The Department of Social Services' customer service center had received more than 1,000 calls from the public about the Charter Oak health plan by 4 p.m. Tuesday, said Gov. Jodi Rell.

"This phenomenal start to the Charter Oak plan demonstrates just how badly needed and wanted this program is," Rell said. "In the months leading up to yesterday's announcement that applications would be taken starting on July 1, my office received many inquiries about the program. Now that the program is actually underway, we’re being flooded with calls and requests for applications."

In addition, DSS has received dozens of e-mails from people contacting www.charteroakhealthplan.com.

In addition, people who do not have e-mail and had previously contacted DSS will be getting the application in the regular mail.

Rell announced Monday that the state is now accepting applications for the Charter Oak health plan. The plan provides affordable health care for Connecticut's uninsured adults who are too old for HUSKY but too young for Medicare, she said. It’s the first health plan in the nation for the uninsured that doesn’t require income limits, employer mandates or individual mandates.

"For the first time, Connecticut residents who are not able to get health insurance through their jobs now have access to decent, affordable coverage," Rell said. "Charter Oak is cost effective for both enrollees and taxpayers and meets a critical need for state residents. I urge all eligible residents to apply as soon as possible.”

A toll free hot line -- 877-77-CTOAK (28625) -- has been set up for the public to get more information about Charter Oak. The line will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. More information and applications can be found at www.charteroakhealthplan.com.

Individual premiums will range from $75 to $259, and annual deductibles will range from $150 to $900. The governor noted that Charter Oak will cover enrollees with pre-existing medical conditions.