Benefits Plus Card?

The Humana Benefits Plus Card is a special card provided to eligible Humana members to assist with expenses related to healthy foods, over-the-counter medications, and other health-related costs.

2. How do I activate my Humana Benefits Plus Card?

Upon receiving your card, you'll find activation instructions included. Typically, you'll need to call a specific number or visit a dedicated website to activate your card.

3. Can I use the card at any store?

The card is accepted at specific participating retailers. It's essential to refer to the list of participating stores and pharmacies provided by Humana or check their official website for an updated list.

4. What can I purchase with the Humana Benefits Plus Card?

The card is primarily designed for buying approved healthy foods, over-the-counter medications, and other health-related items. It's crucial to refer to the list of eligible items to ensure your purchases are compliant.

5. Are there items I cannot purchase with the card?

Yes, certain items are restricted, such as alcohol, tobacco, high-calorie prepared meals, and energy drinks, among others. Always refer to the list of restricted items provided by Humana.

Access Vital Support With Humana Card

The Humana Benefits Plus Card represents a significant stride towards empowering Humana members with better control over their health-related expenditures. By providing financial assistance and access to essential items, the card not only enhances physical well-being but also aids in alleviating potential financial stresses tied to health care. 

Discover the range of healthy choices available to you. Explore our guide to see the comprehensive list of items you can purchase with your Humana Healthy Food Card at Walmart. Make every purchase count towards a healthier you!

Was this article helpful?
YesNo
Nathan Justice manages community outreach programs and forums that help many senior citizens. He completed a counseling program at the University of Maryland’s Department of Psychology.
logo
After years of living under the care of your parents and other family members, the time will arrive for you to reciprocate. At Senior Strong, you can show your loved ones just how much you value them.
642 W 28th St, Los Angeles, CA 90007
(213) 877-8342
Senior Strong © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved