Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans 2027: Benefits, Costs & Changes
Aetna Medicare Advantage plans for 2027 will include HMO, PPO and Special Needs Plan options in eligible U.S. markets. Aetna says its Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans will be offered in 41 states plus Washington, D.C., with approximately 57 million Medicare-eligible people living in areas where its plans are accessible. Aetna will offer at least one $0 monthly plan-premium option in each county where it offers Medicare Advantage plans. However, some existing Aetna plans will end December 31, 2026. Check your ZIP code and Annual Notice of Change before enrolling for 2027.
Aetna, a CVS Health company, announced its 2027 Medicare insurance offerings on October 3, 2026. The company is emphasizing affordable HMO coverage, prescription drug benefits, preventive services and additional support for members with chronic health conditions.
But the biggest question for many Medicare beneficiaries is not simply whether Aetna offers a plan. It is whether their existing doctors, medications and benefits will remain covered next year.
This guide explains Aetna’s announced 2027 benefits, plan changes, potential costs and how to compare coverage before Medicare Open Enrollment ends.
Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans 2027: Key Highlights
| 2027 Feature | What Aetna Announced |
|---|---|
| Medicare Advantage availability | MA-PD offerings in 41 states plus Washington, D.C. |
| $0 plan-premium option | At least one in every county where Aetna offers Medicare Advantage |
| Dental, vision and hearing | Included benefits, with coverage details varying by plan |
| Fitness benefit | SilverSneakers basic fitness membership |
| Tier 1 prescriptions | $0 copays at preferred pharmacies on Aetna MA-PD plans |
| Preventive services | $0 copays for specified covered in-network services |
| HMO options | Expanded Prime HMO offerings in selected markets |
| Extra Benefits Card | Available on select plans |
| Special Needs Plans | Expanded chronic-condition-focused offerings |
These are company-wide announcements, not guarantees that every listed benefit is available on every individual plan.
Source: CVS Health — Aetna 2027 Medicare Announcement.
What Is Changing With Aetna Medicare Advantage in 2027?
Several important changes affect Aetna’s 2027 Medicare offerings.
1. Expanded Prime HMO Options
Aetna is expanding its Prime HMO offerings in selected markets.
HMO plans generally use a defined provider network and may require referrals or other care-coordination steps, depending on the plan.
These options may offer lower costs for members who are comfortable receiving routine care through participating providers.
2. Continued Focus on $0 Premium Plans
Aetna says at least one Medicare Advantage plan with a $0 monthly plan premium will be available in every county where it offers Medicare Advantage coverage.
However, a $0 plan premium does not mean free healthcare.
Most beneficiaries must continue paying their Medicare Part B premium, and plan deductibles, copays and coinsurance may apply.
3. Additional Support for Chronic Conditions
Aetna is expanding Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan availability and related care-management support.
These plans are designed for people who meet specific medical eligibility requirements.
4. More Emphasis on Provider Networks
Aetna is continuing its High Value Provider Incentive Program, expanding into two additional states.
On eligible plans, members selecting designated primary care providers may qualify for additional Extra Benefits Card funds or lower costs for selected services.
5. Some Existing Plans Are Ending
Aetna is discontinuing certain Medicare Advantage plans after December 31, 2026.
Members affected by nonrenewal should read their plan notices carefully and compare replacement coverage before the end of the year.
If your Aetna Medicare Advantage plan is ending on December 31, 2026, do not assume that you will automatically receive equivalent coverage in 2027.
Without a replacement Medicare Advantage plan, you may return to Original Medicare beginning January 1, 2027, and lose the prescription drug and supplemental benefits included in your ending plan.
Review your nonrenewal notice and confirm your options directly with Medicare or Aetna.
Does Aetna Have $0 Premium Medicare Advantage Plans in 2027?
Yes. Aetna says it will offer at least one $0 monthly plan-premium option in each county where its Medicare Advantage plans are available.
That does not mean every Aetna plan is free or that every ZIP code has the same options.
| Potential Cost | What to Know |
|---|---|
| Monthly plan premium | May be $0 or higher, depending on the plan |
| Medicare Part B premium | Generally still payable unless another program or plan benefit helps cover it |
| Primary care visits | Many plans advertise $0 copays |
| Specialist visits | Copays or coinsurance may apply |
| Prescription drugs | Costs vary by tier, pharmacy and medication |
| Hospital services | Plan-specific cost sharing applies |
| Out-of-pocket maximum | Varies by plan and helps limit covered Part A and Part B spending under applicable rules |
A $0 monthly plan premium is only one part of your healthcare budget. Compare expected annual spending, including prescription costs, specialist visits and possible hospital expenses.
Aetna Medicare Advantage HMO vs. PPO in 2027
Aetna offers different plan structures in eligible markets. Two common types are HMO and PPO.
| Feature | Aetna HMO | Aetna PPO |
|---|---|---|
| Provider network | Generally emphasizes in-network care | May offer out-of-network coverage at higher cost |
| Primary care provider | May be required or strongly emphasized | Requirements vary by plan |
| Specialist referrals | May be required | Often more flexible, depending on plan |
| Monthly premium | Varies by ZIP code and plan | Varies by ZIP code and plan |
| Best fit | Members comfortable with a coordinated network | Members who value additional provider flexibility |
Out-of-network rules have exceptions, including emergency and urgently needed care. Always check the specific Evidence of Coverage rather than relying on general HMO/PPO descriptions.
What Dental, Vision and Hearing Benefits Does Aetna Offer in 2027?
Aetna says its 2027 Medicare Advantage plans include dental, vision and hearing benefits.
However, the coverage amounts and service limitations vary.
Dental Benefits
- Preventive dental services may be covered.
- Some plans may offer additional coverage for restorative dental procedures.
- Annual allowances, network rules and coverage limits vary.
Vision Benefits
- Routine eye exams may be included.
- Some plans provide an eyewear allowance.
- Frames, lenses and contact lens coverage depend on the plan.
Hearing Benefits
- Routine hearing exams may be included.
- Hearing aid coverage and allowances differ.
- Approved provider or device requirements may apply.
Before enrolling, review the plan’s Summary of Benefits for exact dollar allowances and covered services.
Aetna Medicare Extra Benefits Card for 2027
The Aetna Medicare Extra Benefits Card is available on selected plans and uses CVS Flex Benefits technology.
Eligible members may receive allowances for certain covered products and services at participating retailers.
Benefits may include:
- Approved over-the-counter health products.
- Other plan-specific supplemental benefits.
- Additional eligible items or services for qualifying Special Needs Plan members.
Aetna states that all C-SNP and D-SNP members receive a monthly allowance for eligible OTC products.
Some members with qualifying chronic conditions who meet all applicable requirements may also use allowances for approved everyday expenses, including certain groceries, transportation, personal care products and utilities.
No. These benefits are not universal. Eligibility, permitted purchases, participating retailers and allowance amounts depend on the specific plan and qualifying conditions.
Aetna Prescription Drug Coverage for 2027
Aetna offers prescription coverage through Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans and its standalone SilverScript products.
For 2027, Aetna says all its MA-PD plans include $0 copays for Tier 1 drugs at preferred pharmacies.
But your actual prescription costs depend on several factors.
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Drug formulary | Determines whether a medication is covered |
| Drug tier | Influences copays and coinsurance |
| Preferred pharmacy | May offer lower cost sharing |
| Prior authorization | Some drugs require approval |
| Step therapy | Some plans require trying another treatment first |
| Quantity limits | May restrict how much medication is covered at one time |
Before switching plans, enter every prescription into the official Medicare Plan Finder.
Aetna Special Needs Plans in 2027
Aetna offers Special Needs Plans for beneficiaries who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs)
These plans are designed for people with qualifying chronic medical conditions.
Aetna is expanding C-SNP offerings for 2027, with availability reaching additional states.
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs)
D-SNPs serve eligible individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid.
Benefits and eligibility depend on the state, Medicaid status and individual plan.
Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs)
Some insurers also offer plans for qualifying people who need institutional-level care. Availability and eligibility must be confirmed locally.
Do not assume that qualifying for Medicare alone makes you eligible for a Special Needs Plan.
Is Aetna Medicare Advantage Leaving Your County in 2027?
Aetna is reducing its individual Medicare Advantage footprint in some markets.
Industry reporting based on CMS data indicates that Aetna is exiting approximately 123 counties for individual Medicare Advantage coverage in 2027.
However, that national figure does not identify whether your particular contract is ending.
To find out:
- Read your 2027 Annual Notice of Change or nonrenewal letter.
- Check the name and contract number of your existing plan.
- Visit Aetna’s official Medicare website.
- Enter your ZIP code to view 2027 availability.
- Use Medicare.gov to compare competing plans.
- Call your plan if you are unsure whether coverage continues.
If your plan is ending, you may have a Special Enrollment Period in addition to the regular Annual Enrollment Period. Aetna’s 2027 termination guidance identifies a Special Enrollment Period extending from December 8, 2026, through February 28, 2027, for affected members.
Confirm your individual eligibility and effective coverage date with Medicare before relying on this window.
How to Check Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans by ZIP Code
Step 1: Open Medicare Plan Finder
Visit Medicare.gov Plan Compare.
Step 2: Enter Your ZIP Code
Medicare Advantage plans are offered in specific service areas. The available plans can differ between neighboring counties.
Step 3: Select Medicare Advantage
Choose the coverage type you want to compare.
Step 4: Enter Your Prescriptions
Add your current medications and preferred pharmacies to estimate drug costs.
Step 5: Review Aetna Plans
Look at available Aetna HMO, PPO and eligible Special Needs Plan options.
Step 6: Check Doctors and Hospitals
Verify your preferred providers with the plan and provider offices before enrollment.
Step 7: Compare Total Costs
Review premiums, copays, deductibles, maximum out-of-pocket limits and supplemental benefits.
Aetna Medicare Advantage 2027 Enrollment Dates
| Important Date | What It Means |
|---|---|
| October 15, 2026 | Annual Enrollment Period begins |
| December 7, 2026 | Annual Enrollment Period ends |
| January 1, 2027 | Coverage selected during Annual Enrollment generally begins |
| January 1–March 31, 2027 | Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period for eligible current MA members |
| December 8, 2026–February 28, 2027 | Special Enrollment Period identified by Aetna for qualifying plan nonrenewals |
Enrollment rights differ based on your current coverage and the reason for changing plans.
How Do Aetna’s 2027 Medicare Star Ratings Compare?
CMS released the 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D Star Ratings on October 8, 2026.
These scores measure plan quality and performance using factors such as patient experience, preventive care, chronic-condition management and customer service.
Ratings are assigned at the contract level. One Aetna contract may have a different score from another.
Before enrolling, check the rating associated with your specific 2027 plan.
Read our CMS 2027 Medicare Advantage Star Ratings Guide for the latest nationwide results.
Aetna vs. Humana Medicare Advantage Plans for 2027
Aetna and Humana are major Medicare Advantage insurers, but the best option depends on the actual plans available in your area.
| Comparison | Aetna | Humana |
|---|---|---|
| HMO options | Available in selected markets | Available in selected markets |
| PPO options | Available in selected markets | Available in selected markets |
| $0 premium plans | Available in participating counties | Availability varies by market |
| Dental, vision, hearing | Plan-specific benefits | Plan-specific benefits |
| Prescription coverage | Varies by plan and formulary | Varies by plan and formulary |
| Provider network | Check local Aetna providers | Check local Humana providers |
| 2027 plan exits | Some markets affected | Some markets affected |
For more details, read our Humana Medicare Advantage Plans for 2027 guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Aetna offer Medicare Advantage plans in 2027?
Yes. Aetna announced MA-PD offerings in 41 states plus Washington, D.C. Availability varies by county.
Does Aetna have $0 premium plans for 2027?
Yes. Aetna says at least one $0 monthly plan-premium option will be available in every county where it offers Medicare Advantage plans.
Is Aetna Medicare Advantage being discontinued?
Not nationwide. However, certain Aetna plans and service areas are being discontinued for 2027. Check your plan’s nonrenewal notice.
Does Aetna cover dental care in 2027?
Aetna includes dental benefits in its 2027 Medicare Advantage offerings, but covered services and limits depend on the plan.
Does Aetna offer grocery allowances in 2027?
Some eligible Special Needs Plan members may receive allowances usable for approved groceries and other expenses. The benefit is not available to everyone.
Will Aetna cover prescription drugs?
Aetna offers MA-PD plans and standalone SilverScript coverage. Check each plan’s formulary for your medications.
Does Aetna offer SilverSneakers?
Aetna announced SilverSneakers basic fitness membership as part of its 2027 Medicare Advantage benefits, subject to plan details.
When can I enroll in Aetna Medicare Advantage for 2027?
The Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7, 2026. Other enrollment periods may apply depending on your circumstances.
How do I know if my Aetna plan is ending?
Review your Annual Notice of Change or nonrenewal notice and confirm with Aetna or Medicare.
How do I find Aetna Medicare Advantage plans near me?
Enter your ZIP code in Medicare Plan Finder or Aetna’s official plan comparison tool.
Bottom Line
Aetna Medicare Advantage plans for 2027 will include $0 premium options, prescription drug benefits, dental, vision, hearing and fitness coverage in participating markets.
Aetna is expanding selected HMO and Special Needs Plan offerings while discontinuing some existing plans and service areas.
For current members, the most important action is to check whether their 2026 plan continues into 2027.
For new shoppers, compare the exact Aetna plans available in your ZIP code, including premiums, prescription coverage, provider networks and out-of-pocket costs.
Related BillUnpacked Guides
- CMS 2027 Medicare Advantage Star Ratings
- Humana Medicare Advantage Plans for 2027
- 2027 Medicare Part B Premium
- Social Security 2027 COLA Estimates
Official Sources
CVS Health — Aetna 2027 Medicare Plans Announcement
Aetna Medicare — 2027 Plans and Termination Information
CMS — Medicare Advantage and Part D 2027 Outlook
CMS — 2027 Medicare Advantage Star Ratings
Last reviewed: October 9, 2026. This article summarizes publicly announced Aetna Medicare benefits and CMS information. Exact benefits, eligibility, costs, availability and provider participation vary by plan and service area. BillUnpacked.com is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with Aetna, CVS Health, CMS or Medicare. This content is educational and is not personalized insurance advice.