Medicare Plans Offered

Plan Type	Aetna	Cigna
Medicare Advantage (Part C)	Yes – HMO, PPO	Yes – HMO, PPO
Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)	Yes – multiple options	Yes – usually 3 tiers
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)	Yes – Plans A, B, G, N	Yes – Plans A, F, G, N
Special Needs Plans (SNPs)	Yes – D-SNP, C-SNP	Yes – D-SNP, C-SNP

Network & Availability

Aetna:

• Available in all 50 states, though plan types vary by ZIP code.
• Strong pharmacy integration with CVS and MinuteClinic services.
• Wide network of physicians, specialists, and hospitals nationwide.

Cigna:

• Available in 30+ states and expanding.
• Strong relationships with local providers and care teams.
• Known for better support in select regions with smaller, focused networks.

Verdict: Aetna offers broader national access, while Cigna may provide a more personalized local experience in the areas it serves.

Benefits & Extras

Benefit	Aetna	Cigna
Dental, Vision, Hearing	Included in most plans	Included in most plans
Fitness Program	SilverSneakers	Silver&Fit
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Allowance	Yes – varies by plan	Yes – available
Telehealth	Integrated with MinuteClinic	Available across most plans
Chronic Condition Support	Yes – with specialized care teams	Yes – with case management
Behavioral Health	Yes – integrated mental health services	Strong focus on behavioral support

Verdict: Both are strong in supplemental benefits, but Aetna's CVS integration gives it a slight advantage for pharmacy users.

Premiums & Out-of-Pocket Costs

• Aetna:
  • $0 premium Advantage plans widely available.
  • Competitive drug prices and extra perks.
  • Part B giveback available in select plans.
• Cigna:
  • Also offers $0 premium Advantage plans in many areas.
  • May offer lower deductibles on some plans.
  • Good value for chronic condition care.

Verdict: Both are budget-friendly, but Aetna may offer more $0 premium plans with CVS perks, while Cigna offers excellent value for ongoing care management.

Enrollment & Ease of Use

Aetna:

• Easy online tools for finding doctors and pharmacies.
• CVS in-store assistance available.
• Mobile app with prescription tracking and benefits management.

Cigna:

• Streamlined enrollment process via phone or online.
• Highly rated customer service.
• Clear plan documents and explanation of benefits.

Verdict: Aetna offers more integrated digital tools, while Cigna stands out for customer service and support clarity.

Who Each Plan Is Ideal For

Beneficiary Type	Best Pick
Frequent CVS or MinuteClinic users	Aetna
Looking for local support & service	Cigna
Chronic condition management	Cigna
Tech-savvy & mobile users	Aetna
Wellness benefits like fitness	Both
Behavioral health or care coordination	Cigna

Pros and Cons

Aetna Medicare

Pros:

• Wide availability across the U.S.
• Strong digital experience and CVS integration.
• Affordable options with solid benefits.

Cons:

• Plan features can vary by region.
• Some members report delays in prior authorizations.

Cigna Medicare

Pros:

• Excellent chronic care and behavioral health focus.
• Personal, local support and care teams.
• Highly rated customer service.

Cons:

• Not available in every state.
• Smaller provider networks in some regions.

Final Verdict: Which Medicare Plan Wins?

Both Aetna and Cigna are reputable Medicare providers with solid plan options and dependable coverage. The right choice depends on your health needs, location, and preferences:

• Choose Aetna if you want broad national coverage, use CVS frequently, and prefer a digital-friendly experience.
• Choose Cigna if you need chronic condition support, want more personalized care, or live in a region where Cigna has strong provider relationships.

Still unsure? Talking to an independent Medicare agent can help you compare both options based on your ZIP code, prescriptions, and healthcare priorities.