When your primary care provider submits an eConsult, it starts a secure conversation with a medical specialist—often without you ever needing to attend another appointment. But what exactly happens after the eConsult is submitted? And how does the specialist’s guidance affect your care?
For Colorado Medicaid members, understanding this process can help build confidence in how your care is being managed. Here’s what to know about how eConsult responses work and how they help you get the answers you need faster.
What the Specialist Sees
Once your provider submits the eConsult through the Colorado Medicaid eConsult platform, the specialist receives a clinical summary. This includes your medical history, test results, medications, symptoms, and a specific question or concern from your provider. No extra steps are required from you.
The specialist carefully reviews your case, just as they would if you were referred for an in-person consultation. Because your primary care provider knows your full health history, their input helps the specialist provide personalized, accurate guidance.
What the Specialist Sends Back
After reviewing the details, the specialist responds directly to your provider. Their response usually includes:
- Diagnostic or treatment suggestions
- Recommendations for medication adjustments
- Input on whether more tests or follow-up care are needed
- A decision on whether a face-to-face referral is necessary
This response typically arrives within a few days—much faster than a traditional referral appointment.
How Your Provider Uses the Response
Your provider reviews the specialist’s feedback and updates your care plan as needed. They may:
- Call you to explain next steps
- Schedule a follow-up visit
- Adjust your medication or order new tests
- Reassure you that no further action is needed
All of this happens under your existing Medicaid coverage, with no extra steps, travel, or cost to you.
Why This Matters
In many cases, an eConsult means you don’t have to wait weeks or months to see a specialist or travel long distances for care. You get expert insight, coordinated through your trusted provider, right where you already receive care.
It also means more efficient care. Your provider can make informed decisions faster, reducing delays and improving outcomes—especially for chronic or complex health conditions.
Your Role in the Process
Even though you won’t interact directly with the specialist, your voice still matters. Be open with your primary care provider about your symptoms, concerns, and goals. If you have questions about what an eConsult means for your care, don’t hesitate to ask.
You can also say:
“Would an eConsult help in this situation?”
Your provider will know whether it’s the right next step.