Special Connections
Special Connections is a program for pregnant and postpartum people who have substance use disorders and are covered by Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid program). Special Connections helps members have healthier pregnancies and healthier babies by providing case management, counseling, and health education during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. Special Connections services are in addition to any prenatal care provided by other care providers, such as doctors or nurse-midwifes. Special Connections providers offer pregnancy risk assessments, care coordination services, group counseling sessions, individual counseling sessions, health education groups, and residential substance use disorder treatment in a women-only setting. Special Connections providers will perform risk screenings to see if a member qualifies for Special Connections.
Who Qualifies?
Pregnant and Postpartum people who are:
- A Health First Colorado member
- Pregnant or within one year postpartum
- At risk of having an unhealthy pregnancy and unhealthy baby because of a substance use disorder
Benefits and Services
Services can be outpatient or residential depending on a member's level of risk. Services include:
- Case management
- Individual substance abuse counseling
- Group substance abuse counseling with other pregnant women
- Group health education with other pregnant women
- Urine screening and monitoring
- Referral to appropriate aftercare and ongoing support
What Does It Cost?
For pregnant and postpartum Medicaid members, the services are free.
How to Apply
You can apply for Health First Colorado online, on the phone, in person, or through the mail.
Where Do I Get These Services?
You can call the Behavioral Health Administration at 303-866-7400 or see a list of providers.
If you have more questions about this program, please contact the Health First Colorado Member Contact Center.