Access Health CT board hears audits, survey results and outreach updates including Broker Academy and Small Business Summit

Board members received multiple administrative and program updates during the June meeting.

Susan Richby summarized audit activity: independent financial and programmatic audits for FY26 (engaged with Whittlesey), the state-based marketplace SMART report (CMS delayed SMART questions and moved the due date to July 1), and a biannual audit by the Connecticut auditors of public accounts. She said audits are in progress and no issues are anticipated.

Rebecca McPherr, director of technical operations and analytics, presented high-level findings from the annual leaver survey of customers who did not renew coverage for 2026. Of the 342 respondents in the leaver sample presented, more than 80 percent had been enrolled 1–5 years; about 63 percent of respondents reported having other coverage. Top reasons for nonrenewal included employer coverage, Medicare eligibility and cost concerns. Staff said a full report with further analysis and actionable recommendations will be shared with the board in the coming weeks.

John Carbone recapped the 4th annual Connecticut Small Business Summit (May 28), attended by roughly 250 people, which included sessions on accessing capital, marketing and technology and featured speakers including the state comptroller and a member of Congress. The Exchange’s Business Plus platform and a national roundtable appearance at George Washington University were also highlighted.

Tammy Hendricks provided a Broker Academy update: 65 students started the program this year across 28 towns; 54 students passed the class exam and mentorship matching begins in July ahead of an Oct. 23 graduation, timed for open enrollment.

Staff described how they will use survey and program results to inform outreach strategies, marketing and plan-management requirements for future plan years. The board asked that full reports and detailed data be circulated to directors for follow-up.