Press Release  Governor Healey Kicks Off 2027 Health Connector Open Enrollment, Encourages Residents to Get Covered

BOSTON — Governor Maura Healey today joined state and Boston public health leaders to kick off the Massachusetts Health Connector's Open Enrollment period for 2027, encouraging residents to explore their health insurance options, compare plans and take advantage of available financial assistance. The Governor also announced that Massachusetts will continue to provide additional state funding to keep coverage affordable after President Trump and Congressional Republicans allowed federal Enhanced Premium Tax Credits under the Affordable Care Act to expire at the end of last year.

The Governor was joined by Massachusetts Health Connector Executive Director Audrey Morse Gasteier, Undersecretary of Health Amy Rosenthal, Boston Commissioner of Public Health Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, and Sonia Teixeira Amado of the Boston Public Health Commission at an event in Roxbury to highlight the importance of affordable health coverage and the free assistance available to help residents get covered. 

“Last year, Massachusetts stepped up when President Trump turned his back on the millions of Americans who get their health insurance through the Affordable Care Act,” said Governor Healey. “As a result, we protected access to care for nearly 300,000 of our residents. We’re doing the same this year – providing additional funding to help keep coverage affordable. So whether you're signing up for the first time or renewing your coverage, check out the Health Connector, explore your options and see what financial assistance is available. We're here to help you get covered at a price you can afford.” 

“Having quality health insurance is one of the most important ways Massachusetts residents can protect their health and financial security,” said Audrey Morse Gasteier, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Health Connector. “As Open Enrollment begins, we encourage residents to explore their coverage options and take advantage of free assistance available through the Health Connector and our Navigator partners. Whether enrolling for the first time or reviewing an existing plan, we are here to help residents make informed decisions about their coverage.” 

“In Massachusetts, we remain committed to keeping residents healthy and insured,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kiame Mahaniah. “With the start of Open Enrollment, I want to remind residents that there are so many resources available to them to help them find and keep health plans that work for them and their families. We are grateful to our partners at the Massachusetts Health Connector who have – for over two decades – kept Massachusetts covered.”  

Open Enrollment begins October 23 and runs through January 23, 2027. Residents must enroll by December 23, 2026, for coverage beginning January 1, 2027. Those who enroll by January 23 can receive coverage beginning February 1, 2027.

Last year, President Trump and Congressional Republicans refused to extend Federal Enhanced Premium Tax Credits under the Affordable Care Act, which 22 million Americans, including hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts residents, relied on to afford their health insurance. To limit the impact of these increases on middle-class Massachusetts families, Massachusetts increased its investment in the ConnectorCare program by $250 million, for a total of $600 million in 2026. For 2027, Massachusetts' total investment will be $620 million. 

This is the largest state investment in the country and means that approximately 279,000 customers enrolled in ConnectorCare will continue to see little to no premium increases in 2027, while also benefiting from Massachusetts' investment in ConnectorCare which provides lower co-pays and no deductibles. The funding comes from the Commonwealth Care Trust Fund.

“Access to health insurance is essential to building healthier communities,” said Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Boston Commissioner of Public Health. “When residents have coverage, they are better positioned to receive preventive care, manage chronic conditions, and get the medical attention they need. We want to make sure that everyone, particularly those who may face language or other barriers to enrollment, knows that help is available to understand their options and take the next step toward getting covered.” 

Health Connector officials encourage both new and returning members to review their coverage options for 2027. Residents can compare plans, review costs and determine whether they qualify for financial assistance. Current members are encouraged to update their household and income information to ensure they are receiving the financial support available to them.

Free, personalized enrollment assistance is available through Health Connector Navigators at 50 locations across Massachusetts, with support offered in 29 languages. Navigators can help residents understand their options, determine eligibility for financial assistance and complete the enrollment process.

Free, in-person enrollment assistance is available in 29 languages at 50 locations across Massachusetts. Residents can explore coverage options, find a Navigator, or enroll online at MAhealthconnector.org, or call 1-877-MA-ENROLL (1-877-623-6765). TTY users can dial 711.

Today's announcement builds on Governor Healey's efforts to lower health care costs and protect access to care across Massachusetts. She capped health insurance deductibles and co-pays for the first time, signed legislation capping prescription drug costs, including insulin at $25, eliminated prior authorization requirements for routine and essential care, and moved to prevent medical debt from appearing on credit reports. The administration also negotiated down proposed 2027 health insurance rate increases, saving Massachusetts residents and businesses a projected $72 million.

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