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Learn about Medicaid

In Colorado, Medicaid is called “Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid Program)”. Health First Colorado provides free or low-cost health coverage to individuals and their families who qualify. Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) is a public health program that offers low-cost health and dental insurance for Colorado’s uninsured children and pregnant women who qualify.

Most individuals who qualify for Health First Colorado will have no monthly premium, no copay, and no out-of-pocket cost for most covered services. Some adults with disabilities or children with disabilities who have higher incomes than typical Medicaid members may pay a sliding scale monthly member bill based on a calculation of their earned and unearned income.

CHP+ members may have to pay small copayments for services and prescriptions.

Once you are approved for Health First Colorado, the State of Colorado will assign you a Primary Care Medical Provider. You can choose another participating primary care provider at any time by calling Health First Colorado Enrollment. If you live in the Denver/Boulder area, Kaiser Permanente may be available as a Primary Care Medical Provider.

If you qualify for CHP+ and live in Denver/Boulder, Kaiser Permanente may be available to you as your Health Plan. Click here to learn about Child Health Plan Plus.

Health First Colorado and Child Health Plan Plus provides a core set of health care benefits, including doctor visits, hospital care, immunization, and pregnancy-related services.

Outpatient care

Get care from a healthcare provider such as a nurse, doctor or specialist – including appointments, exams, and treatment.

Pediatric services

Your child can get regular check-ups, dental care, vision care and immunizations.

Medication

Get prescriptions that are covered by your plan.

Hospital inpatient care

If you have to go to a hospital, you can get the services you need, including x-rays and lab tests.

Emergency care

If you need to make an emergency room visit, you can get emergency services.

Laboratory services

Most lab tests are covered.

Maternity and Newborn care

Regular maternity care appointments, newborn screenings, immunizations, and more are covered.

Behavioral Health Services

Get comprehensive mental health care including behavioral health treatment, counseling and substance use disorder services.*

Rehabilitative & Habilitative Services

Services and devices to help you recover from an injury, disability or chronic condition. Examples include physical and occupational therapy.

Preventive and wellness services

Care you need to stay healthy, such as physical exams, counseling, screening, vaccines and chronic disease management.

Please note: Some services may require preauthorization. 

* For more information about Health First Colorado Behavioral Health Services click here. These services are not accessed through Kaiser Permanente for Health First Colorado enrollees.