Cigna Unveils Smart Coverage to Close Health-Cost Gaps for Eligible Members

Cigna's health benefits arm is launching Smart Coverage, a connected experience that links medical and supplemental health benefits to make cash support easier to access for costly health events. This new option can be added to qualifying high-deductible health plans and provides eligible members with up to $7,000 for covered injuries, illnesses or hospitalizations.

Cigna is also rolling out Simple File Sync Plus, which automatically matches qualifying medical claims with eligible supplemental benefits, reducing paperwork and missed claims. Smart Coverage launches on January 1, 2027, for US clients with 500-2,999 employees at launch, with broader availability planned for 2028.

The move targets a clear affordability gap in employer health coverage. Cigna and Ipsos found nearly 60% of Americans are not financially prepared for a health event, while 44% have spent at least $1,000 out of pocket after a diagnosis, injury or hospitalization. Fewer than one-third understand that supplemental benefits can also cover everyday costs such as groceries, housing or childcare.

UnitedHealth Group Incorporated and Elevance Health, Inc. offer similar solutions to the connected-benefits approach. UnitedHealthcare's Benefit Ally combines medical coverage with accident, critical-illness and hospital-indemnity benefits, while Elevance's Whole Health Connection links Anthem medical coverage with accident, critical-illness and hospital-indemnity plans.