Stanford Choice High-Deductible Health Plan
The Stanford Choice High-Deductible Health Plan, administered by Aetna, has a nationwide network and a deductible and is eligible for a health savings account (HSA) with a university contribution.
After you meet your deductible, the university shares the cost of all benefits, including prescription drugs. The university pays for a larger share if you use in-network providers and facilities. This is the only plan available through Stanford that works in conjunction with an HSA with a university contribution that can be used toward your out-of-pocket deductible costs.
For 2026, the out-of-area employee contribution for the Choice High-Deductible plan has been phased out, and all employees enrolled will have the same contributions. Stanford has increased its contribution to the Health Savings Account (HSA) in 2026 for those enrolled in the Choice HDHP who also elect an HSA.
Network
The Stanford Choice High-Deductible Health Plan uses the Aetna Choice POS II Network and offers coverage for both in-network and out-of-network services.
Aetna formulary for all three plans: Aetna Standard Plan
Outpatient Services
Aetna will help you locate high-quality and cost-effective options for diagnostic services, lab draws, imaging, colonoscopies, and other services. Visit Aetna’s website to compare costs or contact Aetna member services at 833-971-4583.
Advocacy Services and Clinical Care Management
Aetna offers a concierge program to help you maximize your benefits and guide you to the right resources. Clinical care specialists assist you in managing chronic medical conditions, answering questions, and finding the right doctors. Get started at Aetna’s website.
Plan Details
Traveling Outside the U.S.
Benefits will be provided for covered emergent and non-emergent services you receive anywhere in the world. We encourage you to see Aetna providers to help reduce your costs, but you still have the option to see any provider to get needed care. Members need to submit the claims to be reimbursed under the medical plan.
You can access services through the Aetna Choice POS II network.
If you need to file a claim for emergency care received while overseas, contact Aetna at 855-888-9046 or 215-775-6445 to have an international claim form sent to you.
Learn more about traveling outside the U.S.
Plan Documents
Summary of Benefits Coverage (SBC)
An SBC is an overview of plan benefits, deductibles, copays, and coverage levels for a variety of commonly used medical treatments and services. Summary of Benefits Coverage (SBC)
Evidence of Coverage (EOC) / Summary Plan Description (SPD)
An SPD or EOC is the official, detailed plan document for each plan outlining information about eligibility, costs and cost-sharing, included and excluded services, claims process, procedures for filing grievances, complaints, and appeals.
2026 Plan Documents:
SBC
EOC / SPD: coming soon
Resources
Stanford's Mental & Behavioral Health resources
Aetna Guide to Submitting International Claims for Reimbursement
Aetna Preventive Health Services flyer
Aetna Preventive Health Services Spanish flyer
Aetna Skin Cancer Awareness flyer
Aetna Skin Cancer Awareness Spanish flyer
Aetna Cholesterol Awareness flyer
Aetna Cholesterol Awareness Spanish flyer
Aetna Plans Hearing Aid Benefit flyer
How to Access Hearing Aid Benefits with Aetna flyer