Connecticut Health Insurance Companies: Anthem vs. ConnectiCare (2026)
If you’re looking at health insurance in Connecticut, one of the first things you’ll want to know is which companies actually sell plans here and how they compare. The individual marketplace has fewer Connecticut health insurance companies than you might expect, and each one takes a different approach to networks, pricing, and extra benefits. This guide covers what each company offers, where they differ, and what to look for based on your situation.
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Health Insurance Companies Available in Connecticut
Connecticut’s individual and family health insurance market is served by two Connecticut health insurance companies operating through the state marketplace, Access Health CT. The Connecticut Insurance Department reported a record 157,246 residents enrolled in qualified health plans for 2026, split between Anthem and ConnectiCare, and approved an average rate increase of 16.8% for individual plans and 11% for small group plans, reflecting higher prescription drug costs and increased utilization.
While both carriers must cover all 10 Essential Health Benefits under the ACA and cannot deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions, each company takes a different approach to network design, plan structure, and pricing. Understanding those differences helps Connecticut residents make a more informed decision when selecting coverage through the Connecticut health insurance marketplace.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield is the largest health insurer in Connecticut by both enrollment and provider network. Operating as Anthem Health Plans (a subsidiary of Elevance Health), Anthem offers individual marketplace plans in HMO, PPO, and EPO network types across Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers. For a 40-year-old, Anthem’s average monthly premium is approximately $850 before subsidies — the lowest of any carrier on the Connecticut marketplace.
Network Reach
Largest in CTAnthem maintains the largest provider network in Connecticut with access to both in-state and national Blue Cross Blue Shield facilities. Residents who travel frequently or have specialists outside of Connecticut benefit from Anthem’s broader geographic coverage.
Plan Types Offered
HMO / PPO / EPOAnthem is the only Connecticut marketplace carrier offering PPO plans, which allow out-of-network care at a higher cost. EPO plans cover out-of-network emergency care only, while HMO plans require in-network providers and referrals for specialists.
Average Premiums
~$850/moAnthem’s average premium for a 40-year-old is approximately $850/month before subsidies — the lowest on the marketplace. Bronze HMO plans start around $602/month while Gold PPO plans reach approximately $988/month.
Parent Company
Elevance HealthAnthem Health Plans is a subsidiary of Elevance Health (formerly Anthem, Inc.), one of the largest health benefits companies in the United States. Elevance serves over 46 million medical members nationally across its Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliates.
Anthem’s PPO plans are especially relevant for Connecticut residents who want flexibility to see out-of-network specialists without a referral. A deeper look at how PPO health insurance plans work can help determine whether the higher premium is worth the added flexibility. Residents comparing PPO options across states can also explore nationwide PPO health insurance plans to benchmark Connecticut pricing against broader market options. Anthem also offers the widest range of deductible and out-of-pocket options across tiers, giving residents more control over cost structure.
ConnectiCare
ConnectiCare is a Connecticut-focused health insurer that operates through two subsidiaries on the marketplace: ConnectiCare Benefits, Inc. and ConnectiCare Insurance Company, Inc. Both entities are now part of Molina Healthcare, a national managed care company. ConnectiCare offers HMO and POS plans across Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers, with average premiums ranging from $885 to $1,096/month for a 40-year-old before subsidies.
Network Focus
CT-CenteredConnectiCare operates a broad provider network focused on Connecticut facilities and physicians. Residents who receive all their care within the state will find strong in-network access, though out-of-state options are more limited than Anthem.
Plan Types Offered
HMO / POSConnectiCare specializes in HMO and POS plans. POS plans offer some out-of-network flexibility with a referral from a primary care provider, bridging the gap between HMO restrictions and full PPO access at a lower cost.
Average Premiums
~$885–$1,096/moConnectiCare premiums are higher on average than Anthem, starting around $885/month for a 40-year-old. The higher cost reflects a different actuarial mix and POS plan pricing rather than a difference in coverage quality.
Extra Benefits
Dental + VisionSelect ConnectiCare plans include integrated adult dental and vision benefits at no additional premium. These bundled benefits are not available on Anthem’s individual marketplace plans, making ConnectiCare attractive for residents who value all-in-one coverage.
ConnectiCare’s POS plans occupy a middle ground that appeals to residents who want some specialist flexibility without paying full PPO premiums. Residents who want the lowest possible monthly cost, however, will typically find better pricing with Anthem’s HMO or EPO options.
Anthem vs. ConnectiCare: Side-by-Side Comparison
This table compares the two Connecticut health insurance companies across the factors that matter most when choosing a carrier: plan types, average cost, network size, and included benefits. Both carriers are available statewide through Access Health CT.
| Feature | Anthem BCBS | ConnectiCare |
|---|---|---|
| Parent Company | Elevance Health | Molina Healthcare |
| Plan Types | HMO, PPO, EPO | HMO, POS |
| Avg. Premium (Age 40) | ~$850/month | ~$885–$1,096/month |
| Bronze HMO (Age 40) | ~$602/month | ~$650/month |
| Network Scope | In-state + national BCBS | Connecticut-focused |
| Out-of-Network Coverage | PPO plans: Yes | POS plans: Limited |
| Dental/Vision Included | Pediatric only | Select plans include adult |
| Metal Tiers | Bronze, Silver, Gold | Bronze, Silver, Gold |
Both Connecticut health insurance companies offer the same metal tiers and must cover identical Essential Health Benefits. The choice between Anthem and ConnectiCare typically comes down to whether you prioritize lower premiums and broader network access (Anthem) or bundled dental/vision benefits and POS flexibility (ConnectiCare). The Connecticut health insurance overview covers how these carriers compare on age-based pricing across all tiers.
Which Connecticut Health Insurance Company Is Right for You?
Choosing between the two Connecticut health insurance companies depends on your healthcare needs, budget, and how you prefer to access care. Here are some common scenarios and which carrier tends to be the better fit.
You Want the Lowest Premium
AnthemAnthem’s Bronze HMO plans start around $602/month for a 40-year-old — the lowest-cost option on the Connecticut marketplace. If monthly cost is the top priority and you’re comfortable with an HMO network, Anthem is typically the better choice.
You Need Out-of-Network Access
Anthem PPOAnthem is the only carrier offering PPO plans on the Connecticut marketplace. If you see specialists outside the state or want the freedom to visit any provider without a referral, Anthem’s PPO plans are your only marketplace option.
You Want Dental and Vision Included
ConnectiCareSelect ConnectiCare plans bundle adult dental and vision benefits into the health plan premium. If you’d rather not purchase a separate dental plan and want consolidated coverage, ConnectiCare is the carrier to check first.
You Want Some Flexibility Without PPO Cost
ConnectiCare POSConnectiCare’s POS plans offer limited out-of-network access with a referral at lower premiums than Anthem’s PPO. This middle-ground option works well for residents who occasionally need out-of-network care but don’t want to pay full PPO pricing.
Check Your Providers Before Enrolling
Before choosing a carrier, verify that your current doctors and preferred hospitals participate in the plan’s network. According to HealthCare.gov, checking provider directories and prescription drug formularies before enrolling is one of the most important steps in avoiding unexpected costs. Both Anthem and ConnectiCare provide online tools where you can search by doctor name, specialty, or location.
Connecticut residents who qualify for financial assistance will find that subsidies apply equally to both carriers. The decision between Anthem and ConnectiCare should focus on network fit and plan features rather than subsidy availability. More detail on how subsidies and cost-reduction programs work is available in the affordable health insurance in Connecticut guide. Residents who need temporary coverage while deciding between carriers can also review short-term health insurance in Connecticut.
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut Health Insurance Companies
Why are there only two health insurance companies on the Connecticut marketplace?
Connecticut’s individual marketplace has had two participating carriers since the exchange launched. The state’s relatively small population and strict regulatory environment create a market that supports two well-established carriers rather than many smaller ones. Both Anthem and ConnectiCare offer multiple plan options across all metal tiers, giving residents meaningful choice despite the limited carrier count.
Can I switch between Anthem and ConnectiCare during the year?
You can only switch carriers during the annual open enrollment period or during a Special Enrollment Period triggered by a qualifying life event such as losing coverage, getting married, or moving. Outside of those windows, you must stay with your current carrier and plan until the next enrollment opportunity.
Do both carriers offer the same prescription drug coverage?
Both carriers cover prescription drugs as one of the 10 Essential Health Benefits, but their formularies differ. Each carrier maintains its own list of covered medications and assigns them to different cost tiers. Before enrolling, check each carrier’s formulary to confirm that your current medications are covered and at what cost tier.
Are Anthem and ConnectiCare plans the same price on and off the marketplace?
Yes, the base premium for a given plan is identical whether purchased through Access Health CT or directly from the carrier. The key difference is that premium tax credits, cost-sharing reductions, Covered Connecticut, and the 2026 Temporary Premium Assistance are only available through the marketplace. Most Connecticut residents pay significantly less when purchasing through Access Health CT.
Which carrier has better customer satisfaction ratings?
Customer satisfaction varies by plan type and individual experience. The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) rates both Anthem and ConnectiCare plans. Checking NCQA ratings alongside the Connecticut Insurance Department’s complaint ratios can give a more complete picture of each carrier’s service quality before you enroll.
Does ConnectiCare’s dental coverage replace the need for a stand-alone dental plan?
On select ConnectiCare plans that include integrated adult dental benefits, the coverage may be sufficient for routine care such as cleanings, exams, and basic restorative work. However, the level of dental coverage varies by plan. Residents with significant dental needs should compare ConnectiCare’s integrated benefits against a stand-alone dental plan available through the marketplace to determine which provides better value.
Related Connecticut Coverage Guides
Plans, costs by age, and carrier comparisons.
Marketplace Enrollment GuideHow to enroll, deadlines, and qualifying events.
Affordable Health Insurance in ConnecticutLow-cost options, subsidies, and savings strategies.
Short-Term Health Insurance in ConnecticutTemporary coverage options and limitations.
PPO vs. HMO vs. EPO vs. POSCompare plan types and find the right network for you.
PPO Health Insurance PlansHow PPO plans work and when they make sense.
Compare Anthem and ConnectiCare Side by Side
With two carriers, different network types, and subsidies that could bring your premium to $0, the right plan depends on your doctors, prescriptions, and household income. See every option with real pricing for your zip code in minutes.
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