At CAHEP Clinics, we believe every Coloradan deserves access to high-quality, affordable healthcare—regardless of insurance status. For many individuals and families in Denver and across Colorado, Medicaid (Health First Colorado) is a lifeline, providing access to essential health services without the financial burden.
In this article, we’ll break down how Medicaid works in Colorado, who qualifies, how it’s being used, and how CAHEP Clinics help individuals maximize their benefits. We’ll also share data that highlights why Medicaid is so crucial for our communities.
Medicaid in Colorado: A Snapshot
Medicaid, known in Colorado as Health First Colorado, provides free or low-cost health coverage to over 1.7 million Coloradans, including children, pregnant individuals, people with disabilities, and low-income families.
According to the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing:
-
1 in 4 Coloradans is covered by Medicaid.
-
Over 50% of children in the state receive coverage through Medicaid or CHP+ (Child Health Plan Plus).
-
Approximately 40% of births in Colorado are covered by Medicaid.
-
The program also supports over 280,000 people with disabilities.
With healthcare costs on the rise, Medicaid ensures that low-income families aren’t left behind—and CAHEP Clinics are here to guide them every step of the way.
What Services Does Medicaid Cover?
Medicaid covers a wide range of health services that can help families stay healthy and manage chronic conditions. Covered services include:
-
Primary care visits
-
Pediatric and adolescent care
-
Dental and vision services
-
Prescription medications
-
Vaccinations and preventive screenings
-
Prenatal, labor, and delivery care
-
Mental health and substance use treatment
-
Emergency services and hospital stays
-
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
This level of coverage ensures that recipients get the care they need at every stage of life.
How CAHEP Clinics Help Medicaid Users
At CAHEP Clinics, our goal is to make Medicaid work for you. We understand that enrolling in and using Medicaid can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time users or individuals with language barriers.
Here’s how we help:
1. Free Medicaid Enrollment Assistance
Our bilingual outreach specialists help patients understand their eligibility, gather necessary documents, and apply for coverage. We also assist with renewals and troubleshooting coverage issues.
2. Care for All—Regardless of Insurance
Whether you have Medicaid, private insurance, or no insurance at all, CAHEP offers compassionate, high-quality care. No one is turned away because of inability to pay.
3. Culturally Responsive Services
Our providers and staff understand the cultural and linguistic needs of Denver’s diverse communities. We speak your language and respect your experiences.
4. Access to Comprehensive Services
From women’s health and family medicine to mental health and preventive care, CAHEP is your medical home. We work closely with Medicaid to ensure covered services are accessible with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Medicaid Coverage
-
Choose a Primary Care Provider (PCP): This is your main doctor for check-ups and referrals. At CAHEP, we help you select a provider who understands your needs.
-
Schedule Preventive Visits: Annual wellness checks, vaccines, and screenings are fully covered and essential for early detection of health issues.
-
Keep Your Information Updated: Notify Medicaid of any changes in income, address, or family size to avoid losing coverage.
-
Know What’s Covered: Ask us! Our team will walk you through your benefits and help you find the care you need.
-
Take Advantage of Dental and Mental Health Benefits: These services are often underused, but fully covered under Medicaid and available at or through CAHEP Clinics.
Visit a CAHEP Clinic Today
Whether you need help applying for Medicaid, managing your health coverage, or finding a trusted provider, CAHEP is here to help. We proudly serve Denver and surrounding areas with a deep commitment to equity, dignity, and care for all.