Medicare AdvantageCoverageLow impact
Pulse oximeter OTC benefit for BlueCHiP for Medicare Members
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · Pulmonology, Cardiology, Primary Care +1 more·Physician
Effective date
Jan 1, 2021
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BlueCHiP for Medicare members now have access to an OTC benefit program that includes pulse oximeters, with quarterly allowances ranging from $25-$200 depending on their specific plan. Members receive debit cards to purchase health-related items at major retail stores including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid.
Action Required
No immediate action required for billing team. Inform staff that BlueCHiP for Medicare patients can now purchase pulse oximeters through their OTC benefit program at retail stores instead of through medical equipment suppliers. Update patient education materials to include information about the OTC benefit for pulse oximeters.