What UCHealth patients need to know.
Federal changes are coming to Health First Colorado (Colorado Medicaid). New rules will begin in 2027, and more details will be shared over the coming months. Many people enrolled in Health First Colorado will need to take steps to keep their health coverage.
If you receive a letter, email or text message from Health First Colorado asking for information or telling you to renew your coverage, it is important to respond by the deadline. If you do not respond, you could lose your Health First Colorado coverage.
UCHealth is here to help you understand these changes and keep your Health First Colorado coverage, if you still qualify.
What you should do now.
If you have Health First Colorado, take these steps:
- Make sure your mailing address, phone number and email are up to date. You can update your information through Colorado PEAK or by contacting your county human services office.
- Watch for letters, emails or text messages from Health First Colorado or your county.
- Open every notice as soon as you get it.
- If you are asked to provide information or renew your coverage, respond as soon as possible.
Why this matters.
If you lose your Health First Colorado coverage, you may have to pay more for your healthcare, including:
- Doctor visits, including primary care, specialist, urgent care and other appointments.
- Prescription medicines that are currently covered.
- Preventive care, such as annual checkups, vaccines and health screenings.
- Home health services, personal care or nursing facility services, if you receive them.
- Medical bills if you become sick or injured.
What changes are coming?
Federal law is changing some Health First Colorado eligibility and renewal rules. Based on your situation, you may need to:
- Renew your coverage more often. Some people may need to renew their Health First Colorado coverage every 6 months instead of each year.
- Provide more information. You may be asked to provide information that shows you still qualify for Health First Colorado.
- Meet new work or activity requirements. Some adults may need to show they are:
- Working
- Voluntariado
- Going to school
- Taking part in job training
- Meet other eligibility requirements. Some people may need to meet other requirements based on their personal situation.
These changes will not apply to everyone. Health First Colorado will let you know if you need to do anything else.
¿Necesitas ayuda?
If you have questions about these changes or need help applying for Health First Colorado coverage, UCHealth Financial Counseling can help.
Our financial counselors can:
- Explain how these changes may affect you.
- Help you apply for Health First Colorado coverage.
- Answer questions about your Health First Colorado coverage.
- Connect you with other financial assistance programs, if you qualify.
Call UCHealth Financial Counseling at 855.843.3547.
Preguntas frecuentes
Will UCHealth still accept Health First Colorado coverage?
Yes. UCHealth will continue to care for patients who have Health First Colorado coverage. If your coverage changes, our financial counselors may be able to help you understand your options.
Will everyone lose Health First Colorado coverage?
No. Not everyone will lose coverage. However, many people will need to take steps to keep their coverage. If you receive a notice from Health First Colorado, read it carefully and respond by the deadline.
How will I know if I need to do something?
Health First Colorado will contact you if you need to take action. Be sure to read official letters, emails or text messages, and respond by the deadline.
What should I do if I receive a notice?
Open it right away and follow the instructions. Responding by the deadline can help you keep your Health First Colorado coverage.
