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Prepare your pharmacy for new Medicare Advantage OTC opportunities in 2026

By Good Neighbor Pharmacy

Medicare Advantage supplemental benefit programs, such as OTC and grocery benefit cards, are transforming how patients access essential products while creating new opportunities for independent pharmacies. These programs allow Medicare Advantage members to use prepaid cards for eligible purchases, driving foot traffic, patient loyalty, and incremental revenue for your business.   


As we enter 2026, we want to ensure that you’re aware of upcoming changes so that you can continue to support your patients effectively. 

NationsBenefits: What You Need to Know for 2026  


Starting January 1, 2026,
NationsBenefits will begin administering the supplemental Flex card benefits program for Humana and CarePlus members.* Here’s what this means for your pharmacy:

  • New cards issued: Humana and CarePlus members received new NationsBenefits Flex cards, effective January 1, 2026.

  • Expanded benefits: All eligible purchases, such as OTC and grocery items, will now be processed through the NationsBenefits platform following approved product eligibility rules. 

How Your Pharmacy Can Benefit: 

  • PioneerRx Users: Your pharmacy is already set up to seamlessly accept NationsBenefits cards through your integrated POS system. 

  • Non-PioneerRx Users: Pharmacies without PioneerRx will require a separate terminal to process NationsBenefits transactions. 

Why This Matters: 

Medicare Advantage OTC benefit programs are a win-win for pharmacies and patients. Members can purchase essential items with ease, while your pharmacy benefits from increased foot traffic, patient loyalty, and revenue. 

Stay tuned for more updates as the 2026 benefit year approaches! 

* Please reach out to Humana and CarePlus for additional information.