Aetna offers targeted health plans for diabetes care

(HealthDay)—Aetna is offering targeted diabetes plans, which include low copays for specialists that patients with diabetes need, as well as free supplies and a care management program, according to a report published by Kaiser Health News.

The plans will be offered in four regions next year and are specifically tailored to the needs of patients with diabetes. They feature $10 copays for specialists relevant to patients with diabetes, such as endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, and podiatrists; free blood glucose test strips, glucose monitors, and other supplies; a care management program with online tools and coaching; and financial incentives for certain health behaviors.

The plans are part of a new line of plans offered by Aetna, called leap plans, which, according to Aetna, will be simpler to use and will have more customer service. It is unclear whether the plans are actually better for patients with diabetes; the decreased rates for specialist visits are only for diabetes-related visits, and coverage for medications is no different than in other gold plans.

Aetna is debuting the diabetes plans next year in Charlotte, N.C., Phoenix, Northern Virginia, and southeastern Pennsylvania, according to the article.