Key Takeaways:
- Connecticut offers a range of Medicare plans, including 61 Medicare Advantage, 16 prescription drug, and 12 Medigap plans.
- All Medicare beneficiaries in the state have access to at least one Medicare Advantage plan with zero monthly premiums.
- Look beyond low premiums and compare plans based on provider networks, extra benefits, and local partnerships for optimal coverage.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and above and younger people with certain covered disabilities and diseases.
It is divided into several basic parts, each of which has multiple sub-parts and components that require close consideration.
For residents of Connecticut, that means navigating a healthcare system with complex, often confusing, rules and regulations that directly impact their health and finances.
Types of Medicare Plans Available in Connecticut
Residents of Connecticut have access to four Medicare plan types.
Let’s look at them one by one.
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)
Original Medicare is the backbone of federal health insurance in the US.
It has two components:
- Part A (Hospital Insurance): Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, some home health care, and hospice care.
In 2025, the Part A deductible is $1,676. Those who have paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years pay zero monthly premiums, while others have to pay $285 or $518 per month.
- Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, lab tests, and durable medical equipment.
In 2025, the annual deductible for Part B is $257 (a 17% decrease from 2024), while the monthly premium is $185 ($10.30 increase over 2024).
In addition to deductibles and monthly premiums, Medicare Part A and Part B include out-of-pocket costs like copayments and coinsurance.
In Part B, for instance, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved cost for a service once you’ve met the annual deductible. For Part A, the $1,676 deductible is not annual but payable per benefit period.
Data sourced from Medicare Basics.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage or Part C plans are an alternative to Original Medicare.
Federal law mandates that all Part C plans must provide the same coverage as Original Medicare. They differ because private insurers can add extra benefits to Part C coverage.
That could include prescription drug coverage, hearing, vision, and dental services, and even wellness programs in certain plans.
Learn more: Medicare Advantage vs. Original Medicare
Here are some important facts about Medicare Advantage plans in Connecticut:
- The state offers 61 Medicare Advantage plans in 2025, up from 51 in 2024.
- The average monthly plan premium went up from $19.77 in 2024 to $20.03 in 2025.
- All Medicare enrollees in Connecticut have access to at least one Part C plan with zero premiums.
Top Medicare Advantage plans:
Insurance Carrier | CMS Star Rating | Network Availability | Monthly Premium | Deductible | In-Network Out-of-pocket Max |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
United Healthcare | 3.93★ | 49 states and DC | $0 | $0 | $6,700 |
Humana | 3.63★ | 49 states, DC, and PR | $0 | $0 | $4,950 |
Aetna | 4.27★ | 44 states and DC | $0 | $0 | $5,900 |
Data gathered via CMS.gov and direct provider plans. Star ratings and plan information reflects publicly available data as of 2025.
Top Medicare Advantage plan providers in Connecticut include:
- United Healthcare
- ConnectiCare
- Cigna
- Aetna
- Anthem
Find the Right Medicare Coverage in Connecticut
At CoverRight, we have extensive experience and a deep understanding of Connecticut’s Medicare landscape.
Our expert advisors guide you to the Medicare plan that gives you optimal coverage at a price you’re comfortable with.
Reach out to us today to start saving on your Medicare expenses.
Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)
Medicare Part D is an optional plan that covers some of the costs of prescription drugs.
Beneficiaries with original Medicare needing prescription drug coverage must buy a stand-alone Part D plan. Those with Medicare Advantage can bundle prescription drug coverage as an additional plan benefit.
There are two key considerations to choosing a Part D plan:
Plan Formulary
Each Part D plan has a formulary – a list of covered drugs arranged according to different cost-sharing tiers. Compare plan formularies thoroughly to understand how much you’ll end up paying out-of-pocket for the specific medications you need.
Pharmacy Networks
Part D coverage is limited to a network of pharmacies that contract with various plan providers. Make sure your preferred pharmacies are included in your plan as filling prescriptions outside the network can be difficult.
Here are some key facts about Part D plans in Connecticut in 2025:
- All beneficiaries in the state have access to at least one of 16 different stand-alone Part D plans.
- 66.58% of individuals enrolled in Part D plan have access to a plan with premiums lower than what they paid in 2024.
- The lowest premium for a Medicare prescription drug plan is $6.30 per month.
The total cost of a Medicare Part D plan depends on multiple factors, including the specific medicines you require, where you live, and your income.
Under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, out-of-pocket costs for covered drugs under Part D have been capped at $2,000 per year.
Learn more: Your Guide to Understanding the Cost of Medicare Part D.
Top Medicare Part D plans in Connecticut:
Plan Name | Monthly Premium | Deductible | CMS Rating |
---|---|---|---|
Blue MedicareRx Premier | $190.00 | $0 | 3.0★ |
Cigna Healthcare Extra Rx | $112.90 | $175 | 2.5★ |
Humana Basic Rx Plan | $102.50 | $590 | 3.5★ |
Note: Data from MedicareWire.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans
Medicare Supplement or Medigap plans are designed to minimize out-of-pocket costs involved in Original Medicare.
Connecticut offers 10 federally-standardized Medigap plans labeled as A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N, with two additional high-deductible options for Plan F and Plan G.
The two most popular Medigap plans are:
- Plan G: Covers most out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare except the Part B deductible in exchange for slightly higher premiums.
- Plan N: Has lower premiums but involves cost-sharing for some doctor visits and emergency room care. It also does not cover the Part B deductible or excess charges.
Plan G is ideal for those who require frequent medical care and prefer predictable costs. Plan N, on the other hand, is ideal for budget-conscious beneficiaries.
Connecticut is also one of only four US states – the others being Maine, Massachusetts, and New York – where insurers can reject your application or charge you more for pre-existing conditions if you apply after the first six months of Medicare eligibility.
Learn more: Medicare Part B Excess Charges: What Are They and Do You Need to Pay it?
In 2025, monthly premiums for Medigap Plan G in Connecticut range from $220.05 to $430.19. Premiums for a high deductible Plan G can go from $49.50 to $84.80.
Plan N premiums can range from $171.19 to $311.53 per month.
Top Medigap providers in Connecticut include:
- Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
- Cigna
- ConnectiCare
- Humana
- Mutual of Omaha
Average Costs of Medicare Plans in Connecticut
Here’s a breakdown of the different Medicare plans in Connecticut.
Plan Type | Average Monthly Premium | Deductible | What it Covers |
---|---|---|---|
Original Medicare (Part A) | $0 ($285 or $518 if you do not qualify for free premiums) | $1,676 | Inpatient care, such as hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and hospice care |
Medical Insurance (Part B) | $185 | $257 | Outpatient care, preventative services, and medical equipment |
Medicare Advantage (Part C) | $20.03 | $0 – $200 (Varies by plan/region) | All Original Medicare + extra benefits like vision, hearing, and dental care |
Prescription Drug (Part D) | $101.60 | $590 | Covers prescription drugs |
Medigap Plans G and N | $241.36 – $325.12 | N/A | Fills gaps in Original Medicare out-of-pocket costs |
Note: All data reflect 2025 averages sourced from Medicare.gov, CMS.gov, and MedicareWire and may vary by provider.
Top Medicare Advantage and Medigap Providers in Connecticut
Let’s take a closer look at some of Connecticut’s top providers of Medicare Advantage and Medigap Plans.
Learn more: Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement: How to Choose?
Best Medicare Advantage Providers
When you’re comparing Medicare Advantage plans, make sure to look beyond the lowest premiums.
Carrier | Highest Rating | Lowest Rating | Median Rating | Total Number of MA Contracts |
---|---|---|---|---|
Aetna | 4.5 | 2.5 | 4.0 | 45 |
Centene | 4.0 | 2.0 | 3.0 | 106 |
Cigna | 4.5 | 3.0 | 3.5 | 17 |
Elevance (Anthem BCBS) | 5.0 | 2.5 | 3.5 | 46 |
Humana | 5.0 | 3.0 | 4.0 | 48 |
United Healthcare | 5.0 | 3.0 | 4.0 | 75 |
Note: Medicare Advantage CMS Star Ratings: 6 Major Carriers (Updated 2/15/25).
Consider the additional benefits they provide, the extent of coverage in your particular area, and partnerships with leading hospitals and medical facilities in your state.
Consider your healthcare needs and lifestyle before picking a plan that provides the most value in terms of coverage and costs.
Learn more: Finding Medicare Providers: Which One Is Right For You?
Best Medigap Providers
Compare Medigap providers in Connecticut based on the diversity of plan options they offer, the company’s financial strength, and customer satisfaction ratings.
Independent rating agencies like AM Best can help you evaluate specific providers and plans.
Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a Medigap provider in Connecticut:
- Experience with local healthcare trends.
- A history of rate stability.
- Efficiency of claims processing.
- Easy access to customer service.
Here are the top providers of Medigap Plan G in Connecticut:
Carrier | Average Monthly Premium | Fee | A.M. Best Rating |
---|---|---|---|
AARP | $196.55 | None | AA- |
Globe Life | $255.00 | None | A+ |
United American | $335.00 | None | A+ |
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield | $190.05 | None | A |
Cigna | $222.37 | None | A |
Humana | $260.59 | None | A- |
Combined Insurance | $267.70 | $25.00 | A+ |
Omaha Insurance Company | $316.97 | None | A+ |
Colonial Penn | $446.44 | None | A- |
American Progressive Life | $501.26 | None | Not Available |
Here are the top providers of Medigap Plan N in Connecticut:
Carrier | Average Monthly Premium | Fee | A.M. Best Rating |
---|---|---|---|
AARP | $148.00 | None | A |
Globe Life | $180.00 | None | A+ |
United American | $196.00 | None | A+ |
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield | $146.19 | None | A |
USAA Life | $164.90 | None | A++ |
Omaha Insurance Company | $178.85 | None | A+ |
Cigna | $182.07 | None | A |
Combined Insurance | $229.63 | None | A+ |
Humana | $249.80 | None | A- |
Colonial Penn | $306.62 | None | A- |
Note: Data from MedicareWire.
How to Choose the Right Medicare Plan in Connecticut
Start with a thorough evaluation of your healthcare needs.
- Verify if your preferred doctors, specialists, and other healthcare providers participate in your chosen plan.
- Consider how often you need medical care and whether you need specialized treatment for chronic conditions.
- Factor in ongoing treatments and planned procedures and check if they are covered in your chosen plan.
Next, review the coverage details, costs, and extra benefits offered by the plans you’ve shortlisted.
- Compare the total annual cost of each plan – including copayments, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket costs – and not just monthly premiums.
- Evaluate your prescription medication requirements and check what it’s going to cost you, monthly and annually, under different plans.
- For Medicare Advantage, see what additional benefits each plan offers, like vision, dental, and hearing care, and decide if they are worth the extra cost.
- Finally, factor in potential changes in your healthcare needs in the years ahead and what that can cost you in premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
Remember, the cheapest Medicare plan may not always be the best option when you consider your unique healthcare needs and budget.
Contact a Medicare counselor or a licensed insurance agent like CoverRight to understand the nuances of Medicare costs and coverage and what they mean for you.
How to Enroll in a Medicare Plan in Connecticut
Medicare enrollment is handled by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Individuals 65 years and older who receive Social Security benefits are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
You can delay Medicare Part B enrolment if you’re already covered by employer health insurance.
For others, it is important to sign up on time to avoid late enrolment penalties and potential coverage gaps.
There are four Medicare enrollment periods:
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): It begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes your birth month, and extends three months thereafter. You can enroll in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), Part C, and Part D prescription drug plans during this period.
- Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7 of each year, you can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, change Medicare Advantage plans, enroll in a Part D plan, or switch Part D plans.
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP): From January 1 to March 31 of each year, you can switch Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare and join a stand-alone Part D plan.
- Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): SEPs are triggered by certain qualifying life events such as relocating to another state, losing employer coverage, or becoming eligible for Medicaid.
Learn more: Medicare Special Enrollment Periods: What Are They?
Steps to Enroll
Here’s a step-by-step guide to enrolling in a Medicare plan in Connecticut:
- Get Your Paperwork Ready: That includes your Medicare card (if you’re already enrolled), Social Security card, proof of citizenship or legal residency, list of medications, and current healthcare providers.
- Choose How to Enroll: There are four ways to apply for Medicare enrollment:
-
- Online: Through the Social Security Administration or the Medicare websites.
- By Phone: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to enroll.
- In Person: By visiting your local SSA office. Find it through the SSA office locator.
- Through an Agent: Licensed insurance agencies like CoverRight offer personalized guidance and support throughout the Medicare enrollment process.
Additional Medicare Resources for Connecticut Residents
Connecticut offers its Medicare-eligible residents numerous resources to help them understand their options and make informed decisions.
They include:
- Centre for Medicare Advocacy (CMA): A non-profit law organization that helps Connecticut residents and their families obtain fair access to Medicare through assistance, outreach, and education.
- CHOICES: A program that empowers Medicare-eligible individuals and their families to make informed health insurance decisions and optimize coverage and access to care and benefits.
- Medicare Savings Program: This program is funded by Medicaid and offers financial assistance to eligible Medicare enrollees, typically by paying Part B premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance.
Make Medicare simple in Connecticut.
At CoverRight, our specialists deeply understand the Medicare system and the Connecticut healthcare market. We’ll help guide you to coverage that fits your life and budget.
Sources
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
- Medicare Open Enrollment Partner Resources. Published 2024. Available at: cms.gov. Last Accessed February 2, 2025.
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
- 2025 Medicare Advantage and Part D Ratings Fact Sheet. Published October 10, 2024. Available at: cms.gov. Last Accessed February 10, 2025.
- Medicare.gov
- Medigap Coverage Information: When to Buy. Available at: medicare.gov. Last Accessed February 5, 2025.
- Medicare.gov
- Medigap Overview. Available at: medicare.gov. Last Accessed January 31, 2025.
- Medicare.gov
- What Does Medicare Cost? Available at: medicare.gov. Last Accessed February 4, 2025.
- Medicare.gov
- When Does Medicare Coverage Start? Available at: medicare.gov. Last Accessed February 2, 2025.
- Medicare.gov
- What Does Medicare Cost? Available at: medicare.gov. Last Accessed January 31, 2025.
- Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF)
- Key Facts About Medicare Part D Enrollment, Premiums, and Cost Sharing in 2025. Available at: kff.org. Last Accessed January 27, 2025.