Dietary supplements like vitamins are more popular than ever. The supplements you buy from your favorite virtual vitamin shop can ensure your body gets what it needs to thrive, helping you address deficiencies in your diet. Some vitamins may also address specific health concerns or help you improve your physical appearance.
There are plenty of great vitamins worth taking, but will your insurance cover them?
OTC vs. Prescription Vitamins
Generally, insurance companies will not cover vitamins. However, it depends on your plan and where you get the supplements.
OTC, or over-the-counter, vitamins are readily available at grocery stores and pharmacies. Like OTC pain relievers, they don’t require a prescription from your doctor. So, anyone can buy them. Generally, insurance companies won’t pay for OTC vitamins or reimburse you.
Prescription vitamins do require approval from a doctor. Physicians may prescribe vitamins if you have severe deficiencies or when taking these supplements is crucial to your care. If your insurance plan covers prescription drugs, it will cover prescription vitamins. In those cases, the prescription supplement falls under the same umbrella as your typical drug prescription.
As always, familiarize yourself with your insurance policy and don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor. It’s not uncommon for patients to request a prescription if vitamins are essential to their health. Going the prescription route may be more affordable than buying OTC if your insurance covers prescriptions.
If your insurance doesn’t cover vitamins, you can explore options like FSAs and HSAs. While those savings accounts don’t pay for OTC supplements, they can lower costs if your doctor deems vitamins necessary to treat or prevent certain conditions.
What About Medicare?
Medicare Part D won’t cover purchases from a virtual vitamin shop. However, some Medicare plans may cover specific types of supplements. The best examples are Medicare Prescription Drug Plans with enhanced alternative coverage. Like private insurance plans, these Medicare plans typically only cover prescription vitamins.
If you have Medicare Part B, you may get coverage if your doctor considers vitamins crucial to your treatment. Commonly covered supplements include prenatal vitamins, vitamin D supplements for bone disease, muscle loss and more.
Author Resource:-
Alester Brown writes about healthier lifestyle products and tips. She advises people about online weight loss programs, natural and organic health solutions. You can find her thoughts at vitamins products blog.
