Record Enrollment in Connecticut Health and Dental Insurance

Access Health CT reports highest-ever sign-ups during 2026 Open Enrollment Period

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Connecticut's health insurance marketplace, Access Health CT, announced a record number of residents enrolled in health and dental insurance during the 2026 Open Enrollment Period. A total of 157,246 people enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan, over 6,000 more than last year, representing a 4% increase. Enrollment in the state's Covered CT Program, which offers free coverage for eligible residents, also reached a new high of 51,629 people.

Why it matters

The record-breaking enrollment numbers in Connecticut come despite the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits and other federal subsidies, which had previously made health coverage more affordable for many. The state's efforts to boost outreach and provide additional financial assistance appear to have helped offset the impact of the subsidy changes.

The details

Access Health CT expanded its Navigator program and added new mobile enrollment specialists to increase awareness and help residents sign up for coverage. The state also launched a Temporary Premium Assistance program in December 2025 to lower costs for eligible residents purchasing plans through the marketplace. Additionally, Access Health CT extended the Open Enrollment deadline to give customers more time to choose a plan.

  • The 2026 Open Enrollment Period ran from November 1, 2025 to January 31, 2026.
  • The American Rescue Plan Act's enhanced premium tax credits expired on December 31, 2025.
  • The Inflation Reduction Act's subsidies also expired on December 31, 2025.

The players

Access Health CT

Connecticut's official health insurance marketplace that administers the state's Affordable Care Act exchange.

Gov. Ned Lamont

The Governor of Connecticut who launched the 2026 Temporary Premium Assistance program to help offset the impact of expiring federal subsidies.

James Michel

The Chief Executive Officer of Access Health CT, who praised the record enrollment numbers and the efforts of staff and partners in connecting residents with affordable coverage.

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What they’re saying

“Having coverage means more access to preventive care, prescriptions and protection from unexpected medical costs. With monthly premium costs increasing following the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits, the financial help announced by Gov. Lamont is helping ensure thousands of Connecticut residents can still access coverage for themselves and their families.”

— James Michel, Chief Executive Officer, Access Health CT (fox61.com)

“I am very thankful for our staff, community partners, brokers, certified application counselors, board of directors and local leaders who worked tirelessly to help residents understand their options and find coverage.”

— James Michel, Chief Executive Officer, Access Health CT (fox61.com)

What’s next

Access Health CT is currently offering a Special Enrollment Period for customers who qualify, which began on February 1, 2026.

The takeaway

Connecticut's successful efforts to boost health insurance enrollment despite the loss of federal subsidies demonstrate the state's commitment to ensuring residents have access to affordable coverage. The record-breaking sign-ups highlight the importance of robust outreach, financial assistance programs, and partnerships with local organizations in helping people navigate the complexities of the health insurance marketplace.