Costco member insurance plans add Aetna PCP Choice: what practices need to know

Aetna beneficiaries who purchase their coverage through Costco Wholesale have a local primary care physician or other provider listed on their membership card this year. But they are not required to see that clinician.

The change to membership cards, explained in Aetna’s June 2025 provider newsletter, is due to Costco opting into Aetna’s “PCP Choice” feature. This update may raise questions for primary care practices, especially when patients arrive with a primary care physician or other provider listed on their ID card who isn’t affiliated with the clinic. Here’s what you need to know to avoid confusion and ensure smooth patient care and reimbursement.

PCP listed does not mean PCP locked in

The PCP Choice plan is Aetna’s attempt to encourage patients to establish a relationship with a primary care physician or other clinician. While member ID cards include the name of a local primary care clinician, it’s only a suggestion. Costco plan members can visit any in-network primary care physician or other clinician, and their copay remains the same.

What this means for practices

• Do not turn patients away if you’re not the person listed on their card.
• Aetna will still pay you for services provided to Costco plan members, as long as you’re in network.
• Patients won’t face financial penalties for choosing your practice, even if you’re not listed on the card.

If you have questions about claims or eligibility, visit the Contact Aetna page and select “Aetna service centers” from the drop-down menu. You can also call 1-888-632-3862 (TTY: 711) for assistance.

— Brennan Cantrell, AAFP Senior Strategist, Market Transformation

Posted on June 12, 2025