Does Aetna Pay for Gym Membership?
Aetna Gym Membership in Standard Plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage Plans
Key Takeaways
- Standard Plans: Typically don’t cover gym memberships directly but may offer discounts through programs like GlobalFit®.
- Medicaid Plans: Might offer resources promoting healthy lifestyles and discounts on gym memberships; availability varies by state and plan.
- Medicare Advantage Plans: Often include the SilverSneakers® fitness benefit, providing access to numerous fitness locations and classes at no extra cost.
Introduction
Staying active is crucial for overall health and well-being. Many people consider gym memberships a valuable tool for achieving fitness goals. If you’re an Aetna member, you might wonder if your plan helps offset the cost of joining a gym. In this article, we’ll explore whether Aetna pays for gym memberships under standard plans, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage plans.
Gym Memberships in Standard Plans (Individual and Employer-Sponsored)
Aetna’s standard health insurance plans typically do not directly cover the cost of gym memberships. However, many of Aetna’s employer-sponsored health insurance plans provide discounts on gym memberships and related fitness services. These discounts are part of Aetna’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles among its members. For instance, members may receive preferred rates on gym memberships, at-home weight loss programs, home fitness options, and one-on-one health coaching services through partnerships with organizations like GlobalFit®.
Gym Memberships in Medicaid Plans
Aetna Medicaid plans prioritize preventative care and often offer resources to promote healthy lifestyles. While these plans likely won’t cover gym memberships outright, they might offer benefits related to exercise programs or fitness consultations. Additionally, some Aetna Medicaid plans may provide discounts on gym memberships and fitness programs. The availability of such benefits can vary by state and specific plan. It’s best to check with your specific plan or contact your care coordinator to explore available options.
Gym Memberships in Medicare Advantage Plans
Aetna Medicare Advantage plans often stand out for their focus on wellness initiatives. Many Aetna Medicare Advantage plans come with the SilverSneakers® fitness benefit at no additional cost. SilverSneakers® is a nationwide fitness program that provides access to a network of gyms and fitness centers offering various exercise options tailored for seniors. With over 15,000 fitness locations nationwide, SilverSneakers® offers a range of classes designed to help members maintain and improve their health through regular physical activity.
Conclusion
While Aetna’s standard plans and Medicaid plans generally do not cover gym memberships directly, they often offer various incentives and discounts to encourage healthy lifestyles. Aetna Medicare Advantage plans, however, frequently include the SilverSneakers® benefit, providing extensive access to gyms and fitness programs. Always refer to your plan documents or contact Aetna member services for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific plan’s coverage.
