⚡ Key Takeaways
- Connecticut HUSKY uses ASOs (CHNCT, Carelon, CTDHP/BeneCare, Veyo) rather than competing MCOs — one network serves all enrollees.
- Medical, behavioral health, dental (adult and pediatric), vision, hearing, prescription drugs, DME, home health, and NEMT all covered with no copays for HUSKY A/C/D.
- EPSDT entitlement for under-21 enrollees covers all medically necessary services beyond state-plan limits — applies to HUSKY A but not HUSKY B.
- HUSKY C LTSS covers nursing facility care plus home and community-based services through CHCPE, PCA, and other waivers.
- Prior authorization required for higher-cost services; denials can be appealed through ASO reconsideration, DSS Fair Hearings, and court action.
Key Takeaways
The Connecticut ASO Model: Why It
Sources: CT HUSKY Health, CHNCT
Medical Services Covered Under HUSKY
Sources: CT Medicaid Coverage Policies
Behavioral Health: Mental Health and Substance Use
Sources: CT Behavioral Health Partnership
Prescription Drug Coverage
Sources: CT Medicaid PDL
Dental Coverage Through CTDHP/BeneCare
Sources: CT Dental Health Partnership
Vision, Hearing, and Other Specialty Services
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Through Veyo
Sources: Veyo CT NEMT
EPSDT: The Federal Entitlement for Children
Sources: CMS EPSDT
Sources: Center for Children
Long-Term Services and Supports
Sources: Money Follows the Person
Finding HUSKY Providers in Connecticut
Prior Authorization and Coverage Appeals
Sources: DSS Fair Hearings
Questions About Your HUSKY Coverage?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Connecticut not use MCOs like other states?
Connecticut tried MCOs from 1995 to 2012 and concluded the model was not delivering expected savings or quality improvements. In 2012, the state transitioned to an Administrative Services Organization (ASO) model with specialized administrators for medical (CHNCT), behavioral health (Carelon), dental (CTDHP/BeneCare), and transportation (Veyo). The ASO model means enrollees do not choose between competing MCOs — any HUSKY-enrolled provider accepts every HUSKY enrollee.
Does HUSKY cover dental care for adults?
Yes. Adult HUSKY dental coverage through CTDHP/BeneCare includes preventive services twice/year, restorative services (fillings, crowns), root canals on most teeth, extractions, periodontal scaling, and dentures and partial dentures. Cosmetic dentistry is not covered. Children’s dental coverage is more comprehensive, including orthodontia for medically necessary cases.
How do I find a HUSKY provider in my area?
Use the CHNCT provider directory at huskyhealth.com or call CHNCT member services at 1-800-859-9889. For behavioral health, use the Carelon directory at ctbhp.com or 1-877-552-8247. For dental, use the CTDHP directory at ctdhp.org or 1-866-420-2924. Federally Qualified Health Centers across Connecticut also accept all HUSKY enrollees.
Does HUSKY cover hearing aids?
Yes. HUSKY covers hearing aids for both children and adults with documented hearing loss. Adults are covered for one set every five years; children are covered more frequently as medically necessary under EPSDT. This is substantially more generous than most commercial health insurance plans.
How do I book a ride to a medical appointment under HUSKY?
Connecticut HUSKY provides Non-Emergency Medical Transportation through Veyo. Book at least 48–72 hours in advance through the Veyo Connect app or by calling 1-855-478-7350. Coverage includes personal vehicle mileage reimbursement, taxi, rideshare, wheelchair-accessible van, and ambulance when medically necessary.
What is EPSDT and why does it matter for my child?
EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment) is the federal Medicaid entitlement for all enrollees under 21. EPSDT requires Medicaid to cover all medically necessary services for children — broader than commercial insurance and broader than HUSKY B (CHIP). EPSDT covers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for autism, in-home nursing for medically fragile children, and developmental therapy without standard benefit caps. EPSDT applies to HUSKY A children but not to HUSKY B children.
What if HUSKY denies coverage for a service I need?
Three levels of appeal are available: (1) Reconsideration by the ASO clinical reviewer (CHNCT for medical, Carelon for behavioral health); (2) DSS Fair Hearing within 60 days of the Reconsideration decision; (3) Court action in Connecticut Superior Court after exhausting administrative remedies. Time-sensitive services can be expedited. Continuation of benefits is available if you file the appeal within 10 days of the denial.
Are prescription drugs covered without copays under HUSKY?
HUSKY A, C, and D have no prescription drug copays. HUSKY B has small copays in Bands 2 and 3 ($1–$3 for generics, $3–$5 for brand-name; capped at 5% of household income annually). Drugs on the Connecticut Medicaid Preferred Drug List are covered without prior authorization; non-preferred drugs require PA showing medical necessity.