Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare
Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) are prominent players in the Medicare industry, providing three main types of plans: Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement plans (Medigap), and prescription drug plans (Part D).
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, accessible in 42 states. Aetna D-SNPs are offered in 30 U.S. 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 of the ten standardized Medigap plans (A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, and N) available in most states.
Aetna vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: Plan Costs
Regarding premium costs, Aetna usually provides more affordable options.
However, the price you’ll pay for your Medicare 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 | $158.44 | $172.00 |
| F | $224.33 | $254.50 |
| N | $140.61 | $186.50 |
| A | $158.44 | $182.40 |
| 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 | $171.51 | $170.45 |
| F | $217.50 | $237.47 |
| N | $120.45 | $140.68 |
| A | $148.19 | $285.00 |
| 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 | $166.77 | $168.46 |
| F | $200.00 | $212.82 |
| N | $112.62 | $125.13 |
| A | $141.11 | $135.47 |
| 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 | $141.28 | $128.62 |
| F | $175.26 | $172.34 |
| N | $97.63 | $113.40 |
| A | $153.19 | $274.18 |
| These sample quotes are for a 65-year-old female non-smoker in Oklahoma zip code 73008, without any household discounts. | ||
Premium Analysis:
According to this research, Aetna offers premiums in these four states that are, on average, 10-14% more affordable than Blue Cross Blue Shield.
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 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 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. Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield received similar ratings in 2021, 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 improvement areas.
You can utilize the Medicare.gov provider comparison tool for more information about providers that suit your needs. You’ll get handy resources to help you choose your provider so you can make more informed decisions about where to get your healthcare.
Bottom Line
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.
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
FAQs
Can I switch between Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare plans?
Yes, you can switch between Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare plans during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period, which takes place from October 15th to December 7th every year.
Are there any differences in coverage between Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare plans?
Yes, the two companies’ plans may have slight differences in coverage. It’s essential to review each plan’s details carefully to ensure you are choosing one that meets your specific healthcare needs.
