Finding the Best Health Plan in Connecticut for 2024

Connecticuters can purchase health insurance for 2024 through the Access Health CT state-run marketplace. Open enrollment began on November 1, 2024, and will end on January 31, 2024. It’s time to estimate your healthcare expenses for the year to ensure you have the necessary coverage. 

Best Health Plans in Connecticut

The chart below highlights the 13 best health insurance plans offered by Access Health CT insurers based on the lowest deductibles and monthly premiums for 2023. For this article, we used the persona of an unmarried 30-year-old female who does not smoke, has no disability, has no kids, and makes $70,000 annually to gather our data. Additionally, we used Fairfield County to account for the highest population in Connecticut based on U.S. Census Bureau Estimates. 

Based on her income information, she qualifies for an estimated $103.70 in federal tax credits per month. Tax credits work to help lower monthly insurance payments (premiums).  

13 Best Health Insurance Plans Based on Lowest Deductibles and Monthly Premiums

Source: AccessHealthCT

*Tier 1 plans include a $0 copay. Tier 2 plans include $50 copay for PCPs and a $100 copay for specialists.

Defining HMOs, PPOs, and POS Plans

Health insurance terms can be confusing. To save you several google searches, visit the Mira article to familiarize yourself with the most common terms you’ll come across when navigating your insurance process. 

Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs)

HMOs usually limit coverage to care among doctors working for or in contract with the HMO. Out-of-network coverage is generally not covered except in cases of emergency. Coverage may also depend on whether you live or work within the area they service. 

Features of HMOs include: 

• Typically have lower insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs
• Lots of flexibility in choosing providers
• Requires a primary care physician (PCP) referral before seeking specialty care
• If out-of-network providers are used, expect to pay entirely out-of-pocket

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

PPOs allow you to choose your preferred physician or healthcare provider, whether in-network or out-of-network. This means you don’t need a referral from a primary care physician to visit other providers.

Features of PPOs include:

• Typically have higher premiums than HMOs or POS plans
• Those enrolled can freely seek specialists and out-of-network physicians without a referral
• A great option for those requiring frequent and various care and who can afford higher premiums

Point of Service Plans (POSs): 

POS plans are a hybrid of HMO and PPO plans. You pay less for POS plans if you utilize providers within the plan’s network. 

Features of POS include: 

• Usually have higher premiums than HMOs because they cover out-of-network doctors and have higher expenses for in-network care
• Requires a referral from a primary care physician before seeing a specialist