Medicaid Continuous Coverage to end
Return signed Health First Colorado and CHP+ renewal packets now
Media Contact: Mike Bordogna, County Manager, 970-728-3844, mikeb@sanmiguelcountyco.gov
Carol Friedrich, San Miguel County Social Services Director, 970-728-4411, carol.friedrich@state.co.us
(March 24, 2023) – San Miguel County Social Services department has an important message for you: Complete, sign and return your Medicaid renewal packet in order to keep coverage, if you qualify.
Now that the Public Health Emergency declared by federal officials at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has been lifted, Medicaid Continuous Coverage is ending as of this spring. What this means for Medicaid members is that Colorado will return to normal eligibility renewal processes for Health First Colorado and CHP+.
The county’s Social Service office is encouraging members who receive their renewal packets via mail or their PEAK mailbox to be sure to complete the paperwork as soon as it’s received. And, a signature is a must.
“A recent change now requires a signed renewal packet,” San Miguel and Ouray County Social Services Director, Carol Friedrich, explained. “We are unable to process unsigned packets.”
Once completely filled out and signed, there are a number of ways to return the packet, including email, traditional mail or in person.
To return by email, send to jack.jensen@state.co.us or londa.bercillio@state.co.us or mail it to San Miguel County’s Social Services office at PO Box 96 Telluride, Colorado 81435. To deliver by hand simply drop it off at our 1st Floor Drop Box at 333 West Colorado Avenue in Telluride.
With the end of the Public Health Emergency and the extensive health coverage state agencies were required to extend, it is possible some who were covered under the PHE orders may not qualify in this round of renewals. Friedrich said that of the 1,300 Medicaid members in San Miguel County, her office estimates that 28% may not be eligible at their renewal. Those members will be notified and provided options and steps to take to obtain coverage. Friedrich said there are options available
“If you or a family member no longer qualify for Health First Colorado or CHP+, you may be able to buy a health plan through Connect for Health Colorado, Colorado’s official health insurance marketplace,” Friedrich said. “You may qualify for financial help to lower the cost of private health insurance.”