Aetna Group Health Insurance: Powered by CVS Health
Aetna is now part of CVS Health following a 2018 merger, and this integration brings distinctive advantages to employer health plans. Aetna's CVS Health connection means employees have access to MinuteClinic (1,100+ retail health clinics inside CVS stores), HealthHUB locations (expanded health services), and CVS Caremark pharmacy benefits management — all integrated into a single health experience.
California group products include: Open Choice PPO (broad CA and national network), Aetna HMO (select market availability in CA), Aetna Whole Health (integrated primary care model), and Aetna Funding Advantage for level-funded small groups. Aetna's dental (through CVS/Aetna) and vision are strong companion lines.
Behavioral Health Integration
Aetna Behavioral Health is one of the stronger behavioral health benefits in the industry — particularly relevant post-COVID as employers prioritize mental health parity. Aetna offers robust EAP (Employee Assistance Program), mental health telehealth through Teladoc Mental Health, and substance use disorder treatment coverage. California's mental health parity laws are among the strictest nationally, and Aetna meets and exceeds those requirements.
Pharmacy Benefits and Specialty Drug Management
CVS Caremark pharmacy benefits management is a major advantage for Aetna-covered employees. Specialty drug cost management, 90-day supply mail order (CVS Mail Service Pharmacy), and generic drug promotion programs help control one of the fastest-growing healthcare cost drivers. For employers with employees on specialty medications, this matters significantly.
Best Fit for California Employers
Aetna is a strong choice for employers who want integrated medical and pharmacy benefits, want robust behavioral health, or have employees near CVS/MinuteClinic locations. Aetna's CA HMO footprint is more limited than Kaiser or Anthem — PPO is typically the strongest Aetna product in California. Compare Aetna rates against Anthem and Blue Shield for your specific market.