If you’re approaching Medicare eligibility or looking to enhance your prescription drug coverage, Aetna Medicare Part D plans in 2025 offer a solid solution. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition or simply planning ahead for future health needs, understanding how Aetna’s Part D plans work is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Aetna Medicare Part D for 2025, including available plans, coverage details, monthly premiums, preferred pharmacies, and how Aetna compares to other Medicare Part D providers.
What Is Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D is a prescription drug coverage program offered through private insurers approved by Medicare. It is designed to reduce the cost of medications for those enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). You can purchase a stand-alone Part D plan or get it bundled within a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage (MAPD).
Why You Need Medicare Part D
Without Part D, you could face significant out-of-pocket costs for both generic and brand-name medications. If you delay enrollment, you might incur late enrollment penalties that last for as long as you have Medicare coverage.
Overview of Aetna Medicare Part D Plans in 2025
Aetna Medicare Part D plans are offered by Aetna, a CVS Health company and one of the largest insurers in the United States. With CVS Health’s extensive pharmacy network and drug management services, Aetna delivers robust and accessible prescription drug coverage.
In 2025, Aetna is offering three primary Medicare Part D prescription drug plans across most states:
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Aetna SilverScript SmartSaver (PDP)
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Aetna SilverScript Choice (PDP)
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Aetna SilverScript Plus (PDP)
Each of these plans is tailored to different healthcare needs and budgets.
What Aetna Medicare Part D Covers
Coverage under Aetna Medicare Part D includes:
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Generic and brand-name prescription drugs
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Drugs used for chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, and arthritis
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Vaccinations, including flu, shingles, and pneumonia
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Cancer drugs, immunosuppressants, and antiviral medications
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Tiered formulary options for better cost-sharing
Aetna’s plans follow Medicare’s standard coverage model, which includes:
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Initial deductible
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Initial coverage phase
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Coverage gap (“donut hole”)
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Catastrophic coverage
In 2025, thanks to updates from the Inflation Reduction Act, catastrophic coverage kicks in with no out-of-pocket cost after you hit the $2,000 spending cap.
4. Types of Aetna Medicare Part D Plans in 2025
Let’s take a closer look at the three main Aetna Part D plans for 2025:
1. SilverScript SmartSaver (PDP)
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Ideal for: Cost-conscious individuals taking mostly generics
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Monthly premium: Starting around $0–$10 (varies by location)
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Annual deductible: $280 (on Tier 2 and above)
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Preferred generics: As low as $0 at preferred pharmacies
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Special features: $0 copays on select Tier 1 generics
2. SilverScript Choice (PDP)
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Ideal for: People taking multiple medications, including brand names
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Monthly premium: Approximately $30–$50
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Deductible: $0 on Tier 1 & Tier 2; up to $280 on higher tiers
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Good for: Those who qualify for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
3. SilverScript Plus (PDP)
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Ideal for: People who want extensive coverage with lower out-of-pocket costs
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Monthly premium: Around $60–$80
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Deductible: $0
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Extra benefits: Coverage in the gap (donut hole), low copays on many medications
2025 Aetna Medicare Part D Formulary
The Aetna Medicare Part D formulary is a list of covered drugs, organized into tiers:
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Tier 1: Preferred Generics – Lowest copays
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Tier 2: Non-Preferred Generics – Low copays
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Tier 3: Preferred Brands – Moderate copays
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Tier 4: Non-Preferred Brands – Higher copays
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Tier 5: Specialty Drugs – Highest out-of-pocket cost
In 2025, Aetna’s formulary includes over 3,500 medications, covering a broad spectrum of conditions.
Preferred Pharmacies and Networks
Aetna Medicare Part D plans utilize CVS Pharmacy as their primary preferred retail pharmacy, along with:
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Walgreens
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Walmart
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Kroger
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Publix
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HEB
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Safeway
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Online pharmacy delivery via CVS Caremark
Using preferred pharmacies means lower copays and more savings. You can also enjoy home delivery for maintenance medications through Aetna’s mail-order service.
Monthly Premiums, Deductibles, and Costs in 2025
Aetna Medicare Part D Plans offer different levels of coverage based on your needs. Here’s an overview of the costs:
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SilverScript SmartSaver (PDP): This plan is ideal for cost-conscious individuals who take mostly generic medications. The monthly premium typically starts around $0–$10, and the annual deductible is $280 for Tier 2 drugs and above. Select Tier 1 generics are offered with $0 copays at preferred pharmacies.
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SilverScript Choice (PDP): This plan is great for people taking multiple medications, including both generics and brand names. Premiums usually range from $30–$50, and there is no deductible for Tier 1 and Tier 2 drugs. The deductible for higher tiers can be up to $280.
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SilverScript Plus (PDP): This plan offers more comprehensive coverage with lower out-of-pocket costs. Premiums typically range from $60–$80, and there is no deductible. It also provides coverage in the gap (donut hole) and low copays for many medications.
In 2025, the maximum out-of-pocket cost for Medicare Part D is capped at $2,000, offering protection against high drug costs.
How to Enroll in Aetna Medicare Part D
You can enroll in Aetna Medicare Part D during the following periods:
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Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Around your 65th birthday
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Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7
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Special Enrollment Period (SEP): If you move, lose other coverage, or qualify for Extra Help
Ways to Enroll:
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Online at newhealthinsurance.com
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Through Aetna’s website
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Calling Aetna directly or through a licensed agent
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Visiting your local Social Security office
Aetna Medicare Part D vs. Other Providers
Aetna Medicare Part D plans stand out as a strong choice for prescription drug coverage, but how do they compare to other providers in the market?
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Preferred Pharmacy: Aetna has CVS Pharmacy as its primary preferred pharmacy, with additional partnerships with major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, and others. In comparison, other providers like Humana and UnitedHealthcare partner with pharmacies such as Walmart and Walgreens.
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Mail-order Convenience: Like many other providers, Aetna offers mail-order services for maintenance medications, allowing you to receive your prescriptions delivered to your home. Humana and UnitedHealthcare also offer similar services.
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Plan Variety: Aetna offers three Medicare Part D plans in 2025, providing flexibility depending on your needs. Other providers, like Humana, offer up to four plans, while UnitedHealthcare typically offers two to three options.
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Drug List (Formulary): Aetna’s formulary includes over 3,500 drugs, covering a wide range of conditions. Other insurers like Humana and UnitedHealthcare typically offer formularies with around 3,000 drugs.
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Extra Help Support: Aetna has excellent support for those who qualify for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy), ensuring affordability for those with limited income. Humana offers very good Extra Help support, and UnitedHealthcare’s support is considered good, though it may not be as extensive as Aetna’s.
Pros and Cons of Aetna Medicare Part D Plans
Pros:
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Affordable premiums (starting at $0)
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Extensive pharmacy network
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Strong formulary and low copays
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Mail-order and 90-day supplies
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CVS Health integration
Cons:
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Premiums can vary by location
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It may not cover every specialty drug
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Higher tiers can still have significant copays
Who Should Consider Aetna Medicare Part D?
You should consider Aetna Medicare Part D in 2025 if you:
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Take daily maintenance medications
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Prefer CVS Pharmacy or use mail-order services
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Want a low-cost option with good generic coverage
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Qualify for Extra Help (LIS/Medicaid)
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Prefer a plan with no surprises and clear cost structure
Tips for Choosing the Right Part D Plan
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Compare plans using Medicare Plan Finder
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Check that your medications are included in the Aetna formulary
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Use preferred pharmacies for maximum savings
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Review plan ratings and customer feedback
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Consider total out-of-pocket costs, not just premiums
2025 Medicare Part D Changes and How They Affect You
In 2025, major updates to Medicare prescription drug coverage are being implemented:
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Out-of-pocket spending cap of $2,000 annually
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No 5% coinsurance in the catastrophic phase
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Option to spread out drug costs monthly (smoothing)
These changes make Aetna Medicare Part D even more attractive by enhancing affordability and predictability for enrollees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Aetna a good Medicare Part D plan?
Yes, Aetna is considered one of the best Medicare Part D providers in 2025. It offers competitive premiums, broad drug coverage, and CVS pharmacy access.
What does Medicare Part D cover?
Medicare Part D covers prescription medications, including generics, brand-name drugs, and specialty medications. It also includes vaccines and immunizations.
What is the best Medicare Part D plan?
The best plan depends on your medications and budget. Aetna’s SilverScript SmartSaver is best for affordability, while SilverScript Plus is best for comprehensive coverage.
What pharmacy does Aetna Medicare use?
Aetna’s preferred pharmacy is CVS Pharmacy, but it also partners with Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, and others. You can use mail-order delivery as well.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, Aetna Medicare Part D plans continue to provide solid, cost-effective coverage options for prescription medications. With three robust plan offerings, an expansive pharmacy network, and competitive pricing, Aetna is a strong contender for anyone shopping for Medicare Part D coverage.
Be sure to compare your options during the Annual Enrollment Period and pick a plan that fits both your budget and your medication needs.
Peace of mind starts with the right health insurance! Get covered today at NewHealthInsurance.com or call 📞 (833) 877-9927.
About Paula Reynolds
