A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding New Coverage When Banner/Aetna Leaves the ACA Marketplace
If you’re one of the 1 million people affected by CVS Health’s decision to exit the individual ACA market, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. The good news? You will have other options—and the earlier you start preparing, the smoother the switch will be.
Here’s how to take control of your health coverage transition:
🛠 Your 2026 Health Plan Transition Toolkit
Step-by-Step: How to Find a New ACA Plan When Aetna Leaves the Market
If you’re currently enrolled in an Aetna plan through the ACA marketplace, you’ll need new coverage starting in 2026. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are plenty of good options still available. The key is planning ahead and getting the right guidance.
A recent federal court decision has temporarily halted the implementation of several new restrictions on Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace enrollment and eligibility. These new standards, finalized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in June 2025 and slated to take effect in August 2025, aimed to combat fraud within the Exchange system. However, a lawsuit filed by various groups and cities alleged the rule was improperly issued and created barriers to affordable healthcare. Consequently, on August 22, 2025, the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland paused key provisions of the rule, including requirements for overdue premium payments, income verification processes, and eligibility for advance premium tax credits, while the litigation proceeds. This pause means that many of the stricter enrollment criteria will not be enforced as initially planned, though some other changes from the final rule, such as a shorter open enrollment period for 2027, remain in effect.
