Aetna Medicare Supplement Plan G Review
Let’s talk about Aetna – a name just about everyone recognizes in the world of health insurance. They’ve been around for over 160 years, and when it comes to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, they’ve been a trusted player for decades.
If you’re shopping around for Medigap coverage and want to go with a brand that’s rock-solid and well-established, Aetna is likely already on your radar.
Over the years, I’ve worked with Aetna in several states, and one thing that stands out is its financial strength and reputation for reliability. They don’t cut corners and their customer service – while not flashy – is consistent.
That’s a big deal when you’re dealing with claims, premiums, and paperwork year after year.
Here’s something important to remember for 2025: Aetna’s Medicare Supplement Plan G premiums are on the high side. They’re more expensive than competitors like ACE and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
And here’s the thing – since Medigap benefits are standardized across all carriers, paying more doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting better coverage.
Think of it like buying the same tool from two stores – why pay more when the quality is exactly the same? It’s always worth comparing your options to make sure you’re getting the best value for your insurance needs.
In this article, I’m going to walk you through:
- What Aetna’s Plan G actually covers
- What it doesn’t cover (and why that matters)
- How it stacks up next to other big-name carriers
- How to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan
Let’s break it down and see if Aetna’s Plan G still deserves a top spot on your list in 2025.
Overview of Aetna
Aetna has been a steady presence in the Medicare Supplement market for decades. As one of the oldest and most recognized insurance brands in the U.S., Aetna has built a strong reputation for providing consistent service and dependable coverage to Medicare beneficiaries.
Since becoming part of CVS Health in 2018, Aetna’s national visibility has only grown. Their backing by one of the largest healthcare companies in the country has reinforced their commitment to the Medicare market and expanded their reach across nearly every state.
Aetna is frequently recognized for:
- Financial strength – Aetna consistently earns high ratings from major financial agencies, giving policyholders confidence that their coverage is backed by long-term stability.
- Reliable claims service – Turnaround times for claims are generally smooth, and Aetna has a history of honoring Medigap claims efficiently.
- Broad product availability – Aetna offers multiple Medigap plans in most states, including the most popular options, Plan G and Plan N.
While Aetna’s experience and national presence are clear strengths, one factor that may influence buyer decisions in 2025 is cost.
Aetna’s Plan G premiums this year are noticeably higher than some of its competitors, and for many Medicare beneficiaries, pricing plays a major role when choosing a Medigap provider.
Let’s look at what is and isn’t covered by Aetna’s Medigap Plan G.
How Does Aetna Medicare Supplement Plan G Work?
Aetna’s Medicare Supplement Plan G is designed to work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) to provide more complete coverage.
Once Medicare pays its share of approved expenses, Plan G steps in to cover nearly all of the remaining costs.
The only out-of-pocket cost that isn’t covered by Plan G is the Medicare Part B deductible, which is $257 in 2025. After that deductible is met, Plan G covers the rest of your Medicare-approved expenses – including hospital stays, outpatient services, lab work, skilled nursing, and more.
This structure makes Plan G a strong option for individuals who want:
- Predictable healthcare costs with minimal surprises
- Comprehensive coverage after the small annual deductible
- Nationwide access to any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare (no networks)
Here’s a quick look at what Aetna Plan G covers compared to Original Medicare alone:
| Coverage Area | Original Medicare Only | With Aetna Plan G |
|---|---|---|
| Part A Hospital Coinsurance | Beneficiary pays part | You pay: $0 |
| Part A Deductible | $1,676 per benefit period | You pay: $0 |
| Part B Coinsurance (20%) | Beneficiary pays 20% | You pay: $0 |
| Part B Excess Charges | Not covered | You pay: $0 |
| Skilled Nursing Facility Coinsurance | Partially covered | You pay: $0 |
| Foreign Travel Emergency (80%) | Not covered | Covered up to plan limits |
| Part B Deductible | Not applicable | Not covered ($257 in 2025) |
Important to know: Aetna’s Plan G follows the same standardized benefits as all Plan G policies nationwide. No matter which company you buy from, the core coverage is the same – but pricing, rate stability, and customer service can vary.
That means no matter which company you choose, the coverage is identical – approved by Medicare and regulated across the board. What varies, however, are the monthly premiums and any additional perks a company might offer.
Next, we’ll take a closer look at those monthly premiums.
Aetna vs. Competitors: A 2025 Premium Comparison
In 2025, Aetna’s Plan G premium is on the higher end of the spectrum compared to a few notable competitors.
Here’s how the numbers stack up:
Monthly Premium Comparison (2025 Sample Rates)
| Company | Monthly Premium | % Difference from Aetna |
|---|---|---|
| Aetna | $220.25 | — |
| ACE Property and Casualty Ins. Co. | $136.75 | 38% lower |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas | $157.18 | 29% lower |
Premium Analysis:
- ACE Property and Casualty Insurance Company offers the most competitive rate at $136.75/month, which is approximately 38% lower than Aetna. For those who want reliable coverage without paying a premium for branding or extras, ACE provides excellent value.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas charges $157.18 per month, or about 29% less than Aetna. While not the lowest, it strikes a balance between cost savings and the brand familiarity that BCBS tends to offer.
- Aetna is the benchmark in this comparison, at $220.25/month. While it offers national brand recognition and strong financial backing, its premium is significantly higher.
Our Thoughts
For the same Plan G coverage, switching from Aetna to either ACE or BCBS of Texas could save you between $756 and $1,000 per year. If your priority is long-term savings without compromising on coverage quality, ACE stands out as the most cost-effective choice.
Despite these cost differences, each company provides the exact same Plan G benefits, meaning the decision often comes down to price, company reputation, and added extras.
Let’s also compare how Aetna stacks up when it comes to added perks.
Added Perks Comparison
| Company | Household Discount | Dental/Vision/Hearing Add-Ons | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aetna | Yes | Yes – Optional DVH policy | Trusted brand, most expensive |
| ACE | 7% discount | No | Lowest cost, basic coverage, no extras |
| BCBS TX | Multiple discounts | Yes – Dental and Vision options | Balanced pricing with strong additional value |
Company Breakdown
Aetna is backed by a strong brand, offers an optional dental, vision, and hearing (DVH) policy, and provides a household discount. However, it carries the highest monthly premium in this comparison.
ACE is the most budget-friendly option. It doesn’t include extra coverage perks but delivers the same Plan G benefits at a significantly lower price point.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas strikes a strong middle ground. It offers competitive rates, household discounts, and access to additional dental and vision coverage, making it a well-rounded option for many.
In a nutshell:
- Aetna Plan G: A dependable plan from a trusted carrier, but priced well above competitors.
- ACE Plan G: Best suited for individuals focused purely on essential Plan G coverage at the lowest possible cost.
- BCBS Texas Plan G: Arguably the best value of the three, combining affordability with added perks.
What Does Medicare Supplement Plan G Not Cover?
While Plan G is one of the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plans available, it’s not all-inclusive. Before enrolling, it’s good to know what isn’t covered.
With Aetna’s Plan G, the following things are not covered:
- Dental services – including cleanings, fillings, extractions, dentures, and routine dental exams
- Vision care – Such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, or routine eye exams
- Hearing care – Including hearing exams and hearing aids
- Prescription drugs – These are not included in any Medigap plan; a separate Medicare Part D plan is needed for drug coverage
- Medicare Part B deductible – This is the only major medical expense you’re responsible for under Plan G, which is $257 in 2025
The Part B deductible applies to outpatient care and doctor visits. Once you’ve paid that amount for the year, Plan G takes over and provides 100% coverage for all other Medicare-approved services – including hospital stays, skilled nursing, lab work, outpatient surgeries, and more.
So even though Plan G fills in nearly all of Medicare’s coverage gaps, some supplemental needs – like dental, vision, hearing, and prescription medications – require additional coverage.
Why Plan G Still Makes Sense
Despite these exclusions, Plan G remains a very popular choice because of its predictable costs and nationwide flexibility.
Here’s why many beneficiaries continue to choose Plan G:
- No provider networks – You can see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare
- No prior authorizations – You and your doctor make decisions about your care, not an insurance company
- No yearly plan changes – Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap plans stay consistent year after year
- Nationwide access – Ideal for travelers or those who split time between states
- Simple cost structure – After paying the Part B deductible, you get 100% coverage for all Medicare-approved services
If you want coverage that just works without the headaches, Plan G is tough to beat.
Aetna Plan G vs. Plan F
One of the most common questions people ask when comparing Medicare Supplement plans is:
What’s the difference between Medigap Plan G and Medigap Plan F?
Both plans offer great coverage, but there’s one key difference that determines who can enroll – and how much you’ll pay.
Plan F is only available to people who were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. If you became eligible on or after that date, you cannot enroll in Plan F, but Plan G is your best alternative.
Here is a side-by-side comparison showing the coverage for both Plan G and Plan F:
| Feature | Plan G | Plan F |
|---|---|---|
| Part A Hospital Coverage | You pay: $0 | You pay: $0 |
| Part B Coinsurance | You pay: $0 | You pay: $0 |
| Part B Deductible | You pay ($257 in 2025) | You pay: $0 |
| Part B Excess Charges | Covered | Covered |
| Foreign Travel Emergency | Covered (80%) | Covered (80%) |
| Available to New Enrollees | Yes | No (Only if eligible before 1/1/2020) |
Summary:
- If you’re new to Medicare, Plan G is your most comprehensive option.
- If you’re eligible for both and want to save on monthly premiums, Plan G is often the better financial choice – even though you’ll pay a small deductible out of pocket.
With nearly identical benefits and typically lower pricing, Plan G has become the go-to option for new Medicare beneficiaries looking for maximum coverage with cost predictability.
Aetna Plan G vs. Plan N
Aetna’s Medicare Supplement Plan G and Plan N both offer solid coverage, but they differ in how you share costs.
Plan G is the more comprehensive option, covering almost all Medicare out-of-pocket expenses except for the Part B deductible. Once you’ve paid that deductible, Plan G takes care of 100% of approved costs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and Part B excess charges.
Plan N offers similar core benefits but a lower monthly premium. The trade-off is that you’ll pay small copays – up to $20 for doctor visits and up to $50 for emergency room visits (if you’re not admitted).
Plan N also doesn’t cover Part B excess charges, so you might pay more if you see providers who charge above Medicare-approved rates.
Plan N works well for healthy individuals who don’t mind a little cost-sharing and want to save on monthly premiums, while Plan G is better for those who prefer more predictable, all-inclusive coverage.
What Is Aetna’s Financial Rating?
Aetna, backed by CVS Health, has over 160 years of experience in the insurance industry. It offers policyholders strong financial stability and national reach.
With excellent financial ratings from A.M. Best (A), Moody’s (A1), and Standard & Poor’s (A+), Aetna demonstrates a reliable ability to meet future obligations and maintain market confidence.
Can I Visit Any Specialty Facility With Aetna Plan G?
Yes. One key advantage of any Medicare Supplement Plan G (including Aetna’s) is that it provides nationwide access to any doctor, hospital, or specialist that accepts Medicare.
There are no networks, no referrals, and no prior authorizations required.
This means you’re free to receive care from some of the top medical institutions in the country, such as:
- Mayo Clinic
- Cleveland Clinic
- Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Shands Hospital (UF Health)
- MD Anderson Cancer Center
Whether you live in a metropolitan area or travel frequently, this flexibility allows you to seek care wherever Medicare is accepted – without worrying about whether your provider is “in-network.”
This level of access is especially valuable for individuals managing complex health conditions or those who want the option to seek second opinions and specialized treatments across state lines.
Which Medigap Provider Should I Pick?
Aetna has been a widely recognized and trusted name in the Medicare Supplement space for many years. However, 2025 presents a different landscape when it comes to choosing the best value for Plan G coverage.
While Aetna still delivers solid coverage and strong financial backing, its higher monthly premiums have caused many people to consider other options, including:
- ACE Property and Casualty Insurance Co. – Chosen most often by individuals looking for the lowest premium without sacrificing Plan G’s core benefits.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield – Increasingly popular for those who want a strong balance of cost, added benefits, and household discounts.
Aetna may still be the right fit for some, but this year, there are better-priced choices worth considering before you enroll.
Our Thoughts
Over the years, we’ve helped thousands of people enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan G across multiple carriers. While many long-time policyholders still trust Aetna, the shift in pricing for 2025 has made other options more appealing for new enrollees.
ACE is often selected for its affordability and straightforward coverage, but if you’re looking for the best combination of pricing, benefits, and rate stability, Blue Cross Blue Shield may offer the strongest overall value in 2025.
It delivers comprehensive Plan G coverage with reasonable premiums and useful add-on features – without the higher price tag associated with Aetna.
How Do I Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan G?
We make enrolling in a Medicare Supplement Plan G simple and personalized to your situation. Whether you’re considering Aetna, ACE, or Blue Cross Blue Shield, the process is straightforward and designed to help you make a confident, informed choice.
Step 1: Personalized Assessment
We’ll start with a one-on-one review to help determine:
- Your Medicare eligibility and enrollment status
- Your age, ZIP code, and overall health profile
- Whether you qualify for any household discounts
- Which carriers offer the best rates and benefits in your area
This initial step ensures you’re seeing the most accurate and relevant options available.
Step 2: Choose the Right Plan
All Plan G policies offer the same core medical benefits, but pricing, discounts, and added features can vary widely between companies.
Whether you prefer a well-known brand like Aetna or are more interested in lower-cost options like ACE or BCBS, we’ll help you:
- Compare quotes side-by-side
- Understand long-term rate trends
- Select the plan that aligns with your budget and preferences
Step 3: Easy Phone Enrollment
Once you’ve selected a plan, we’ll walk you through the enrollment process over the phone. It only takes a few minutes.
To get started, we’ll need:
- Your full name, address, and phone number
- Your date of birth
- Your Medicare claim number (from your Medicare card)
- The effective dates of Medicare Part A and Part B
After completing the application, you’ll receive your policy and ID cards within 7 to 10 business days – then you’re all set!
Bottom Line
Aetna remains one of the most trusted names in health insurance, with a long-standing reputation for financial strength and consistent service.
Their Medicare Supplement Plan G delivers the same standardized benefits as any other insurer. It covers nearly all Medicare-approved costs except the small Part B deductible and offers dependable nationwide access to all providers who accept Medicare.
However, in 2025, Aetna’s premiums are among the highest in the market. While you’re getting solid reliability and optional dental, vision, and hearing add-ons, you’re also paying significantly more for coverage that’s identical across all insurers.
Competitors like ACE and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas offer the same Plan G coverage for 29% to 38% less per month, potentially saving you $750–$1,000 a year.
If brand recognition and a trusted service history matter most to you, Aetna may still be worth considering. But if your priority is getting the best value for your money, equally reliable options with lower premiums – like ACE for affordability or BCBS Texas for well-rounded benefits – may be the smarter financial choice in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Aetna a good company for Medicare Supplement insurance?
Yes, Aetna is a well-established insurer with a long history in the Medicare space. Backed by CVS Health and supported by strong financial ratings, Aetna is considered a reliable option. However, in 2025, their Plan G premiums are higher than many competitors offering the same benefits.
What is the difference between Plan G and Plan N?
Plan G and Plan N are both popular Medigap plans. Plan G covers more expenses, including Part B excess charges, and has fewer out-of-pocket costs. Plan N typically has lower premiums but includes small copays for office visits and emergency room visits, and it doesn’t cover excess charges.
Does Aetna Plan G cover prescription drugs?
No, like all Medigap plans, Aetna Plan G does not include prescription drug coverage. You’ll need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan to receive coverage for your prescriptions.
Can I use Aetna Plan G anywhere in the U.S.?
Yes. Aetna Plan G offers nationwide coverage. You can see any doctor, specialist, or facility that accepts Medicare without needing referrals or prior authorization.
Can I switch from Aetna to another Plan G provider later?
Yes, you can apply to switch Medigap providers at any time, but in most cases, you’ll be subject to medical underwriting unless you’re in a guaranteed issue period. It’s important to compare rates and understand your eligibility before making a change.
