Avoid Gaps in Children’s Health Coverage: Restore “Continuous Eligibility” in HUSKY

Restoring continuous eligibility in Connecticut’s HUSKY health insurance program could reduce gaps in children’s health care. Continuous eligibility (CE) is a policy that allows children a year of continuous health insurance coverage after enrollment or renewal in HUSKY, regardless of fluctuations in family income or changes in family structure. Thus, CE can address the “churning” that is common in HUSKY, as thousands of children cycle on and off the program due to temporary changes in their family’s income. By reinstating CE, Connecticut could decrease administrative costs, increase provider satisfaction, and prevent interruptions in children’s health care.