You can apply for Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid Program) or Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) at any time. Health First Colorado and CHP+ do not have open enrollment periods. Get more information on the How To Apply page.
I am a college student who does not live at home but my parents claim me as a tax dependent on their taxes. Do I need to include my parents’ income on my Medical Assistance application?
Yes. If you are a tax dependent of someone else, you need to include their income information on your application. If you do not know it, you will need to contact that person to get their income information.
How long will it take to find out if I qualify for Health First Colorado?
If you apply online through PEAK you may find out if you qualify immediately. If you apply by mail, it may take up to 45 days to find out if you qualify.
How do I enroll my newborn in Health First Colorado?
If you are enrolled in Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program) or Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) when your baby is born, you can add your newborn to your case online by reporting a change through your PEAK account at Colorado.gov/PEAK, or using the Health First Colorado mobile app. Your baby will then be automatically enrolled in health coverage until his or her first birthday.
There is also an option to report the birth of your baby to your county of residence human services office or a Medical Assistance (MA) site case worker near you. Once your baby is added to your case and you have their State ID, you are able to take your baby to the doctor.
Can I get help for depression?
Mental and behavioral health services are available to Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program) members. Contact your primary care provider or regional organization to get connected to behavioral health services.
Can I get transportation to my appointments?
Free Non-Emergent Medical Transportation (NEMT) is available if you have no other means of transportation to get to and/or from health appointments for Health First Colorado-covered services. See the Non-Emergent Medical Transportation page for details.
Are prenatal vitamins covered?
Prenatal vitamins are a free benefit for all pregnant women. Talk with your health care provider about the benefits of taking a prenatal vitamin every day. A prescription is required.
How much are my co-pays?
You have no co-pays for Health First Colorado-covered services and prescriptions while you are pregnant and for two months after your pregnancy ends.
What is the Nurse Home Visitor Program?
The Nurse Home Visitor Program (NVHP) is a special program for qualifying women who are pregnant with their first child. The program is also for these first children up to their second birthday. NHVP offers case management and health education services to moms and their first babies in order to help them get the medical and social services that they need.
I have a health concern. Who do I call?
Health First Colorado (Colorado’s Medicaid program) offers a free 24-hour, 7 days a week Nurse Advice Line at 1-800-283-3221. Help is available in both English and Spanish.