Our team joined the Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Council and other safety net providers in January to advocate for Colorado’s community mental health centers. Read below to learn more about ongoing advocacy for Colorado safety net providers.
Key Issues to Monitor in our Community
Mending the Safety Net in Colorado
After the passage of BH 22-1278, the Behavioral Health Administration developed nearly 500 pages of regulations for behavioral health safety net providers to implement that statute taking effect in July 2024. Operating within these rules has presented challenges for safety net providers and has affected the care of clients throughout the state. Safety net providers are asking our legislators to:
- Track progress on these issues and ensure they do not perpetuate unintended adverse consequences for client care
Funding of Safety Net Providers
The state of Colorado is currently facing a $750 million budget shortfall that directly impacts safety net behavioral health services. Additionally, the cost of delivering care has increased and become more complex due to new state regulatory structures. Safety net providers are asking our legislators to:
- Ensure that progress on coverage and critical benefits for behavioral health are maintained
- Ensure the state’s new behavioral health system be funded adequately
- Ensure all who qualify for Medicaid are enrolled
- Maximize federal funds
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