HARTFORD, Conn. — Connecticut’s official health insurance marketplace reported record enrollment for the third consecutive year, with more residents signing up for both health and dental coverage during the 2026 Open Enrollment Period.
Access Health CT said 157,246 residents enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) between Nov. 1 and Jan. 31, more than 6,000 above last year’s total — a 4% increase.
Enrollment in the Covered CT Program also surged. A total of 51,629 residents signed up, more than 10,000 higher than the previous year. The program provides free coverage to eligible residents by covering premiums and cost-sharing expenses.
Dental coverage saw notable growth as well. A total of 19,416 residents enrolled in dental plans, marking a 9% increase compared with the 2025 enrollment period.
The 2026 enrollment season coincided with significant state and federal policy changes. Enhanced premium tax credits introduced under the American Rescue Plan Act expired on Dec. 31, 2025, along with provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act. The end of those subsidies reduced financial assistance for many consumers nationwide, contributing to a drop of more than one million enrollees across the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, according to Access Health CT.
Despite the reduced federal aid, Connecticut posted enrollment gains.
Access Health CT attributed the increase to expanded outreach efforts. The marketplace promoted free enrollment assistance online, by phone and in person. It also expanded its Navigator program to six locations statewide and added four mobile enrollment specialists who participated in dozens of community events.
Last summer, the agency encouraged residents to work with certified brokers, who can explain policy changes and recommend plans. It also extended the enrollment deadline from Jan. 15 to Jan. 30 to give consumers more time to select coverage.
State officials introduced additional support to offset the loss of federal subsidies. Gov. Ned Lamont launched a 2026 Temporary Premium Assistance program in December to help eligible residents lower their insurance costs through the marketplace.
A Special Enrollment Period for qualifying residents began Feb. 1 and remains open.
Access Health CT Chief Executive Officer James Michel said the record enrollment reflects residents’ commitment to securing coverage.
“Having coverage means more access to preventive care, prescriptions and protection from unexpected medical costs,” Michel said. He added that the state’s financial assistance is helping ensure thousands of residents can maintain coverage despite rising premiums.
Michel also thanked staff, community partners, brokers, certified application counselors, board members and local leaders for their role in connecting residents with affordable health insurance options.