UConn Health and Aetna have reached a new multi-year agreement, restoring full in-network access for Aetna members across Connecticut. The deal, effective March 1, 2026, ends months of disruption for thousands of patients who lost in-network coverage when contract negotiations stalled. This agreement marks a major win for healthcare access throughout the state.
What the New Contract Means for Patients
The new agreement covers the full range of UConn Health services. Aetna members can now schedule appointments and receive care across UConn Health’s entire system at in-network rates. Furthermore, patients who had to postpone appointments during the negotiation period can contact their provider’s office to reschedule.
Services Covered Under the Agreement
The contract restores in-network access to several key areas, including:
- UConn John Dempsey Hospital
- UConn Medical Group physicians
- Specialty care and clinical services
- Community-based care sites across Connecticut
Additionally, the agreement ensures continued access to UConn Health’s academic medical center. This is especially important for patients managing complex or chronic conditions who depend on specialized care.
Background: How the Dispute Began
The previous contract between UConn Health and Aetna expired at midnight on November 30, 2025. Despite months of good-faith negotiations, both sides failed to reach a new deal in time. As a result, UConn Health became out-of-network for Aetna Commercial and Medicare Advantage members, affecting roughly 15,000 patients.
Why Negotiations Were Difficult
At the heart of the dispute was a disagreement over reimbursement rates. UConn Health argued that Aetna’s rates were among the lowest offered to any health system in the state. This imbalance was particularly significant because UConn Health is Connecticut’s only public academic medical center. Meanwhile, Aetna maintained that higher reimbursement rates would drive up costs for employers and plan members.
After the contract expired, Aetna offered a two-month “cooling-off period” for some commercial members. This temporary measure allowed UConn Health hospitals to remain at the in-network benefit level through late February 2026. However, it was only a stopgap. Therefore, both sides continued working toward a permanent resolution.
Steps Patients Should Take Now
Now that the agreement is in place, patients who deferred care during the dispute should act quickly. UConn Health is actively encouraging Aetna members to reconnect with their providers. Timely care is essential, especially for those managing ongoing health conditions.
How to Get Back on Track
Patients can take these steps to resume their care:
- Contact your provider’s office directly to schedule or reschedule appointments.
- Visit the UConn Health website for the latest updates and information.
- Call Aetna using the number on the back of your insurance card to confirm your plan’s in-network benefits.
- Verify network coverage at the Aetna member portal or by calling Aetna’s member services line.
Emergency care is always covered at in-network rates. Patients should always seek emergency services at the nearest facility, including UConn John Dempsey Hospital, without hesitation.
Leadership Responds to the Deal
Both organizations expressed relief and optimism following the announcement. Dr. Andrew Agwunobi, CEO of UConn Health, welcomed the outcome and highlighted its importance for patients and providers alike. “This agreement supports fair reimbursement for the high quality of care and service we provide,” he said. “We are delighted that our Aetna patients will continue to have access to that care.”
Board Chair Highlights Shared Commitment
John Driscoll, Chair of the UConn Health Board of Directors, also praised the deal. “After spirited negotiations, we are pleased to have reached new contract terms that ensure our patients the access they need and our UConn providers the reimbursement they deserve,” Driscoll said. His statement reflects the shared goal of both organizations: keeping high-quality care accessible and financially sustainable for Connecticut residents.
Looking Ahead: Patient Access and Long-Term Care
With the new multi-year deal secured, both UConn Health and Aetna move forward with a renewed partnership. Together, they have committed to maintaining patient access and long-term sustainability for healthcare services across the state.
Why This Agreement Matters for Connecticut
UConn Health serves as Connecticut’s only public academic medical center. Consequently, disruptions to its insurance network have a broader impact than those at private systems. This agreement not only restores access for thousands of Aetna members but also reinforces the value of collaborative negotiations between insurers and healthcare providers.
Going forward, UConn Health’s recent multi-year agreements with both Aetna and UnitedHealthcare signal a positive trend. Providers and insurers are working more constructively to protect patients from coverage gaps. Ultimately, it is Connecticut residents who benefit most from this renewed cooperation.
