Healthcare access has been a critical issue for many Americans for years, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the disparity even more. Health First Colorado (HFC), Colorado’s Medicaid program, has been working steadily to transform healthcare access in the state, providing affordable and comprehensive coverage to over a million Coloradans.
HFC has been working on multiple fronts to guarantee that all Coloradans have access to quality healthcare. One key strategy has been broadening Medicaid eligibility. With the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in place, Medicaid eligibility has expanded to include people with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level, which translates to $17,774 for an individual and $36,570 for a family of four. The expansion has enabled HFC to provide coverage to more people, especially those who were previously uninsured or under-insured, and ensure that all Coloradans have access to essential health services.
Another critical aspect of HFC’s work has been providing support and resources to healthcare providers in the state. HFC has established a range of programs that help healthcare providers enhance services, improve quality, and strengthen their operations. For instance, the Accountable Care Collaborative (ACC) program, which is unique to Colorado, is a Medicaid-based program that provides comprehensive primary care and behavioral health services to patients with complex or chronic medical conditions. The program connects patients with care coordination teams that work with them and their providers to develop care plans, coordinate appointments, and ensure that they have all the support they need to manage their health.
HFC has also implemented various programs to address social determinants of health, such as food insecurity, housing instability, and transportation issues, which can impede healthcare access. HFC partners with community organizations to offer support services and resources that help people access basic needs, such as nutritious food, stable housing, and transportation to medical appointments. These programs have been especially important during the pandemic, as many vulnerable populations have been hit the hardest.
Another area where HFC has made significant strides is in telehealth. Telehealth services allow patients to access care remotely, which has been instrumental in ensuring continuity of care during the pandemic. Telehealth visits are available for primary care, behavioral health, specialist care, and other services, providing Coloradans with flexibility and convenience. HFC has partnered with providers to enhance telehealth capacity and reduce cost-sharing for telehealth services, making it easier and more affordable for patients to access care when they need it.
In conclusion, HFC has been doing significant work to transform healthcare access in Colorado, providing affordable and comprehensive coverage to millions of Coloradans. From expanding eligibility to enhancing provider services, addressing social determinants of health, and increasing telehealth capacity, HFC has been working comprehensively to ensure that all residents have access to basic health needs. By investing in these critical initiatives, HFC is poised to make lasting improvements in healthcare access, thereby improving the health and well-being of Colorado’s residents for years to come.
