Coronavirus, AHCT Small Business Enrollment Up, Free Dental Clinic

February 28, 2020

The governor recently provided an update this week on ongoing coordination efforts with the Connecticut Department of Health (DPH), the federal government, local and other authorities regarding coronavirus.

“Although we have no confirmed cases of coronavirus on Connecticut, we must be prepared for any situation and that is why we are continuing to take all necessary precautions to protect Connecticut from this dangerous virus,” Governor Lamont said during a press conference earlier this week. “This is serious, and we are working with our health care system and schools to ensure that our efforts are coordinated and people are prepared.”

The governor is urging residents to take all necessary precautions and follow guidelines issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC).

The DPH's official website has updated information on state response to coronavirus, as well as resources for Connecticut schools, healthcare practitioners, and residents, can be found by visiting ct.gov/coronavirus.

The best way to prevent illness is to avoid exposure.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
  • If unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Access Health CT Small Business (AHCT) announced this week that it saw significant growth in enrollment in 2019.

Group health insurance grew in excess of 20 percent this year while 89 percent of the group health insurance plans selected were done with help from a broker. Membership Stand-Alone Dental Plans have doubled year over year.

"This has been a pivotal year for Access Health CT Small Business," Small Business and Product Development Director John Carbone said in a press release. "and we will carry this momentum with us as we grow. We will continue to optimize our business plan, increase our outreach an presence within the communities we serve, and communicate opportunities that make coverage possible for Connecticut's workforce."

The Connecticut Mission of Mercy (CTMOM) will be offering a large scale free dental clinic at the O'Neill Center on the Westside Campus of Western Connecticut State University in Danbury March 20-21 beginning at 8 a.m. A broad array of dental services will be provided.