CT Health Rates Skyrocket: Insurers Demand Huge Hikes

Connecticut is bracing for significant health insurance rate increases proposed for 2027, impacting nearly 220,000 residents across individual and small group plans. ConnectiCare, United Healthcare, and Anthem have proposed average hikes of nearly 23%, 19%, and 13% respectively for individual plans. Small group plans face an average increase of 17%.

State officials, including Attorney General William Tong and Senator Matt Lesser, have voiced strong opposition, labeling the proposed double-digit increases as unaffordable and unacceptable. They intend to scrutinize the insurers' justifications, citing concerns about "fuzzy math" and a lack of negotiation with healthcare providers.

Insurers attribute the potential hikes to rising medical costs, prescription drug expenses, and the expiration of federal subsidies. A new national report by the Urban Institute highlights that 46% of working-age adults in the U.S. struggled to afford healthcare in 2025, with many facing unmet needs due to high costs.

The Connecticut Insurance Department is reviewing the proposals, with public hearings scheduled before final decisions in September. Commissioner Josh Hershman emphasized the need for a systemic approach to healthcare costs, involving providers, pharmaceutical companies, and policymakers.