When patients need specialty input, the traditional process can feel slow and fragmented — a referral, a long wait, and another appointment before answers arrive. For many Colorado Medicaid (Health First Colorado) patients, that delay can mean weeks of uncertainty and disruption.
Now, primary care providers have a better way to bridge that gap: eConsults. These secure digital consultations allow PCPs to reach out to specialists quickly, get actionable guidance, and deliver expert-informed care — all without the need for an immediate in-person referral.
How eConsults strengthen care collaboration
An eConsult is a secure, online exchange between a primary care provider and a specialist. When a PCP encounters a case that needs a second opinion — like an unusual lab result, a complex medication question, or a diagnostic concern — they can submit an eConsult through the Colorado Medicaid platform.
A specialist reviews the case and sends back clear, evidence-based recommendations within a few days. The PCP then uses that guidance to adjust the patient’s care plan, explain next steps, or determine whether an in-person specialist visit is truly necessary.
The result? Better, faster, and more connected care.
Empowering primary care, not replacing specialists
eConsults don’t replace specialists — they enhance collaboration. Instead of working in silos, primary care and specialty providers share expertise directly through secure communication.
This model keeps care coordinated within the medical home, where patients already have trusted relationships. It also ensures that when a specialist referral is needed, it’s targeted and well-prepared, improving outcomes for both patients and providers.
The benefits for Colorado PCPs and patients
- Faster access to specialty advice – Responses usually arrive within a few days, cutting wait times dramatically.
- Reduced unnecessary referrals – Many questions can be resolved digitally, allowing patients to avoid extra visits and costs.
- Better continuity of care – PCPs maintain oversight and follow-through on the specialist’s recommendations.
- Professional growth – Providers learn from ongoing specialist input, improving clinical confidence and knowledge.
- Fully covered under Colorado Medicaid – eConsults are built into Medicaid coverage, with no added cost for patients.
Building a smarter system of care
For PCPs, eConsults mean being empowered to act — not just refer. For patients, they mean getting timely, coordinated care from a team that communicates clearly. And for Colorado’s healthcare system, they mean fewer gaps, faster decisions, and stronger collaboration between medical professionals statewide.
If you’re a Colorado Medicaid provider, now is the time to explore how eConsults can help you deliver faster, better care — supported by specialists and guided by your clinical expertise.