Aetna, a CVS Health company, partners with a wide network of pharmacies to provide prescription services. Knowing which pharmacies are in-network helps you save on medications. Using the right pharmacy ensures lower costs and seamless coverage.
Aetna’s pharmacy network includes national chains, local stores, and mail-order options. In 2025, members can access over 70,000 pharmacies, including CVS and preferred partners. This guide details how to find and use these pharmacies effectively.
Understanding Aetna’s pharmacy benefits maximizes your plan’s value. From retail to specialty pharmacies, Aetna offers convenient options. Let’s explore the pharmacies Aetna uses and how to access them.
Understanding Aetna’s Pharmacy Network
Aetna’s pharmacy network includes retail, mail-order, and specialty pharmacies. In-network pharmacies offer lower copays and better coverage. Out-of-network pharmacies may result in higher costs or no coverage.
Most Aetna plans require in-network pharmacies for full benefits. Medicare Advantage and commercial plans have distinct networks. Check your plan’s Evidence of Coverage for specifics.
The network includes national chains and local options. Preferred pharmacies, like CVS, often have lower copays. Use Aetna’s tools to find the best pharmacy for your needs.
Retail Pharmacy Options
Aetna partners with over 70,000 retail pharmacies nationwide. Major chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid are included. Local independent pharmacies are also in-network in many areas.
Preferred pharmacies offer lower out-of-pocket costs. For example, CVS pharmacies are preferred for most Aetna plans. Always verify a pharmacy’s status before filling prescriptions.
Use Aetna’s pharmacy finder tool at AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider. Enter your ZIP code to locate nearby in-network pharmacies. This ensures you get the lowest prices.
Mail-Order Pharmacy Services
Aetna offers mail-order services through CVS Caremark Mail Service Pharmacy. This is ideal for long-term medications, like those for diabetes or high blood pressure. Members can get up to a 90-day supply with free shipping.
Mail-order is convenient for regular prescriptions. It saves time and reduces pharmacy visits. Log in to Caremark.com to manage orders and refills.
Some plans allow 90-day supplies at retail pharmacies through the Maintenance Choice program. Check your plan for eligibility. Contact CVS Caremark at 1-833-383-2650 for assistance.
Specialty Pharmacy Services
Aetna’s specialty pharmacy, CVS Specialty, handles medications for complex conditions. These include drugs for cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, or multiple sclerosis. Specialty drugs require special handling and delivery.
CVS Specialty provides free injection supplies, like needles and syringes. Medications are delivered to your home, doctor’s office, or preferred location. Free standard shipping is included.
Members can access support from pharmacists 24/7. Call 1-800-237-2767 (TTY: 711) for help with specialty prescriptions. Log in to Aetna.com for order tracking.
What Pharmacies Does Aetna Use: 2025 Network Details
In 2025, Aetna’s pharmacy network includes CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and ShopRite as preferred options. Over 7,500 CVS locations offer $0 copays for many services, like flu shots. ShopRite joined as a preferred provider for Medicare plans, offering low copays.
Some plans have standard and preferred networks. Preferred pharmacies, like CVS, have lower costs than standard ones, like some Walgreens locations. Check your plan’s pharmacy directory for details.
Aetna’s network covers all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Use AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider to confirm in-network status. Call 1-855-338-7027 (TTY: 711) for up-to-date pharmacy lists.
Comparing Pharmacy Options
| Pharmacy Type | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Retail | National chains, local stores, immediate pickup | Short-term prescriptions, urgent needs |
| Mail-Order | 90-day supplies, free shipping, managed online | Long-term medications, convenience |
| Specialty | Handles complex drugs, free supplies, 24/7 support | Chronic conditions, specialty medications |
Medicare Advantage Pharmacy Benefits
Aetna Medicare Advantage plans use a network of over 70,000 pharmacies. CVS is a preferred provider, offering $0 copays for covered drugs in many cases. Other chains, like Rite Aid, may be standard network pharmacies.
Members must use in-network pharmacies for coverage, except in emergencies. Indian Health Service pharmacies are available for Native Americans and Alaska Natives. Check your Evidence of Coverage for network details.
Use AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider to locate pharmacies. Mail-order options through CVS Caremark are available for 90-day supplies. Call 1-833-570-6670 (TTY: 711) for Medicare-specific questions.
Medicaid and Commercial Plans
Aetna Medicaid plans, like those in Illinois or Pennsylvania, cover prescriptions at in-network pharmacies. CVS and local pharmacies are typically included. Coverage varies by state, so check your plan’s formulary.
Commercial plans, including employer-sponsored ones, use Aetna’s broad network. Preferred pharmacies, like CVS, offer lower copays. Some plans include $0 copay generics for conditions like depression.
Log in to Aetna.com to find pharmacies or review coverage. Call 1-800-282-5366 (TTY: 711) for commercial plan details. Medicaid members can contact state-specific numbers, like 1-866-329-4701 for Illinois.
How to Find In-Network Pharmacies
Visit AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider or Aetna.com to use the pharmacy finder tool. Enter your ZIP code and plan details to see in-network options. The tool updates every two weeks for accuracy.
The Aetna Health app, available on the App Store or Google Play, offers mobile access. Scan your member ID card’s QR code to log in. Search for pharmacies or check prescription costs.
Call Member Services at 1-855-338-7027 (TTY: 711) for help. Representatives can confirm pharmacy status or mail a printed directory. Always carry your Aetna ID card when visiting pharmacies.
Tips to Maximize Pharmacy Benefits
- Use Preferred Pharmacies: Choose CVS or ShopRite for lower copays.
- Opt for Mail-Order: Save time with 90-day supplies via CVS Caremark.
- Check Coverage: Use Aetna’s drug search tool to confirm medication costs.
- Stay In-Network: Avoid higher costs by verifying pharmacy status.
Limitations and Considerations
Out-of-network pharmacies may not be covered, except in emergencies. Costs at standard network pharmacies can be higher than preferred ones. Always check your plan’s network before filling prescriptions.
Some plans have prior authorization or quantity limits. Specialty drugs may require CVS Specialty for coverage. Review your formulary for restrictions.
Long-term care residents may have different pharmacy networks. Contact Aetna for specific rules. Indian Health Service pharmacies have limited access for non-Native members.
Additional Pharmacy Benefits
Aetna offers tools like the Member Payment Estimator on Aetna.com. This estimates out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions. The Cost of Care Tool compares prices across pharmacies.
Some plans include $0 copay generics or over-the-counter (OTC) benefits. For example, Aetna Medicare plans may offer a $25 quarterly OTC allowance. Use the CVS OTC Health Solutions app to shop.
MinuteClinics at CVS provide vaccinations and minor care with $0 copays for many plans. Check MinuteClinic.com for services and locations. Always confirm coverage with your plan.
Switching Pharmacies
Switching to an in-network pharmacy is simple. Call or visit the new pharmacy with your Aetna ID card. The pharmacist handles prescription transfers.
Notify your current pharmacy to avoid refills. Use Aetna’s pharmacy finder to ensure the new location is in-network. This prevents unexpected costs.
For mail-order switches, contact CVS Caremark at 1-833-383-2650. Provide your prescription details for seamless delivery. Update your account on Caremark.com for refills.
Special Cases
Aetna’s Banner|Aetna plans in Arizona use a specific network, including CVS. Check BannerAetna.com for local pharmacies. Allina Health|Aetna plans in Minnesota follow similar rules.
Long-term care or homebound members may use specialized pharmacies. Contact Aetna for home infusion or long-term care pharmacy options. Call 1-855-338-7027 (TTY: 711) for guidance.
Native Americans and Alaska Natives can use Indian Health Service pharmacies. These are exclusive to specific plans. Verify eligibility with your plan documents.
Summary
Aetna’s pharmacy network in 2025 includes over 70,000 locations, with CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and ShopRite as key partners. Preferred pharmacies like CVS offer lower copays, while mail-order and specialty options provide convenience. Use Aetna’s online tools or app to find in-network pharmacies and estimate costs. By choosing in-network providers and exploring mail-order services, you can save on prescriptions. Always check your plan’s formulary and network to maximize benefits and avoid extra costs.
FAQ
What pharmacies does Aetna use for Medicare Advantage plans?
Aetna’s Medicare Advantage plans use CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, and ShopRite, with CVS as a preferred provider. Use AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider to locate in-network pharmacies. Check your Evidence of Coverage for details.
Can I use mail-order pharmacies with Aetna?
Yes, CVS Caremark Mail Service Pharmacy offers 90-day supplies with free shipping. Log in to Caremark.com to manage orders. Call 1-833-383-2650 for assistance.
Are out-of-network pharmacies covered by Aetna?
Out-of-network pharmacies may not be covered, except in emergencies. Costs are higher, and coverage may be denied. Use Aetna’s pharmacy finder to stay in-network.
How do I find an in-network pharmacy?
Visit AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider or Aetna.com and enter your ZIP code. The Aetna Health app also lists pharmacies. Call 1-855-338-7027 (TTY: 711) for help.
Does Aetna cover specialty medications?
Yes, CVS Specialty handles drugs for conditions like cancer or MS. Free shipping and supplies are included. Contact 1-800-237-2767 (TTY: 711) for support.