Cigna vs. Anthem: Medicare Advantage Comparison
Cigna Medicare Advantage offers plans in 29 states and Washington, D.C., and the company’s member experience ratings, including metrics like care coordination and customer service, are above average for major providers. Although Cigna’s average star ratings from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) are higher than those from Anthem, neither company is above the industry average.
Anthem-branded Medicare Advantage plans are available in 14 states, and Anthem’s average member experience scores from CMS fall below the average for major providers. Anthem also offers 4-star plans in only three states.
Here’s a look at how Cigna and Anthem compare.
Cigna Medicare Advantage
Cigna
3.76
CMS Star Rating
Cigna plans are low-cost and member experience scores are higher than average, but star ratings from the CMS have declined.
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States available
29 states and Washington, D.C.
Members in high-rated plans
Medium (50% to 89%)
Member experience
3.49 (Above average)
States available
29 states and Washington, D.C.
Members in high-rated plans
Medium (50% to 89%)
Member experience
3.49 (Above average)
Pros
- More than 8 in 10 Cigna plans are $0-premium plans.
- Offers a range of member benefits, such as 24/7 telehealth, meal delivery and transportation to and from health facilities.
Cons
- Below-average star ratings.
- Available in only 29 states and Washington, D.C.
- The National Committee for Quality Assurance gives all Cigna plans a score of 3.5 stars or lower on their 5-point scale.
Other factors to consider
7th-largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans. |
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Medicare Advantage enrollment |
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Percent of plans rated 4 stars or higher |
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Percent of plans with $0 premium |
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Anthem Medicare Advantage
Anthem
3.45
CMS Star Rating
Anthem’s plans offer a range of benefits and flexible care, but plans are available in only 14 states and receive below-average star ratings.
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States available
14 states
Members in high-rated plans
Low (49% or less)
Member experience
2.89 (Below average)
States available
14 states
Members in high-rated plans
Low (49% or less)
Member experience
2.89 (Below average)
Pros
- Most plans cover prescription drugs and offer some coverage for dental, hearing and vision care.
- Anthem’s “Essential Extras” benefits let members choose extra plan benefits that meet their needs, such as $500/year toward assistive devices or $150/quarter toward household utilities.
Cons
- Available in only 14 states.
- Below-average overall star rating and member experience scores from CMS.
- 4-star rated plans available in only three states.
Other factors to consider
Part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield collective, which is the 3rd-largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans. |
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Medicare Advantage enrollment |
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Percent of plans rated 4 stars or higher |
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Percent of plans with $0 premium |
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Find the right Medicare Advantage plan
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What are the plan’s costs? Do you understand what the plan’s premium, deductibles, copays and/or coinsurance will be? Can you afford them?
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Is your doctor in-network? If you have a preferred medical provider or providers, make sure they participate in the plan’s network.
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Are your prescriptions covered? If you’re on medication, it’s crucial to understand how the plan covers it. What tier are your prescription drugs on, and are there any coverage rules that apply to them?
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Is there dental coverage? Does the plan offer routine coverage for vision, dental and hearing needs?
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Are there extras? Does the plan offer any extra benefits, such as fitness memberships, transportation benefits or meal delivery?
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