Vermont Health Insurance Guide 2025

Everything you need to know about health coverage in the Green Mountain State

Medicaid Expanded

Key Facts

Medicaid Status Expanded (Early Adopter)
Marketplace Vermont Health Connect (State-Based)
Open Enrollment Nov 1 - Jan 15
Uninsured Rate 3.4%

Medicaid in Vermont

Vermont was among the first states to expand Medicaid and has long been a leader in healthcare coverage. Vermont Medicaid, part of the Green Mountain Care umbrella, provides comprehensive benefits to eligible low-income residents. The state also offers Dr. Dynasaur, an acclaimed program providing health coverage to children and pregnant women.

Who Qualifies for Vermont Medicaid?

  • Adults ages 19-64 with income up to 138% FPL ($20,783/year for individuals)
  • Pregnant women with income up to 213% FPL
  • Children under 19 with income up to 317% FPL (Dr. Dynasaur)
  • Seniors and people with disabilities meeting income requirements
  • Parents/caretakers meeting income requirements
Dr. Dynasaur - Children's Coverage: Vermont's Dr. Dynasaur program provides comprehensive health coverage to children and pregnant women. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, dental, vision, and more with no premiums for most families.

Green Mountain Care Benefits

  • Preventive care and wellness visits
  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Hospital inpatient and outpatient services
  • Prescription drug coverage
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Dental services (comprehensive)
  • Vision care including glasses
  • Laboratory and X-ray services
  • Home health and community-based services

How to Apply

You can apply for Vermont Medicaid through:

  • Online at portal.healthconnect.vermont.gov
  • By phone: 1-855-899-9600
  • Through Vermont Health Connect
  • In person at your local Department for Children and Families office
  • Through a certified navigator or enrollment counselor

Health Insurance Marketplace

Vermont operates its own state-based marketplace, Vermont Health Connect. The marketplace integrates with Medicaid eligibility screening, making it easy to find the right coverage based on your income.

Available Plan Types

  • Bronze: Lower premiums, higher out-of-pocket costs (60% coverage)
  • Silver: Moderate premiums and costs (70% coverage) - best for subsidies
  • Gold: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs (80% coverage)
  • Platinum: Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket costs (90% coverage)
  • Catastrophic: Available for under-30 or hardship exemption
Limited carrier options: As a rural state with a small population, Vermont has fewer insurance carriers than larger states. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont and MVP Health Care are the primary carriers. However, plan quality remains high and subsidies help make coverage affordable.

Enrollment Periods

Open Enrollment: November 1, 2024 - January 15, 2025

Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1, 2025. Vermont Medicaid and Dr. Dynasaur accept applications year-round. You can also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you have a qualifying life event.

Average Costs in Vermont

Health insurance costs in Vermont vary based on your age, plan type, and tobacco use. Vermont tends to have higher premiums than the national average due to its rural nature and limited carrier competition, but generous subsidies offset costs for most residents.

Plan Type Individual (Age 40) Family of 4
Bronze $420 - $500 $1,350 - $1,600
Silver $520 - $620 $1,650 - $2,000
Gold $590 - $700 $1,900 - $2,250
Vermont Medicaid $0 $0
Dr. Dynasaur (kids) N/A $0
Subsidies are essential: Most Vermont Health Connect enrollees receive premium tax credits that significantly reduce monthly costs. Despite higher base premiums, after-subsidy costs are often under $100/month for eligible residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has Vermont expanded Medicaid?

Yes, Vermont expanded Medicaid in 2014 and was among the first states to do so. Adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify for Vermont Medicaid (Green Mountain Care).

What is Vermont Health Connect?

Vermont Health Connect is Vermont's state-based health insurance marketplace where residents can shop for qualified health plans, check Medicaid eligibility, and access premium subsidies based on income.

What is Green Mountain Care?

Green Mountain Care is the umbrella name for Vermont's public health coverage programs including Medicaid and Dr. Dynasaur (children's coverage). It provides comprehensive health benefits to eligible Vermont residents.

When is open enrollment for Vermont health insurance?

Open enrollment for 2025 coverage through Vermont Health Connect runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1, 2025.

Need Help Finding Vermont Coverage?

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