# Aetna > Aetna is a leading American managed healthcare company that sells traditional and consumer-directed health care insurance plans and related services. Founded in 1853, it is one of the oldest and largest insurance providers in the United States, operating as a subsidiary of CVS Health Corporation. The company provides a broad range of products including medical, pharmacy, dental, behavioral health, and long-term care plans. - URL: https://optimly.ai/brand/aetna - Slug: aetna - BAI Score: 94/100 - Archetype: Challenger - Category: Healthcare - Last Analyzed: April 10, 2026 - Part of: CVS Health (https://optimly.ai/brand/cvs-health) ## Competitors - Cigna HealthCare (https://optimly.ai/brand/cigna-healthcare) - Humana (https://optimly.ai/brand/humana) ## Also Referenced By - Anthem (Elevance Health) (https://optimly.ai/brand/anthem-elevance-health) ## Buyer Intent Signals Problems: Self-Funding / Cash Pay: Individual health savings and paying for medical expenses out-of-pocket without traditional insurance. | Public Safety Net/Uninsured Status: Relying on state-provided emergency services or community clinics for reactive care only. Solutions: best medicare advantage plans 2024 | health insurance for small business | nationwide dental insurance providers | affordable health insurance for families | Health Care Sharing Ministries (HCSMs): Joining a non-insurance community where members share medical costs based on common religious or ethical beliefs. Comparisons: PPO vs HMO plans for employers