
Aetna insurance covers weight loss medication, but the specifics can be a bit confusing. The type of medication covered depends on the individual's health needs and the specific plan they have.
Weight loss medications such as orlistat, phentermine-topiramate, and liraglutide are covered by Aetna, but only for certain conditions.
Aetna requires a doctor's prescription and a pre-authorization process for weight loss medication coverage, which can take several days to a week to complete.
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Aetna Insurance Coverage
Aetna is launching a pilot program to test the benefits of FDA-approved, prescription weight-loss drugs combined with lifestyle support.
Plan sponsors have the option to cover these prescription weight-loss medications in Aetna’s health benefit plans. This means that some Aetna insurance plans may cover Belviq and Qsymia.
Adding a prescription weight-loss drug may help people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater with at least 1 other weight-related risk or medical condition or those with a BMI of 30 or greater.
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Weight Loss Medication Coverage
Aetna is launching a pilot program to test the benefits of FDA-approved, prescription weight-loss drugs combined with lifestyle support.
The program includes prescription weight-loss medications Belviq and Qsymia, which have shown significant potential for body weight loss ranging between 5% to 15% in clinical trials.
Members who qualify and begin treatment with Belviq or Qsymia receive free premium membership to the mobile app “Lose It!” to support weight loss and positive lifestyle changes.
Plan sponsors have the option to cover these prescription weight-loss medications in Aetna’s health benefit plans.
Aetna’s pilot program includes outreach to high-risk members and doctors about covered weight-loss options to help people make informed decisions.
Adding a prescription weight-loss drug may help people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater with at least 1 other weight-related risk or medical condition or those with a BMI of 30 or greater.
Results from the pilot program are expected by the end of 2014, providing valuable insights into the effectiveness of this approach.
The pilot program emphasizes the importance of combining prescription weight-loss medications with lifestyle changes, such as wellness and screening programs, lifestyle coaching, and other support.
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Medicare Coverage
Aetna offers Medicare Advantage plans that cover a wide range of services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.
With Aetna's Medicare Advantage plans, you can also get coverage for services like dental care, vision care, and hearing aids.
Aetna's Medicare Advantage plans often have lower out-of-pocket costs compared to Original Medicare.
You can choose from various Aetna Medicare Advantage plans, each with its own set of benefits and costs.
Aetna's Medicare Supplement Insurance plans can help fill the gaps in Original Medicare coverage, such as deductibles and copays.
These plans can also provide additional coverage for services like medical equipment and transportation.
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Medicare and Weight Loss
Medicare and weight loss go hand in hand, as Medicare covers certain weight loss treatments and medications.
Medicare Part B covers certain weight loss medications, including orlistat and phentermine-topiramate, if prescribed by a doctor.
Medicare Advantage plans may also cover weight loss programs, including counseling and behavioral therapy.
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer weight loss programs that include meal replacements and exercise programs.
Medicare coverage for weight loss treatments and medications varies depending on the specific plan and the individual's health needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does Aetna not cover?
Aetna does not cover non-medically necessary services, including those not approved by Aetna, even if a medical provider has recommended or prescribed them. This also includes charges for missed appointments and certain treatments that must be provided in a public facility.
Sources
- https://www.benefitspro.com/2024/04/05/health-insurers-will-start-covering-weight-loss-drug-wegovy-for-heart-conditions/
- https://www.penghudaily.com.tw/post/does-aetna-cover-wegovy
- https://www.drugtopics.com/view/aetna-weight-loss-program-include-belviq-qsymia
- https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/21/medicare-can-cover-weight-loss-drugs-if-used-for-added-health-benefit.html
- https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/view/aetna-weight-loss-program-include-belviq-qsymia
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