Healthcare Access

Goal 2: Build a Colorado that Supports the Healthcare Needs of All Older Coloradans

Colorado consistently ranks as one of the healthiest states in the nation. Most recently, Colorado ranked second in the nation for older adult health and wellness by America’s Health Rankings, due to our positive health behaviors such as good nutrition and physical activity, access to clinical care and generally good physical health. While this is an accomplishment to be proud of, there is still work to be done to ensure older Coloradans have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare.

The majority of Coloradans over the age of 65 are enrolled in Medicare or Medicare Advantage plans. These plans are regulated by the federal government. Though Colorado will advocate for improvements to Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans at the federal level, the majority of Colorado’s Multi-Sector Plan on Aging will focus primarily on health plans within our locus of control at the State level.

The National Council on Aging predicts almost 95 percent of adults over the age of 60 have at least one chronic health condition. In order to support older Coloradans with chronic conditions, and to prevent the development of chronic conditions, our health care systems need to be accessible, affordable and prioritize continuity of care. In order to accomplish this, Colorado will call attention to the following health system goals.

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

The World Health Organization recognizes the economic and health benefits of investing in public health resources, including health promotion and disease prevention. Colorado will partner with health plans and local public health agencies to provide comprehensive health promotion resources in settings that are meaningful to community members. This goal models the 6Cs framework to advance health equity for older adults.

Health Benefits Satisfaction

Colorado recognizes a need to improve customer satisfaction with public benefits, including the application process, comprehension of covered services and barrier reduction for access to services. This includes local health benefits access and national advocacy with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and other health plans. 

Improve Access to Appropriate Providers and Care

In 2021, Colorado reported only 110 geriatricians across the state to support a rapidly increasing older adult population. According to research from the Yale School of Public Health, ageism in healthcare costs the United States $63 billion annually. Colorado needs more healthcare providers with specialized training in geriatrics to ensure older Coloradans have access to highly skilled and appropriate care. This goal includes clinical healthcare specialties and non-clinical healthcare specialties.