Hospital Discounted Care

WHAT IS HOSPITAL DISCOUNTED CARE?

Hospital Discounted Care (HDC) is a law that requires hospitals to screen all uninsured patients for eligibility for state-run programs (like Health First Colorado (Medicaid), and Children Health Plan Plus) and provide care at a discounted rate to anyone with a household income below 250% of the federal poverty line (roughly $3,260/month for an individual, $6,697/month for a family of 4).

If you are insured you have the right to be screened for Hospital Discounted Care too – be sure to ask!

After being screened for eligibility, you have the right to apply for Hospital Discounted Care and any state-run coverage programs without delay. 

Please note! The 250% of the federal poverty line is only a floor! Some hospitals may provide discounts up to 400% of the federal poverty line or greater. When in doubt, ask someone at the billing and or financial aid office of your facility.

PROBLEMS WITH HOSPITAL DISCOUNTED CARE?

If you are having issues with hospital bills and believe the hospital is not providing you with information, not screening you properly, or has made an incorrect determination of your eligibility for hospital discounted care, contact the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Finance (HCPF) at HCPF_HospDiscountCare@state.co.us. If you are still having problems, contact our Consumer Assistance Program.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• Call the HCPF Department at 1-800-221-3943.
• Submit a complaint by email: HCPF_HospDiscountCare@state.co.us
• Get help from CCHI’s Consumer Assistance Program