Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare
When choosing Medicare coverage, Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) consistently rank among the most trusted and widely available options.
Both insurers offer a range of plans – including Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement (Medigap), and Part D prescription drug plans – but differ significantly in pricing, provider networks, and regional accessibility.
Aetna appeals to cost-conscious consumers with competitively priced plans and national consistency. At the same time, BCBS is favored for its broad provider network and strong presence in the Medigap market.
Each company has unique strengths, from Aetna’s integration with CVS Health and widespread Medicare Advantage availability to BCBS’s extensive Medigap options and regionally tailored services.
Understanding how these insurers compare across plan types, costs, coverage, and added perks can help you make an informed decision tailored to your healthcare needs and financial situation.
Key Takeaways:
- Aetna typically offers more affordable premiums than BCBS.
- BCBS has a broader network of medical providers than Aetna.
- Both companies maintain strong financial and customer service ratings.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Company Highlights
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Third-largest for-profit Medicare Advantage provider in the U.S. | Ranks lower in customer satisfaction surveys compared to BCBS |
| Aetna Medicare Advantage plans usually include prescription drug coverage | Fewer Medigap plan offerings than BCBS |
| Many Aetna plans cover wellness programs | Medigap plans are not available in all states |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Third largest insurance provider in the U.S. | Online customer satisfaction varies among different BCBS companies |
| Offers a larger provider network than Aetna | Some policies can be more expensive than competitors |
| Leads the market in Medigap plan sales | Medicare Advantage plans are not available in some states |
Aetna Medicare Plan Availability
Aetna offers Medicare Advantage plans in 49 states and Washington, D.C. Aetna’s prescription drug plans (Part D) are available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Aetna also provides Medicare Eagle plans for veterans, which are accessible in 42 states. Aetna D-SNPs are offered in 30 states.
Aetna’s Medigap plans are available in all states except Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, and Washington. These offerings include Medigap Plans A, B, C, D, F, G, and N.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Plan Availability
Blue Cross Blue Shield provides Medicare Advantage plans in 47 states and Puerto Rico, excluding Alaska, Mississippi, and Wyoming.
BCBS offers prescription drug plans in all states except Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oregon, and Washington.
Additionally, BCBS offers Medicare Supplement plans in all 50 states, including nine standardized Medigap plans (A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, and N) available in most states.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Medicare Advantage Plan Costs
Aetna is known for offering many $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans in many service areas. Even their plans with premiums tend to be competitively priced.
Aetna often includes dental, vision, hearing, fitness, and over-the-counter benefits at no extra charge.
Most of their plans come with:
- $0 or low monthly premiums
- $0 copay for primary care visits (in some plans)
- Moderate copays for specialist visits
- Prescription drug coverage included
- An annual maximum out-of-pocket (MOOP) between $3,000 and $7,000, depending on the plan and location
Due to Aetna’s parent company relationship with CVS Health, additional savings may be available for those using CVS pharmacies.
Blue Cross Blue Shield also offers $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans, but pricing varies more because BCBS operates through regional affiliates.
In some areas, BCBS plans are extremely competitive; in others, they may have higher premiums for similar benefits.
In general, BCBS Advantage plans feature:
- Varying monthly premiums (from $0 to $50 or more)
- Copays that are comparable to Aetna’s for primary and specialist visits
- Prescription drug coverage is often included
- MOOP typically ranges between $3,500 and $7,550, depending on plan type and region
BCBS plans might offer richer local provider networks, which could justify a slightly higher cost in some areas.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Medigap Plan Costs
Regarding Medigap premium costs, Aetna usually provides more affordable options.
However, the price you’ll pay for your Medigap plan depends on several factors, such as your specific plan, location, age, and whether or not you use tobacco.
Below, you’ll find a comparison of the premiums for the two companies and their most popular Medigap plans across Florida, Texas, Illinois, and Oklahoma:
| Medigap Plan | Aetna | BCBS of Florida |
|---|---|---|
| G | $229.82 | $246.50 |
| F | $269.23 | $273.89 |
| N | $154.69 | $203.70 |
| A | $167.93 | $199.30 |
| These sample quotes are for a 67-year-old female non-smoker in Florida zip code 32507, without any household discounts. | ||
| Medigap Plan | Aetna | BCBS of Texas |
|---|---|---|
| G | $202.42 | $184.07 |
| F | $256.65 | $256.45 |
| N | $142.11 | $151.91 |
| A | $163.02 | $308.00 |
| These sample quotes are for a 68-year-old male non-smoker in Texas zip code 79938, without any household discounts. | ||
| Medigap Plan | Aetna | BCBS of Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| G | $239.82 | $216.51 |
| F | $287.47 | $266.63 |
| N | $161.94 | $188.44 |
| A | $202.84 | $169.72 |
| These sample quotes are for a 66-year-old male non-smoker in Illinois zip code 60643, without any household discounts. | ||
| Medigap Plan | Aetna | BCBS of Oklahoma |
|---|---|---|
| G | $169.52 | $147.53 |
| F | $210.33 | $197.67 |
| N | $117.12 | $130.07 |
| A | $183.93 | $329.02 |
| These sample quotes are for a 65-year-old female non-smoker in Oklahoma zip code 73008, without any household discounts. | ||
Medigap Premium Analysis:
According to this research, Aetna offers premiums in these four states that are, on average, 19-30% more affordable than Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Part D Costs
If you’re purchasing a standalone Part D plan (typically for Medigap users), both Aetna and BCBS offer these plans separately.
Aetna’s Part D plans usually have lower premiums, with some starting under $10 per month and offering competitive copays on generics.
BCBS Part D plans may offer richer formulary options and stronger local pharmacy networks, but premiums may be slightly higher, often ranging from $20 to $40 per month.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Cost Summary
When comparing plan costs between Aetna and BCBS:
- Aetna often provides lower premiums and more uniform pricing across states, especially for Medicare Advantage and Medigap Plan G or N.
- BCBS may have stronger regional networks and value-added services, but due to its decentralized structure, costs can vary more.
- Both offer $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans, but total out-of-pocket costs depend on your medical usage, network access, and prescription needs.
To get the most accurate picture, reviewing plan options specific to your zip code and comparing premium costs, copays, and coverage details side by side is best.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Extra Perks
Aetna
- Standalone dental and vision policies, with dental discount cards, and free vision exams as required.
- Several Aetna Medicare Advantage plans offer access to the SilverSneakers fitness and wellness program.
- Aetna Medigap plan members have access to the Attain by Aetna wellness program.
Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Several BCBS Medicare Advantage plans offer access to the SilverSneakers fitness and wellness program.
- Florida Blue members can access Blue365, a health and wellness discount program.
- Some BCBS plans offer transportation services, coverage for over-the-counter health products, and gift card rewards.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Reputation
Medicare Star Ratings evaluate the quality and performance of prescription drug and health insurance plans. In 2021, Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield received similar ratings, with Aetna having a slightly higher customer satisfaction score.
Both companies have over 80 years of experience and maintain strong financial ratings. However, beneficiaries should consider region-specific ratings, as each company has strengths and areas for improvement.
You can utilize the Medicare.gov provider comparison tool for more information about providers that suit your needs. You’ll also get handy resources to help you choose your provider and make more informed decisions about where to get your healthcare.
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage: A Closer Look
Medigap (Medicare Supplement insurance) and Medicare Advantage (Part C) are two very different ways to boost your Medicare coverage.
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what they do, what they offer, and how to decide which one’s right for you.
| Structure and Coverage Medigap works alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B). It helps pay for costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. With Medigap, you maintain your Original Medicare benefits and add a supplemental policy to reduce your share of costs. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare and provides coverage through a private insurance company. These plans include all Part A and B services, and many also bundle in additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage. |
| Premium Costs Medigap plans usually have higher monthly premiums, but they help reduce your expenses when you use healthcare services. Medicare Advantage plans tend to have lower or even zero-dollar premiums, but you’ll generally pay more in copayments and coinsurance throughout the year. |
| Provider Access Medigap policies allow you to see any doctor or visit any hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare. There are no provider networks, so you have greater flexibility in choosing your healthcare providers. Medicare Advantage plans typically have networks, such as HMOs or PPOs. You may need to select doctors from within the network and get referrals to see specialists. Some plans limit coverage to specific geographic service areas. |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs Medigap covers most medical expenses, resulting in predictable out-of-pocket costs. Some plans, such as Plan G, may leave you only responsible for the Medicare Part B deductible. Medicare Advantage plans often have lower monthly premiums but involve more frequent copayments and coinsurance, which can add up quickly. |
| Simplicity and Control Medigap offers more predictable coverage and freedom of provider choice. You’ll likely deal with fewer billing surprises and enjoy nationwide access to care. Medicare Advantage is better suited for those who prefer lower upfront costs and want their coverage bundled into a single plan, even if that means accepting limitations on where and how they receive care. |
| Travel and Portability Medigap coverage is ideal for those who travel often within the United States. Coverage is consistent wherever Medicare is accepted. Medicare Advantage plans may restrict your care to providers within a local service area. While emergency care is covered anywhere in the U.S., routine care may not be, especially in HMO plans. |
Bottom Line: Medigap Wins
While both Medigap and Medicare Advantage serve important roles in the Medicare landscape, Medigap stands out as the more dependable and flexible option for many beneficiaries. Its nationwide provider access, predictable out-of-pocket costs, and consistent coverage make it especially appealing to those who value freedom of choice and financial stability.
Unlike Medicare Advantage plans, which often involve networks, prior authorizations, copays, and fluctuating annual costs, Medigap offers a streamlined and transparent healthcare experience.
Medigap is a strong and often superior solution for individuals who travel frequently, require regular medical care, or want peace of mind knowing that most costs are covered.
Though it comes with a higher monthly premium, the reduced financial risk and greater control over care can make it a more valuable long-term investment.
Comparing health insurance companies like Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield can be challenging due to the many variables involved. However, both companies have a strong history of excellent performance and financial ratings.
- Aetna is likely better if you value consistency, national access, integrated wellness benefits, and budget-friendly premiums.
- If you want regionally tailored plans with potentially stronger local networks and a more established legacy brand, BCBS may be a better fit, especially in areas where the local affiliate is well-regarded.
It’s important to evaluate the plans available in your area and consider your financial situation and healthcare needs. Key differences may lie in plan availability, Medigap offerings, and additional benefits.
Our team of licensed agents can help you compare plans and providers – we’re here to help find the perfect fit for you.
Sources: Aetna Medicare Plans | Blue Cross Blue Shield | Medicare Plan Finder Tool
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, you can only switch Medicare Advantage plans during specific enrollment periods, such as the Annual Election Period (October 15 – December 7) or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31). Outside those windows, a Special Enrollment Period may apply if you meet certain criteria, such as moving out of your plan’s service area or losing other coverage. Unless one of these conditions applies, you cannot switch mid-year.
Not necessarily. Each Medicare Advantage plan contracts with its own network of doctors and hospitals. While both Aetna and BCBS may offer plans in the same region, their provider networks often differ. It’s important to confirm whether your preferred doctors and specialists are in-network for the specific plan you’re considering from either carrier.
Aetna often includes prescription drug coverage (Part D) in its Medicare Advantage plans and strongly integrates with CVS pharmacies, offering convenience and preferred pricing for many medications. Blue Cross Blue Shield also includes drug coverage in many of its plans, but the formulary (list of covered drugs) and pharmacy partnerships can vary by regional affiliate. Comparing formularies side-by-side is essential if you take specific medications.
If you move out of your current plan’s service area, you typically qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to select a new Medicare Advantage plan. Aetna’s plans may be easier to transfer because of their broader national footprint and uniform structure. With BCBS, a move could mean switching to a different affiliate, with different benefits, networks, and premiums. Medigap portability also varies by affiliate and state.
Aetna frequently includes memberships to fitness programs like SilverSneakers and offers wellness product discounts through CVS partnerships. Blue Cross Blue Shield often participates in similar fitness programs but also offers access to Blue365, a member-exclusive program with discounts on fitness gear, nutrition, vision care, and more. While both offer value, Aetna’s perks tend to be more pharmacy-integrated, while BCBS leans toward broader lifestyle discounts.
Yes, Medigap and Part D prescription plans are separate products. You could have a Medigap policy from Aetna and a standalone Part D drug plan from Blue Cross Blue Shield, or vice versa. It’s important to ensure that your chosen Part D plan covers your medications and preferred pharmacies, regardless of the Medigap provider.
Neither company offers VA-specific Medicare plans, but both offer Medicare Advantage plans that may work well alongside VA benefits. Some Aetna plans are tailored to dual-eligible or low-income populations, including veterans. Similarly, certain BCBS affiliates offer plans designed for individuals who use the VA health system but want access to non-VA providers. Comparing local availability is key to determining which offers the best coordination with your VA benefits.
