Colorado Medicaid Help & Updates

You’ve Got People. We’re Your People.
Health First Colorado—Colorado’s Medicaid program—covers substance use disorder and mental health services.
Whether you need help applying, renewing your coverage, understanding a notice, or preparing for upcoming Medicaid changes, Porch Light Health is here to help.
Don’t let worries about Medicaid stop you from starting or continuing treatment.
Whether or not you qualify for Medicaid, we will work with you to find a way to get the treatment you need.
Get Help With MedicaidStart Treatment
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What You Can Do Right Now

A few simple steps will ensure you don’t miss important updates or deadlines:
  • Make sure Health First Colorado has your current address, phone number, and email.
  • Check your mail and Colorado PEAK account for notices.
  • Open and respond to Medicaid letters right away.
  • Check your renewal date.
  • Ask for help if you receive something you don’t understand.
Sign up below for Medicaid updates from Porch Light Health.
Update Your InformationCheck Your Renewal Date
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We Can Help With Medicaid—and With Staying in Care

Our team can help you:
  • Apply for Health First Colorado
  • Renew your Medicaid coverage
  • Understand notices and next steps
  • Update your information
  • Access substance use disorder and mental health treatment
  • Find Medicaid transportation for covered appointments
  • Explore your options if your coverage changes or you do not qualify
Health First Colorado and county agencies make Medicaid eligibility decisions. Porch Light Health can help you navigate the process, connect with the right resources, and find a way to continue receiving care.
Talk With Someone Who Can Help

Latest Colorado Medicaid Updates

Last updated: September 8, 2026

New work requirements begin January 1, 2027

Beginning January 1, 2027, some adults ages 19 through 64 will need to meet new work, school, or volunteer requirements when applying for or renewing Health First Colorado.
The requirements will not apply to everyone. Health First Colorado will send you a letter if they may apply to you. Open and respond to any letters you receive.

Receiving treatment for a substance use disorder?

Current Colorado guidance says people participating in a treatment program for a drug or alcohol use disorder do not have to meet the new work requirements.
Continue to open and respond to all Medicaid notices. Contact us if you receive a letter you don’t understand or are asked for additional information.

Some members will renew every six months

Beginning January 1, 2027, some adults ages 19 through 64 will have their Medicaid eligibility reviewed every six months instead of once a year.
This will not apply to every member. Health First Colorado will send you a letter if your renewal schedule changes.

Coverage changes for some immigrants begin October 1, 2026

Federal changes will affect Medicaid eligibility for some immigrants beginning October 1, 2026. Not everyone will lose coverage, and some people may qualify for other forms of health coverage or assistance.
If your coverage is affected, Health First Colorado will send you a letter. Contact Porch Light Health or another trusted resource for help understanding your options.

What Does “Medically Frail” Mean?

“Medically frail” is a Medicaid term for someone whose health condition may mean they do not have to meet the new work requirements.
Current Colorado guidance includes people who:
  • Have a substance use disorder
  • Are in treatment for a drug or alcohol use disorder
  • Have a disabling mental health condition
  • Have a disability that makes daily activities difficult
  • Have a serious or complex medical condition
Some exceptions depend on how the condition affects a person’s ability to meet the requirements. People enrolled in a drug or alcohol treatment program are separately listed among those who do not have to meet them.
If Health First Colorado needs more information, it will send you a letter.
See Colorado’s Current Medical-Frailty Guidance
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Common Questions

Does Colorado Medicaid cover substance use disorder and mental health treatment?

Yes. Health First Colorado covers mental health and substance use disorder services, including outpatient care and medications for addiction treatment.
Porch Light Health can help you understand your coverage and get connected with care.

Do the new work requirements apply to everyone?

No. They apply only to certain adults ages 19 through 64. Many people do not have to meet them because of their health, age, pregnancy, caregiving responsibilities, participation in certain programs, or other circumstances.

What should I do if I receive a Medicaid notice?

Open it right away and look for any requested information or deadline. If you don’t understand it, contact Porch Light Health. We can help you identify your next step.

What if I don’t qualify for Medicaid or my coverage ends?

Call us. We will help you understand your options and work with you to find a way to make treatment possible.
Contact Porch Light Health

Get Colorado Medicaid Updates

Medicaid information is changing. Sign up to receive important deadlines, coverage updates, and practical guidance from Porch Light Health.
Colorado Medicaid Updates Sign-Up
Signing up is optional and is not required to receive care.

More Help and Resources

Looking for New Mexico Medicaid information?

Visit our New Mexico Medicaid Help Center for New Mexico-specific information, updates, and assistance.
Visit the New Mexico Medicaid Help Center

Need help with transportation, food, housing, or other needs?

Visit our Resource Center to find additional services and support that can help you stay connected to care.
Visit the Resource Center

Helping Someone Access Care?

Porch Light Health works with healthcare providers, community organizations, social-service agencies, first responders, and other partners throughout Colorado.
If someone in your community needs help applying for Medicaid, responding to a notice, maintaining coverage, or accessing substance use disorder or mental health treatment, send them to us.
They’ve got people, too.
Porch Light Health provides Medicaid navigation, education, and treatment support. Medicaid eligibility and coverage decisions are made by Health First Colorado and the appropriate state or county agencies. Information may change as additional state and federal guidance becomes available.
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