Aetna vs Anthem
It's hard to go wrong when choosing between Anthem and Aetna. Both are reputable, well-known health insurance companies. After considering our analysis and reading customer reviews, you'll want to compare the plans in your area to see which company offers the best plan for your needs.
Overview
Aetna
Undisclosed
Anthem
Undisclosed
Ratings
Aetna
Anthem
Reviews
Aetna
Reviews
Anthem
Reviews for Aetna
Helpful Favorable Review
Joe Leahy
January 4th, 2022
Marshfield, MA
DETAILS
Review Source
Aetna is my Medicare supplement. I have had no issues with their handling of any medical visits or procedures. All claims seem to be handled in a timely manner and I receive a monthly activity statement of my benefits
Helpful Critical Review
borzol
April 11th, 2024
DETAILS
Edited April 16th, 2024
My doctor sent the request for a prior authorization of LIDOCAINE 5% OINTMENT on 4/9/24. First time I’ve been told it can take up to 3 days. Next time I called on the fifth day and asked representative Angelica(?) to submit a grievance for such a service. She’s got disconnected. Representative Dan said the process can take up to 17 days. What kind of patients can be satisfied with such service waiting in pain for 17 days?!
Reviews for Anthem
Helpful Favorable Review
Sandy
October 9th, 2019
Oregon, WI
DETAILS
They will not pay for a flu shot if you get it at a pharmacy. You must go to your doctor's office if you want Anthem to pay for it. My local doctor does not have it so I would have to drive some distance to another doctor and I would have to make an appointment. Forget it. I paid for it out-of-pocket. By making it so difficult, they are not encouraging patients to get a flu shot. It's a ridiculous requirement. Flu shots are much less costly than being treated for the flu. I guess they don't see it that way.
Helpful Critical Review
Michele T
January 15th, 2022
Indianapolis, IN
DETAILS
I turned 51 and had my first colonoscopy. This is a preventative service that is supposed to be covered by my insurance. Anthem denied the claim. The doctor who performed the service is in-network but Anthem said the building he performed the service at is out of network so I get a bill for over $1000. This makes no sense whatsoever to me, if the doctor is in-network. I submitted an appeal 2 months ago and they have not given me any sort of update. Every time I call them I get the run around. They are the worst insurance company I’ve ever dealt with!!!
The Final Word
Medicare Advantage plans cover the same services Original Medicare does. Most Medicare Advantage plans go beyond these services with additional perks and coverage. Anthem's Medicare Advantage plans include hearing, vision, and dental benefits.
Aetna's Medicare Advantage plans include prescription home security, SilverSneakers® fitness membership, a 24/7 nurse help line, and assistance finding community resources through Resources for Living®.
For specific plans details and structures, you'll want to look at the plans available in your area.
Both companies offer Medicare supplement insurance (Medigap) plans. Aetna does not offer Medigap plans in all states, so you'll need to check to see what's offered where you live.
Anthem's Medigap plans include SilverSneakers® membership. Anthem also stands out for its offerings of Anthem Extras Packages that offer dental and vision coverage. These packages are beneficial if you've chosen Original Medicare because Original Medicare does not cover dental or vision care.
Anthem offers three prescription drug plans while Aetna offers two. You'll want to compare the covered prescriptions, cost-sharing, premiums, and pharmacy networks to see which plan is ideal for you. Aetna's prescription drug plans offer mail delivery for medications.
