Aetna Better Health: What You Need to Know About Medicaid and Managed Care Plans
Discover everything you need to know about Aetna Better Health. Learn how it
works, who it’s for, what it covers, and how to enroll in this top
Medicaid-managed care plan.
Introduction
Navigating the world of healthcare
can feel overwhelming, especially when you're looking for coverage that fits
both your needs and your budget. That’s where Aetna Better Health
comes in—a trusted name in Medicaid-managed care that offers comprehensive
healthcare services for individuals and families who qualify for Medicaid or
other government-sponsored health programs.
In this guide, we’ll break down
what Aetna Better Health is, what it covers, who qualifies,
how to enroll, and what sets it apart from other Medicaid plans. Whether you’re
new to Medicaid or exploring your options for better care, this article gives
you the full picture.
What Is Aetna Better Health?
Aetna Better Health
is a division of Aetna, a CVS Health company, focused on providing healthcare
coverage for Medicaid-eligible individuals. It delivers Medicaid
managed care plans, Medicare-Medicaid plans (MMPs),
and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage in
various states across the U.S.
As one of the country’s most
recognized Medicaid providers, Aetna Better Health is committed to helping
members lead healthier lives through preventive care, coordinated services, and
access to a strong provider network.
Where Is Aetna Better Health Available?
Aetna Better Health operates in
several states under different Medicaid programs. As of 2025, some of the
states offering plans include:
·
Florida
·
Illinois
·
Michigan
·
New Jersey
·
Pennsylvania
·
Texas
·
Virginia
·
Kentucky
·
Louisiana
·
California (Medi-Cal
program)
Note:
Availability and benefits vary by state, so it’s important to check the local
Aetna Better Health website for specific plan details in your region.
Who Is Eligible for Aetna Better
Health?
Eligibility depends on your
state’s Medicaid guidelines, but typically includes:
·
Low-income individuals andfamilies
·
Pregnant women
·
Children and teens
·
People with disabilities
·
Seniors
·
Dual-eligible individuals
(qualifying for both Medicaid and Medicare)
Each state has specific income
thresholds and other requirements, which you can check through your state’s
Medicaid website or by contacting Aetna Better Health directly.
Key Benefits of Aetna Better
Health
Aetna Better Health offers a wide
range of benefits designed to support physical, emotional, and social
well-being. These may include:
✅
Doctor Visits and Preventive
Care
·
Primary care
·
Annual checkups
·
Immunizations
·
Wellness screenings
✅
Prescription Drug Coverage
·
Most Medicaid-approved
medications
·
Pharmacy management
services
·
Mail-order options (in
select plans)
✅
Hospital
and Emergency Care
·
Emergency room visits
·
Urgent care centers
·
Hospital stays and
surgeries
✅
Mental Health and Behavioral
Services
·
Therapy and counseling
·
Substance use treatment
·
Psychiatric care
✅
Vision
and Dental Benefits
·
Eye exams, glasses
·
Routine dental exams and
cleanings
·
Orthodontics (for children,
in some states)
✅
Transportation Services
·
Free rides to medical
appointments
·
Mileage reimbursement (in
some states)
✅
Telehealth Services
·
Access to doctors and
specialists via phone or video
·
24/7 nurse helplines
Value-Added Services (Extra
Perks)
Depending on the state, AetnaBetter Health plans may offer additional value-added benefits, such as:
·
Gym memberships or fitness
classes
·
Healthy food card programs
·
Free cell phones for
health-related communication
·
Rewards for completing
health goals (e.g., screenings, prenatal care)
·
Care coordination for
chronic conditions
These extra services can be a huge
help for families and individuals trying to improve their quality of life.
How to Enroll in Aetna Better
Health
Enrolling is easy if you're
eligible for Medicaid. Here’s how:
1.
Check Your Eligibility
Visit your state’s Medicaid website to determine if you qualify.
2.
Apply for Medicaid
Submit an application online, by phone, by mail, or in person at your local
Medicaid office.
3.
Choose Aetna Better Health
as Your Plan
Once approved, select Aetna Better Health during the health plan selection
phase. In some states, Aetna may be auto-assigned if it's the default or
preferred plan.
4.
Receive Your Member ID
Card
Once enrolled, you’ll get your member packet and ID card in the mail.
Aetna Better Health vs. Other
Medicaid Plans
What sets Aetna Better
Health apart from other providers like UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
or Molina Healthcare?
Feature |
Aetna Better Health |
Other Medicaid Plans |
CVS Health backing |
✔️ |
❌
(depends on provider) |
Telehealth integration |
✔️
(via Teladoc & CVS MinuteClinic) |
✔️
(varies) |
Wellness incentives |
✔️
Points and gift card rewards |
✔️
(varies by state) |
Care coordination |
Strong focus on chronic care |
Varies |
App and online portal |
Easy to use, CVS-integrated |
Mixed reviews |
Aetna’s integration with CVS
Pharmacy and MinuteClinic also adds convenience that many competitors
can’t match.
Member Testimonials
“Aetna Better Health helped me
manage my diabetes with personalized care. I’ve never felt more supported.”
— Veronica T., Michigan
“The dental and vision
coverage for my kids is a lifesaver. Plus, they love the reward points for
getting checkups.” — Danielle M., Florida
Aetna Better Health App Features
The Aetna Better Health
mobile app helps members manage their health in one place. Features
include:
·
Digital ID card
·
Find a doctor or clinic
nearby
·
View benefits and coverage
·
Track prescriptions and
appointments
·
Access health tips and
alerts
It’s available on both Android and
iOS platforms.
Final Thoughts
Aetna Better Health is more than
just a Medicaid provider — it’s a wellness partner for millions of Americans
seeking accessible, affordable, and quality care. From preventive services and
mental health support to prescription drug coverage and telehealth, Aetna
Better Health provides a comprehensive solution designed for real-life needs.
If you're eligible for Medicaid or
exploring better health coverage options, Aetna Better Health
could be the right fit. With strong member support, a focus on community
health, and seamless access to care through CVS Health, it’s a top contender in
the world of managed Medicaid care.
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