Access Health CT Awarded $1.1 Million Grant From Centers For Medicare And Medicaid Services

HARTFORD - Access Health CT (AHCT) has been awarded $1.1 million of grant funding from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The grant will be used to financially support the implementation of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), helping to make health insurance more affordable for Connecticut residents. The funds will additionally aid technology modernization projects that will enhance consumer experiences within the online customer portal. The grant funding was made possible through ARPA.

ARPA is making health insurance coverage more affordable and accessible for many Connecticut residents during the pandemic by virtually eliminating or vastly reducing monthly payments (premiums). This financial help is offered only through Access Health CT and benefits many, including those with somewhat higher incomes who can face high premiums.

James Michel, chief executive officer of Access Health CT, said the funding is essential to help the state's official health insurance marketplace.

"The grant funding is essential to helping us provide this increased assistance in pursuit of our mission-to reduce the number of uninsured residents in Connecticut - and continually improve the customer experience," Michel further noted.

Michel offered thanks on behalf of Access Health CT to the Connecticut Congressional delegation, Congress, and President Biden for making the funding available.

Connecticut residents can continue to enroll in quality, affordable health insurance plans, including the newly available financial help. The current Special Enrollment period ends October 31 with coverage starting in the 2021 plan year, and the annual Open Enrollment Period begins November 1 for health insurance coverage starting in the 2022 plan year.

The new Covered Connecticut Program enrollment deadline has been extended until December 31 or the end of Open Enrollment. Through this program, eligible parents and caregivers in Connecticut are paying $0 for their health insurance through Access Health CT.

For more information, including eligibility requirements for the program and on how to enroll, visit AccessHealthCT.com.