Frequently asked questions about Connecticut AHEAD
Who is responsible for Connecticut AHEAD?
The Connecticut Office of Health Strategy (OHS) serves as the lead agency for Connecticut AHEAD. The Connecticut Department of Social Services has partnered with OHS to bring this model to Connecticut and will manage all Medicaid related aspects of the program. The Connecticut Office of the State Comptroller will participate as a healthcare payer representing the Connecticut State Employee health insurance plan.
What does total cost of care mean?
States that participate in Total Cost of Care (TCOC) models have agreed to be accountable for quality and population health outcomes, and to take steps to control healthcare cost growth. TCOC models include all healthcare payers, including Medicare, Medicaid and private insurers and plans. Connecticut’s Healthcare Benchmarks Initiative, which sets statewide cost growth and quality benchmarks, as well as primary care spending targets, sets our state ahead of others in these efforts.
When will Connecticut AHEAD begin?
Connecticut AHEAD began planning activities upon receiving the federal award in July 2024. The model requires extensive planning and development of complex financial models, engagement of key stakeholders including hospitals, physician practices and healthcare payers, as well as development of Statewide Health Equity Plan by the Connecticut Head Advisory Committee. Implementation of Connecticut AHEAD is scheduled to begin in January of 2027.
Are hospitals and doctors required to participate in Hospital Global Budgets or Primary Care AHEAD?
Participation in both Hospital Global Budgets and Primary Care AHEAD is voluntary. OHS and DSS will work with hospitals, and physician practices, including federally qualified health centers, to help them understand if Connecticut AHEAD is a good fit for their organization.
How is Connecticut AHEAD funded?
Connecticut AHEAD is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $12 million with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
To submit your questions about the Connecticut AHEAD Advisory Committee, Statewide Health Equity Plan, Hospital Global Budgets, Primary Care AHEAD or other aspects of the model please contact us at OHS-AHEAD@ct.gov