Before we jump right into Connecticut health insurance and everything you need to know, let’s start with a little background information. In 2010, the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a “Obamacare” or ACA) was passed with the goal of getting all Americans access to affordable health insurance. To meet this goal, one measure Obamacare took was to create the ACA health insurance marketplaces, or health exchanges: one-stop shops where Americans can choose from a range of standardized, government-regulated health care plans. Health exchanges are also where eligible people can get subsidies, which lower the cost of their health plans.

States were given the option to run their own local exchange, take part in a multi-state exchange, or use the federal exchange. States that run their own exchanges get to customize many elements, including the time frame during which their residents can sign up for a plan. Several states decided to operate their own state exchanges and continue to do so to this day. Connecticut is one of those states.

Want to compare health plans in Connecticut? Enter your zip code below to get started.

Connecticut’s Health Insurance Landscape

The Connecticut health insurance exchange is called Access Health CT. Before the ACA, 8.9% of Connecticuters were uninsured in 2009. Since the introduction of Access Health CT, the percent of Connecticuters without health insurance has dropped to 5.9% as of 2019. Over 100 thousand people have enrolled for health insurance through Access Health CT.

The Connecticut Health Insurance Exchange

With Access Health CT, eligible people throughout the state can find subsidized ACA plans. Open Enrollment for 2022 in Connecticut begins November 1, 2021 and ends December 15, 2021. Your coverage will start January 1. This sign up window is the exact same as the window given on the federal exchange.

Access Health CT uses an active purchaser model for their exchange. This means that Access Health CT negotiates with health insurance carriers directly to get the best rates, networks, and benefits possible for you.

Like all other state exchanges, each plan on Access Health CT covers 10 essential health benefits. These include things like prescription coverage, maternity and mental health care, and laboratory services.

Buying insurance with Access Health CT involves four steps:

1. Create an account on Access Health CT

2. Complete the online application form

3. Compare your options

4. Select your plan and enroll

In true health insurance fashion, each of these steps can be trickier than you expect. Many people need help navigating the website, estimating their income, figuring out if they are eligible for subsidies, and understanding what documents are needed for proof of income, citizenship, or identity. Luckily, you can attend an enrollment fair where you can get in-person help with your application!

Access Health CT’s Intricacies: What You Need to Know for 2022

In 2021, two insurers offered plans on Access Health CT, and one more will be joining them for 2022 plans. These three carriers include:

• Anthem

• ConnectiCare Benefits, Inc.

• ConnectiCare Insurance Company (new)

in 2021, average health plan rates increased just .01%, which is lower than usual for Connecticut. In 2022, Anthem has proposed an increase of 12.3% and ConnectiCare Benefits, Inc. had proposed an increase of 7.4%. However, these increases are subject to approval by the Connecticut Insurance Department.

While rate increases may seem scary, many people qualify for a health insurance subsidy, which can help make your plan more affordable; of those enrolled through Access Health CT, 70% receive federal subsidies.

Connecticut’s Open Enrollment has begun, so find your most affordable plan, and you’ll be well on your way for smarter, better savings all year long. And don’t forget—if you need help finding a subsidy or picking a plan, our experts are here to help! Enter your zip code below to get started.