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Hospital Emergency Services

Are hospital emergency services available to Health First Colorado members?

Yes. Hospital emergency services are available to Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid Program) members. Emergency services are needed when symptoms are so severe that the absence of immediate medical attention could reasonably be expected to seriously jeopardize the patient's health or the bodily functions of any bodily organ or part.

What are hospital emergency services?

Emergency services include transportation, emergency room and urgent care outpatient services. Laboratory, X-ray and other medical tests may be provided during emergency room visits when ordered by a doctor.

Will Health First Colorado pay for an ambulance?

Yes. If someone calls an ambulance for you during an emergency, the ambulance services will be paid by Health First Colorado. In an emergency, you should call 911.

How do I get emergency services?

If you are very ill or injured, you may call 911, go to an urgent care center or go to an emergency department. You should always see your primary care doctor for minor illnesses.

If I'm not sure that I need emergency services but want to talk to someone, who can I call?

You can call 1-800-283-3221 to talk to a nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The nurse will ask you questions about your concerns and help you decide whether you need to go to an emergency room.

Are all services approved for payment?

No. If you go to an emergency room with a minor health problem that can wait for treatment, emergency room staff may inform you that you cannot be treated as an emergency. However, they will make absolutely certain that you are not in danger before they turn you away.

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