MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
Discontinuation of Coverage of Certain Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products
Illinois Medicaid - HFS·IL · Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine +2 more·Provider Notice
Effective date
Jul 18, 2011
We identified it
Jun 21, 2026
Summary
Effective July 18, 2011, Medical Assistance (Medicaid) will discontinue coverage for most over-the-counter products including analgesics, cough/cold medications, allergy medications, vitamins, and minerals. Limited exceptions exist for pediatric acetaminophen, iron supplements, and antacids for children under 21.
Action Required
By July 18, 2011: Billing team must stop submitting claims for OTC analgesics (except pediatric acetaminophen for children 6 and under), cough/cold products, allergy medications, and vitamins/minerals for Medicaid patients. Update billing system to flag these products as non-covered. For prescription strength Ibuprofen, obtain prior authorization before dispensing. Exception: Continue billing for iron supplements and antacids for patients under 21.