Aetna Lumbar Artificial Disc Replacement Settlement

The consolidated Hendricks and Howard actions challenged Aetna's practice of labeling single-level lumbar artificial disc replacement experimental and denying coverage under ERISA plans. Under the settlement, approved June 5, 2026, Aetna pays surgery reimbursements separately from the attorneys' fee award, so qualifying members can recover up to $55,000 for a procedure they paid for themselves, and former members can get equivalent support for future surgery. Claims require real medical and payment evidence, such as an operative report plus invoices, receipts, or wire records. The first claim deadline lands August 11, 2026, with later windows into September and December 2026 for certain reimbursement and current-member claims.

Members of ERISA-governed health plans insured or administered by Aetna whose requests for single-level lumbar artificial disc replacement surgery were denied between August 7, 2016 (Hendricks class) or March 4, 2019 (Howard class) and February 8, 2023.

Reimbursement of up to $55,000 for members who paid out of pocket for single-level L-ADR surgery; comparable relief of up to $55,000 toward future surgery for those no longer on Aetna coverage.

No payment amount is ever guaranteed. Pro rata payouts shrink as more valid claims come in, and every payment waits on final court approval and any appeals.

This settlement requires documentation. Check the official claim form for exactly what is accepted before you start; receipts, account statements, repair invoices, or records from the defendant are typical.