When it comes to your health, trust and privacy matter. If your provider has recommended using an eConsult through Colorado Medicaid, you may be wondering how your personal health information is shared and protected.
The good news: eConsults are fully secure, HIPAA-compliant, and designed to protect your privacy every step of the way. This article explains how your information is used, what rights you have as a patient, and how Colorado Medicaid ensures your care is both safe and respectful.
What Is an eConsult?
An eConsult is a secure communication between your primary care provider and a medical specialist. It allows your provider to get expert guidance without sending you to a separate in-person appointment. This service is fully covered by Colorado Medicaid and is increasingly used to save time and improve care access—especially for those facing transportation or scheduling challenges.
How Your Health Information Is Protected
All eConsults are processed through secure platforms that meet HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) standards. This means:
- Your personal health information is encrypted and protected
- Only authorized medical professionals involved in your care can view your information
- Your records are not shared or sold to third parties
- Every access to your file is logged and tracked
These protections are the same ones used by hospitals, health systems, and major medical providers across the country.
Who Can See Your eConsult?
Only your primary care provider, the consulting specialist, and necessary support staff directly involved in your treatment have access to the eConsult. Your information is not shared with insurance companies, employers, or any outside parties without your consent.
If the specialist recommends further treatment or testing, your primary care provider will discuss that with you directly and help coordinate next steps.
Your Rights as a Colorado Medicaid Patient
As a patient, you have the right to:
- Be informed about how your information is shared
- Ask questions about your provider’s use of eConsult
- Request a copy of your medical records
- Decline the use of eConsult if you prefer an in-person referral
- Receive care that respects your privacy, dignity, and values
Your provider should always explain the reason for requesting an eConsult and involve you in decisions about your care.
Building Trust Through Transparency
eConsults are designed to make care more accessible—not less personal. Even though you won’t meet the specialist directly, you remain at the center of every decision. Your regular provider stays in charge of your care and keeps you informed throughout the process.
If you ever have concerns about how your health data is being handled, speak with your provider. You deserve to feel safe and supported in every aspect of your healthcare journey.