Superior HealthPlan Allocates $18 Million for OTC Items for Members
The recent initiative by Superior HealthPlan aims to provide crucial support to low-income families through its investment in over-the-counter (OTC) items. This step goes beyond the usual Medicaid and CHIP coverage, significantly enhancing the benefits available to those in need.
Superior HealthPlan has declared an investment of $18 million in OTC items from 2020 to 2024, specifically designed for members enrolled in either Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Through these Value-added Services (VAS), families across Texas can access resources that help in practical everyday situations.
According to Mitch Wasden, CEO of Superior HealthPlan, the additional benefits are not just a luxury but a vital aspect of helping improve the health and well-being of their members. He emphasizes, "Over the years, we've learned how impactful these over-the-counter items can be to the families we serve, and we're proud to be able to help them fill this need." This commitment indicates the organization's understanding of the challenges faced by many households.
For members under the STAR, CHIP, STAR Kids, and STAR Health programs, they can avail either $25 or $30 each quarter for essential OTC items. Superior HealthPlan offers a wide range of products, which include:
List of Available Over-the-Counter Items
These OTC items encompass health and personal care essentials, ensuring members can find what they require. The available items include:
- Digestive health products
- Eye, ear, and oral care products
- Household cleaning supplies
- Personal hygiene products
- Sun care supplies
These OTC benefits are just one component of the extensive VAS provided by Superior HealthPlan. Depending on program eligibility, members may also be entitled to additional offerings:
Additional Benefits Offered
- Vision benefits for Medicaid and CHIP members: Members can receive a $150 retail allowance towards select eyeglass frames, lenses, or contact lenses, depending on their program specifics. This allowance is provided annually for STAR+PLUS and CHIP, and every two years for STAR and STAR Kids.
- Annual sports and school physicals for youth: Members aged 4 to 18 can receive one physical per year, with a reimbursement limit of $35. This service is subject to being performed by contracted Superior providers.
- Start Smart for Your Baby® program: This award-winning program aids pregnant women with educational materials and supplies aimed at enhancing prenatal health. It is available once per pregnancy for STAR, CHIP, STAR+PLUS, and STAR Kids members.
As part of its ongoing commitment to the community, Superior HealthPlan updates its Value-added Services annually. That's why new offerings are anticipated on September 1, 2025, further expanding the support available to members. Regularly checking for available OTC items is encouraged for current members.
Superior HealthPlan is dedicated to their mission of supporting low-income communities, providing high-quality health care services and expanding access to vital resources. For more than 25 years, the company has worked tirelessly to transform the health of the communities it serves, aiming to impact one person at a time.
About Superior HealthPlan
Superior HealthPlan has built a strong reputation in Texas for providing high-quality health care, currently serving around 2 million individuals. Their commitment is reflected in their extensive employee base of 3,500 working across all counties, striving for local engagement and community support. Since 2020, the company has made significant contributions totaling $11.9 million toward grants and initiatives to uplift low-income communities, showcasing a commitment to health and wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the value of the OTC items investment by Superior HealthPlan?
Superior HealthPlan has invested $18 million in over-the-counter items for its members.
2. Who is eligible for these OTC benefits?
Members enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP programs are eligible for the OTC benefits offered by Superior HealthPlan.
3. How much can members receive quarterly for OTC items?
Eligible members can receive either $25 or $30 quarterly for essential OTC items.
4. What types of items are included in the OTC benefits?
The OTC benefits include products like digestive health aids, personal hygiene items, and household cleaning supplies.
5. What additional benefits does Superior HealthPlan provide?
In addition to OTC items, members may also access vision benefits and annual physicals, along with the Start Smart for Your Baby® program for pregnant women.
