Colorado

Colorado

Number of dialysis patients statewide: 3,737

This state offers Medigap insurance to dialysis patients under 65.

Legislative session: January 9 - May 7, 2013

Medicare, a federal program, pays for dialysis for over 80% of dialysis treatments. However, many issues concerning dialysis patients are actually handled at the state level.

Individual states have to provide certain basic services under Medicaid, but they also have flexibility in how they structure their plans and set their reimbursement rates. In addition, some states have the authority to determine the need and location for additional dialysis facilities (this is often referred to as certificate of need). Because dialysis patients’ care can be affected by state officials as well as federal officials, DPC members are becoming more active on state issues—ensuring the patients’ voice is heard locally as well as nationally.

Colorado Dialysis Patient Resources

Patient Support and Financial Resources

National Kidney Foundation of Colorado, Montana and Wyoming
Provides patient emergency financial assistance grants to kidney patients living in Colorado, Montana or Wyoming.
1-800-263-4005

The Kidney TRUST
Assists dialysis patients needing help with co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles for medical treatment, services, and prescription drugs. Please note that the Kidney Trust has specific application periods during each year. Please check before you apply.
1-866-399-7634

ESRD Network

#15 Intermountain End Stage Renal Disease Network
165 S. Union Blvd., Suite 466
Lakewood, CO  80228
1-800-783-8818

State-Run Programs

The Department of Healthcare Policy and Financing
Denver Metro Area 1-303-866-3513
Outside of the Denver Metro Area 1-800-221-3943

  • Adult Programs: Health care services to eligible low-income residents of this state.
  • Programs for Children: Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) is low-cost health insurance for Colorado's uninsured children and pregnant women. CHP+ is public health insurance for children and pregnant women who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid, but cannot afford private health insurance.
  • Additional Programs: If you have been denied health insurance due to a pre-existing medical condition, or have exhausted your COBRA benefits, we may be able to help. While CoverColorado is not a low income plan, this may be your best option if you are unable to obtain coverage elsewhere and can afford it.  1-888-770-1120.

Health Reform Status:

Exchange: Colorado will run its own state-based health insurance exchange.

Medicaid: The state will expand Medicaid eligibility.

 

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