Balancing work, family, and healthcare isn’t easy. For many Coloradans, taking a day off for a medical appointment means lost wages, childcare challenges, and hours of travel. That’s especially true when a primary care visit leads to another appointment with a specialist — and another round of time off.
Colorado Medicaid (Health First Colorado) is helping change that. Through eConsults, primary care providers (PCPs) can connect with specialists digitally, allowing patients to get expert medical advice without leaving their community clinic.
It’s care that’s not just convenient — it’s cost-saving, time-saving, and fully covered by Medicaid.
A smarter way to access specialist care
Here’s how it works: when your primary care provider identifies a question that usually requires a specialist’s input — such as confirming a diagnosis or reviewing test results — they can send your case securely through the Colorado Medicaid eConsult platform.
Within days, the specialist reviews your information and sends back recommendations. Your PCP then shares that guidance with you and adjusts your care plan if needed.
You get the benefit of expert advice without the extra appointment, travel, or scheduling chaos.
How eConsults save families time and money
- No travel time – For many families, especially in rural or mountain areas, a single specialist appointment can mean a half-day on the road. eConsults remove that barrier entirely.
- Fewer missed work hours – Instead of taking time off for multiple appointments, you can stay on your regular schedule while your doctor handles the consultation behind the scenes.
- No added costs – eConsults are fully covered under Colorado Medicaid, meaning you pay nothing extra for the specialist’s input.
- Faster care decisions – Instead of waiting weeks for a referral, you can often get answers in a matter of days.
- Less stress for families – Parents can avoid pulling kids out of school or arranging transportation for short visits that might not even be necessary.
Empowering care for working families
For parents managing chronic conditions, or caregivers supporting older relatives, eConsults mean staying healthier without sacrificing income or family time. They’re especially valuable in communities where every hour — and every dollar — matters.
Your primary care provider takes the lead, coordinating with specialists to ensure your treatment plan is efficient, accurate, and supported by expert guidance.
If you’re covered by Colorado Medicaid, ask your doctor whether an eConsult could make your next specialist referral simpler — and help your family save time and money.