Access Health CT Header Logo
Access Health CT

Access Health CT Enrolls Record Number of Connecticut Residents in Health Insurance for 2025

But the cost of health insurance in Connecticut could skyrocket if Congress does not act this year

HARTFORD, Conn. (Feb. 25, 2025) — Access Health CT (AHCT) reported a record number of Connecticut residents enrolled in health and dental insurance for 2025 during the Open Enrollment Period, which ran from Nov. 1, 2024 to Jan. 15, 2025.

However, tens of thousands of Connecticut residents could see their health coverage costs increase dramatically next year if Congress does not act to extend the enhanced subsidies that are a critical part of making coverage affordable through federal and state-based marketplaces like AHCT.

A total of 151,151 Connecticut residents enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) for 2025, compared to 129,000 at the end of the Open Enrollment Period in 2024. That includes 41,165 residents enrolled in the no-cost Covered CT Program, compared to 27,393 last year. In addition, AHCT enrolled more residents in dental coverage, for a total of 17,756.

“We are proud of another record-breaking enrollment year for Access Health CT because it means more Connecticut residents than ever are getting the coverage they need to live healthy lives,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “Access Health CT is the only place Connecticut residents can get financial help to pay for their health insurance. And one of the great benefits of this coverage is potentially life-saving preventive screenings that customers can get at no cost.”

This financial help is at risk. The enhanced subsidies created as part of the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and extended by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) have significantly expanded health insurance coverage access and affordability for millions of Americans. But they are set to expire at the end of this year.

If the subsidies do expire, the Congressional Budget Office expects nearly four million Americans will lose their insurance by 2034, leading to a sicker country overall. Without the enhanced subsidies available, healthier-than-average people could likely exit the marketplaces, causing insurers to raise premiums for the remaining enrollees.

Since the enhanced subsidies were introduced, the number of individuals receiving financial assistance in Connecticut has increased by nearly 30%. Approximately 90% of AHCT customers now receive financial help.

Without these subsidies, Connecticut residents could expect to pay $1,700 more on average per year for their health insurance. Some residents will see a nearly $3,000 increase per year.

“We are fortunate to have strong local advocates at the legislative level who have championed increased access to health coverage and making it more affordable. Connecticut senators and congresspeople have also supported the enhanced subsidies that have helped so many of our residents,” said Michel. “We hope the Connecticut delegation will continue to advocate for the extension of these subsidies and encourage their colleagues from across the country to join them in support of all Americans.”

Access Health CT Small Business Announces New BusinessPlus Platform

New platform makes it easy to enroll employees in an alternative option to traditional group coverage 

HARTFORD, Conn. (Feb. 20, 2025) — Access Health CT (AHCT) Small Business today announced its new BusinessPlus platform to help Connecticut business owners manage health benefits more efficiently. BusinessPlus provides access to Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs) and will launch this summer.

Introduced by the federal government in 2019, an ICHRA is a type of health benefit where employers can provide employees with pretax dollars to help cover their health insurance premiums and qualified medical expenses. With this option, Connecticut employees can shop, compare and enroll in one of the 22 Qualified Health Plan (QHP) options offered through AHCT’s individual marketplace.

Previously, employers had limited plan choices, a one-size-fits-all solution for an employee base that was not one size. And with rates increasing annually, employers were faced with offering expensive options or nothing at all.

BusinessPlus provides a more flexible, simple and affordable option for Connecticut employers.

With an ICHRA, employers can offer coverage through the state-based exchange for some, or all, of their employees. Employers can provide a pretax monthly contribution for employees to help offset the cost of insurance premiums. Or in some instances, if an employee qualifies for subsidies through the exchange, the employee can use Advanced Premium Tax Credits (APTCs) to offset the cost of premiums, and the employer would not provide any contributions at all – a significant advantage to both the employer and employee.

Employees use the employer contributions or APTCs to reduce the cost of their health insurance plan through AHCT’s individual marketplace. This offers employers a way to remain competitive while decreasing costs and offering more health coverage options for their employees. And with the employer’s contributions, employees will benefit from lower costs and the freedom to choose health coverage based on their needs.

“The BusinessPlus platform is the first ever to be fully developed by a state-based marketplace,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “We are thrilled to roll out this new platform and continue our mission-driven work of reducing the uninsured rate in our state. We will share more information in the coming months and look forward to providing innovative solutions for the Connecticut business community.”

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Named One of the “Best Places to Work in Connecticut” by the Hartford Business Journal

Access Health CT received this distinction for the sixth year in a row

HARTFORD, Conn. (Feb. 6, 2025) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it was honored by the Hartford Business Journal and Workforce Research Group as one of the “Best Places to Work in Connecticut” for a sixth consecutive year. The honorees will be recognized at a ceremony at the Aqua Turf Club in Southington March 13.

“It’s our outstanding team at Access Health CT that makes it one of the best places to work in Connecticut,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “Their commitment to our customers and our mission to reduce the rate of the uninsured and eliminate health disparities is inspiring. They make Access Health CT a positive, supportive place to be every day. I congratulate them all on this recognition for the sixth year in a row.”

The “Best Places to Work in Connecticut” is a survey and awards program that honors employers in Connecticut who are creating exceptional workplaces. It is presented by the Hartford Business Journal in partnership with the independent research firm, Workforce Research Group.

To be considered, a company must be publicly or privately held, be a for-profit, nonprofit, or a government organization, have a physical operation in Connecticut, have at least 15 full- or part-time employees working in the state and must be in business a minimum of one year.

The submission process consists of a two-part survey assessment. The first part, to be completed by the employer, captures details about policies and practices. The second part, to be completed by employees, captures their opinions about their workplace experience.

The rankings will be published in the March 18 issue of the Hartford Business Journal.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Final Enrollment Deadline Approaching

Customers who enroll on or before Jan. 15, 2025 will have coverage beginning Feb. 1, 2025

HARTFORD, Conn. (Jan. 6, 2025) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced the deadline to enroll in health and dental coverage starting Feb. 1, 2025 is Jan. 15, 2025. This is the final deadline for the 2025 Open Enrollment Period. 

The Open Enrollment Period for Connecticut residents to shop, compare and enroll in health insurance or renew their coverage began Nov. 1, 2024. Customers may enroll in either health or dental coverage, or both.

AHCT is the only place state residents can get financial help to pay for their health insurance. Nearly 90% of customers received financial assistance last year. Some customers might qualify for the Covered CT Program. This program provides no-cost coverage for eligible residents.

There are 22 Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) for customers to choose from. Plans are available from Anthem, ConnectiCare Benefits Inc. and ConnectiCare Insurance Company, Inc.

“If you have not enrolled in health coverage for 2025, now is the time to do so,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “We encourage you to take this important step in making sure you and your family have a happy, healthy year.”

There are several ways to get free help in person, online and over the phone.

AHCT is hosting five one-day enrollment fairs throughout the state during January. Customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. For a list of enrollment fairs and to register, visit the Enrollment Events webpage on the AHCT website. Information about enrollment locations and Navigator locations is also listed.

Customers can also get help from aCertified Broker or Enrollment Specialist in their community.

To find a broker near you, go online to AccessHealthCT.com and click ‘Get Help’.

“Our Certified Brokers can help make sure you’re enrolling in the right plan for you,” Michel said.

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat live with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Live chat is available from 8:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. Jan. 15, 2025.

To get help over the phone, customers can call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight Jan. 15, 2025.

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT to Host Free, In-Person Events to Help Connecticut Residents Enroll in Health and Dental Plans

The Open Enrollment Period ends on Jan. 15, 2025

HARTFORD, Conn. (Jan. 3, 2025) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it will hold five enrollment fairs in January to help Connecticut residents shop, compare, and enroll in health or dental coverage. They can also renew their coverage.

Enrollment fairs are one-day events where customers can get free, in-person help to enroll or renew their coverage and help from experts in choosing a plan.

The final Jan. 15, 2025 enrollment deadline is approaching. If customers enroll on or before Jan. 15, 2025, coverage will start Feb. 1, 2025. The Open Enrollment Period began on Nov. 1, 2024.

Connecticut residents who want to attend a fair can book an appointment on the Enrollment Events webpage on AccessHealthCT.com. Walk-in appointments are welcome.

The enrollment fairs will take place at the following places and times:

“Enrolling in health and dental coverage is a great way to start the new year,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “We can help get you enrolled in a plan that works best for you and your family. And all help is free.”

Other options for free help are available online, in person and over the phone.

In addition to enrollment fairs, customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. A list of these locations is available on the Enrollment Events webpage.

Customers can also get help from acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find one, visit the Get Help webpage.

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Customers can also call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight on Jan. 15, 2025.

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Enrollment Deadline Approaching

Customers who enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2024 will have coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2025

HARTFORD, Conn. (Dec. 9, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced the deadline to enroll in health and dental coverage starting Jan. 1, 2025 is Dec. 15, 2024. Customers who enroll Dec. 16, 2024 through Jan. 15, 2025 will have coverage starting Feb. 1, 2025.

The Open Enrollment Period for Connecticut residents to shop, compare and enroll in health insurance or renew their coverage began Nov. 1, 2024 and runs through Jan. 15, 2025. Customers may enroll in only health or dental coverage, or both.

AHCT is the only place state residents can get financial help to pay for their health insurance. Nearly 90% of AHCT customers receive financial assistance to help pay for their health insurance. Some customers might qualify for the Covered CT Program. This program provides no-cost coverage for eligible residents.

There are 22 Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) available for customers to choose from for plans starting in 2025. Plans are available from three insurance carriers, including Anthem, ConnectiCare Benefits Inc. and ConnectiCare Insurance Company Inc.

As of Nov. 1, 2024 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients who live in Connecticut can enroll in health and dental insurance through AHCT. DACA recipients are not eligible for Medicaid, with the exception of some children and pregnant women in Connecticut.

“Having health insurance is important all year long,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel, “which is why we urge you to enroll by Dec. 15, 2024 for coverage starting Jan. 1, 2025. If you need help, we offer in-person assistance, virtual chat online, a call center, and we can even connect you with a broker or Certified Application Counselor to help you with the enrollment process. All help is free.”

There are several ways to get free help in person, online and over the phone.

AHCT hosts one-day enrollment fairs throughout the state. Enrollment fairs are usually held in the evening during the week or on weekends. Customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. For a list of enrollment fairs and to register, visit the Enrollment Events webpage on the AHCT website. Information about enrollment locations and Navigator locations is also listed.

Customers can also get help from aCertified Broker or Enrollment Specialist in their community.

“Our brokers are free to work with and are ready to help their community,” said Michel. “To find a broker near you, go online to AccessHealthCT.com and click ‘Get Help’ or call our call center. They are a great resource for whatever you may need while enrolling.”

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat live with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

To get help over the phone, customers can call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight Dec. 15, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025.

The call center will be closed Dec. 25, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025.  

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT to Host Free, In-Person Events to Help Connecticut Residents Enroll in Health and Dental Plans

Customers who enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2024 will have coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2025

HARTFORD, Conn. (Nov. 26, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it will hold seven enrollment fairs in December to help Connecticut residents shop, compare, and enroll in health or dental coverage. They can also renew their coverage.

Enrollment fairs are one-day events where customers can get free, in-person help to enroll or renew their coverage and help from experts in choosing a plan.

Open Enrollment began Nov. 1, 2024 and ends Jan. 15, 2025.

The Dec. 15, 2024 enrollment deadline is approaching. If customers enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2024, coverage will start Jan. 1, 2025. If they enroll between Dec. 16, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025, coverage will start Feb. 1, 2025.

Connecticut residents who want to attend a fair can book an appointment on the Enrollment Events webpage on AccessHealthCT.com. Walk-in appointments are welcome.

The enrollment fairs will take place at the following places and times:

“We know people are busy this time of year. We want to make sure they have options when making plans to get in-person help to enroll,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “Our experts are ready to answer your questions and help you enroll in a plan that best fits your needs.”

Other options for free help are available online, in person and over the phone.

In addition to enrollment fairs, customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. A list of these locations is available on the Enrollment Events webpage.

Customers can also get help from acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find one, visit the Get Help webpage.

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Customers can also call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Nov. 29, 2024, and 8:00 a.m. to midnight Dec. 15, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025.

The call center will be closed on Nov. 28, 2024, Dec. 25, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025.

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT to Host Free, In-Person Events to Help Connecticut Residents Enroll in Health Insurance

Enrollment Specialists available at events to help consumers in English and Spanish

HARTFORD, Conn. (Nov. 1, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it will hold 10 enrollment fairs in November to help Connecticut residents shop, compare, and enroll in health or dental coverage. They can also renew their coverage. Enrollment fairs are one-day events for customers to get free, in-person help from experts. The fairs will take place in Bridgeport, Bristol, Fairfield, Hartford, Middletown, New Haven, Norwalk, Torrington, Waterbury and Willimantic.

Open Enrollment begins today. When you enroll affects when your coverage starts. If customers enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2024, coverage will start Jan. 1, 2025. If they enroll between Dec. 16, 2024, and Jan. 15, 2025, coverage will start Feb. 1, 2025.

Connecticut residents who want to attend a fair can book an appointment online on the Enrollment Events webpage on AccessHealthCT.com. Walk-in appointments are welcome.

The enrollment fairs will take place at the following places and times:

“If you have questions or want to sign up for health insurance, we encourage you to visit one of our enrollment fairs,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “Picking the right plan for you and your family is important. We are holding 26 events all over the state throughout the Open Enrollment period to help all residents get the support they need.”

Other options for free help are available online, in person and over the phone.

In addition to enrollment fairs, customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. A list of these locations is available on the Enrollment Events webpage.

Customers can also get help from acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find one, visit the Get Help webpage.

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Customers can also call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight on Dec. 15, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025.

The call center will be closed on Nov. 28, 2024, Nov. 29, 2024, Dec. 25, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025.

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

Access Health CT

Access Health CT Open Enrollment Period Begins November 1

Connecticut residents can shop, compare and enroll in quality health insurance plans from

Nov. 1, 2024 through Jan. 15, 2025

HARTFORD, Conn. (Oct. 31, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) announced the Open Enrollment period begins Nov. 1, 2024 and ends Jan. 15, 2025. Connecticut residents can shop, compare, and enroll in health insurance plans or renew their coverage. Customers may also enroll in dental insurance through AHCT.

When you enroll affects when your coverage starts. If customers enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2024, coverage will start Jan. 1, 2025. If they enroll between Dec. 16, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025, coverage will start Feb. 1, 2025.

AHCT is the only place Connecticut residents can get financial help to pay for their health insurance. Nearly 90% of AHCT customers enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) receive assistance. Some customers might also qualify for the Covered CT Program. This program provides no cost insurance for eligible residents.

There are 22 Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) available for customers to choose from this year. Plans are available from three insurance carriers, including Anthem, ConnectiCare Benefits Inc., and ConnectiCare Insurance Company Inc.

Starting Nov. 1, people who are part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) program and live in Connecticut can sign up for health and dental insurance through AHCT.

“This is the time to take control of your health. Enroll in a health and dental plan and remember to get your preventive care. Annual checkups and health screenings can help you detect or prevent illness and disease,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel. “We’re here to help you get the health coverage you need to live a healthy life.”

Free help to sign up is available online, in person and over the phone.

There are many ways to get free, in-person help. AHCT hosts one-day enrollment fairs throughout the state. Enrollment fairs are usually held in the evening during the week or on weekends. Customers can also visit enrollment locations and Navigator partner locations during regular business hours. For a list of enrollment fairs and to register, visit the Enrollment Events webpage on the AHCT website. Information about enrollment locations and Navigator locations are also listed.

Customers can also get help from acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community.

“Brokers are a wonderful resource for Connecticut residents,” said Michel. “They are free to work with and our network includes brokers who can speak in many different languages. If you would like help with the application process or would like to work with an expert who can help make a plan recommendation, a broker can help. Go online to AccessHealthCT.com and click ‘Get Help’ or call our call center to find a broker that can work with you.”

To get help over the phone, customers can call 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is available in over 100 languages.

The call center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to midnight on Dec. 15, 2024 and Jan. 15, 2025.

The call center will be closed on Nov. 28, 2024, Nov. 29, 2024, Dec. 25, 2024 and Jan. 1, 2025.  

Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call a relay operator.

For free help online, customers can visit AccessHealthCT.com. They can also chat live with a customer service representative by clicking the “Live Chat” icon on the website. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.

Access Health CT

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) Recipients Eligible for Health Insurance Through Access Health CT

Eligibility begins November 1

HARTFORD, Conn. (Oct. 24, 2024) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) recipients will be eligible to enroll in health insurance coverage through state-based marketplaces beginning Nov. 1. This change in the law means DACA recipients living in Connecticut can enroll in health and dental insurance plans offered through AHCT.

DACA is a policy that defers deportation for eligible individuals who do not have a lawful U.S. immigration status.

DACA recipients from birth to 15 years old, or DACA recipients who are pregnant, may be eligible for HUSKY Health programs, including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

DACA recipients who will be newly eligible to enroll in coverage through a state-based marketplace starting November 1 may also be eligible for financial help to pay for their health insurance. Eligibility is based on address, income and number of household members. Financial help is not available towards the cost of dental plans.

Anyone who becomes a DACA recipient will qualify for a 60-day Special Enrollment Period (SEP). The SEP will begin on the day deferred action is granted or on November 1 for 2024 coverage for those already granted deferred action.

“Our mission at Access Health CT is to reduce the rate of the uninsured and eliminate health disparities,” said Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer, James Michel. “This new opportunity allows for even more people living in Connecticut to get insured, which will improve overall health outcomes in our communities.”

“Our customers can receive enrollment help in over 100 languages when they contact our call center, as well as get in-person help through a broker or one of our Navigator community partners around the state,” Michel continued. “We are here to assist them in getting the important insurance coverage they need to live healthy lives.”

DACA recipients can find free help and enroll online, in person or by phone.

For free help and to enroll, customers may contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Enrollment help is available over the phone in more than 100 languages. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call 1-855-805-4325 with a relay operator.

There are several ways to get free in-person help. Customers may work with acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find a certified broker or enrollment specialist, visit the Get Help webpage at www.accesshealthct.com/get-help.

In addition, customers may visit any of AHCT’s Navigator partner locations. Expert help from enrollment specialists is available at these locations year-round. Please contact the site in advance to make an appointment.

AHCT Navigator locations include the Community Health Center Association of CT (CHCACT) in Norwich and Willimantic, Community Renewal Team (CRT) in Hartford, the Cornell Scott Hill Health Center in New Haven, the Greater Bridgeport Area Prevention Program (GBAPP) in Bridgeport and New Opportunities, Inc. in Waterbury.

For free online help, customers may visit AccessHealthCT.com. Live chat is available by clicking the “Live Chat” icon to connect with a customer service representative in real time. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.