Frequently Asked Questions

Medicare doesn't have to be confusing. Listed below are a few frequently asked questions and answers to help you navigate the Medicare program and learn about your coverage options.

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for:

• People 65 and older.
• Those younger than 65 with certain disabilities or end-stage renal disease.
• U.S. citizens and permanent legal residents of at least 5 continuous years.

There are 4 parts of Medicare: Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D.

What is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans (also called Medicare Part C) are private health insurance plans. They provide the same coverage as Medicare Part A and Part B. They also include additional coverage such as prescription drugs (Part D), vision, dental and a fitness benefit. 

Am I eligible for Medicare Advantage?

To qualify for a Medicare Advantage plan, you must meet two requirements. First, you must have both Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. Second, you must live in the service area for a particular Medicare Advantage plan that is accepting new members. To find out if you're eligible, call a licensed insurance agent^* at 1-800-891-6309, TTY: 711, 24/7. They can review your eligibility and see if you're eligible for an Aetna Medicare Advantage plan.

What Aetna® plans are available?

Aetna offers several types of Medicare Advantage plans:

• Aetna Medicare^SM Plan (HMO)
• Aetna Medicare Prime Plan (HMO)
• Aetna Medicare^SM Plan (PPO)
• Aetna Medicare Prime Plan (PPO)

You may have other plan options available.

When can I enroll?

Are you enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan for the first time? If so, you will be able to enroll in a plan during your Initial Enrollment Period around your 65th birthday. Your IEP is the 7-month period that begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birthday month and ends three months afterward. There is an exception if your birthday falls on the first of any month, your 7-month IEP begins and ends one month sooner.

Or you can enroll during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. If you've recently moved or lost coverage, you may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period that lets you join a Medicare Advantage plan outside of the main enrollment periods.

How much does a Medicare Advantage plan cost?

Your monthly plan premium and plan out-of-pocket costs will vary depending on:

• The Aetna Medicare Advantage plan you choose.
• The medical care you receive.

Shop for Aetna Medicare Advantage plans with additional benefits that Medicare does not cover.