HCPF New Consumer Resource: How to check your application status

“Coloradans are now able to check the status of their Medical Assistance Application (includes Medicaid and Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) by calling 1-800-359-1991 between 8:00am and 6:00pm Monday-Friday (closed state holidays).  Customer service representatives will be on hand to assist with identifying the status of a caller’s application, and if needed, obtain the information needed to process their application.  Applicants will need to provide their Application Tracking Number, found on the final screen of the online application when they call.

Federal law requires all applicants seeking financial assistance to help buy insurance through Connect for Health Colorado marketplace be screened for Medicaid first. Once it is determined a person does not qualify for Medicaid, the individual can then apply for financial assistance to buy insurance through the Connect for Health Colorado marketplace. In Colorado, the average processing time for a Medical Assistance application is 16 days.

Click here to find out what steps you can take if you are awaiting an eligibility determination.  Please share this resource with consumers if they have questions.  You can also find this information on our new page Colorado.gov/HCPF/MyApplication.  This page will continue to be updated with important application related information.

HCPF has also updated their messaging guidelines.  Check out the latest version here on Coloraod.gov/HCPF/ACAResources.”  [Source:  HCPF]

Who is a candidate for diabetes prevention?

“An estimated 80 million Americans have prediabetes, yet only one in 10 is aware of it.  Few patients take advantage of a prevention program like the Diabetes Prevention Program that can help them avoid type 2 diabetes.  Eligibility for participation in the evidence-based program is open to overweight and obese adults who have a recent blood test scores in the prediabetic range, or who score nine or more points on the CDC’s prediabetes screening test.  Have your patients or clients call 1-800-DIABETES to find Diabetes Prevention Programs in Colorado.”  [Source:  COPrevent]

Survey for Medicaid Clients

"This survey is being conducted to collect input from Medicaid consumers about their preferences for receiving primary care in the Accountable Care Collaborative (ACC) program.  All surveys must be complete by Wednesday, December 4th, 2013 (online survey closes at 5:00pm). Please note that the deadline has been extended from November 29th to December 4th.

• Online Survey in English
• Online Survey in Spanish
• Hard copy of survey in English
• Hard copy of survey in Spanish

This survey is being conducted by a workgroup of the Provider and Community Relations Subcommittee, which is part of the ACC Program Improvement Advisory Committee.  The results will be used to inform discussion about potential policy recommendations to the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing.  The survey may be completed by an adult Medicaid recipient for his or herself and for each of his or her children who receive Medicaid. Only one survey should be completed per individual Medicaid recipient."  [Source:  HCPF]

Connect Campaign wants to hear from you!

ClinicNET continues to participate in the Connect Campaign, a collaboration of stakeholders formed in 2011 to fulfill the promise of coverage and care for newly Medicaid eligible low-income adults without dependent children (AWDC.) Over time, the Campaign’s focus broadened to ensure Medicaid’s ability to cover and care for all of its populations efficiently and effectively.

We would like to be able to accurately represent your perspective and experiences relative to AwDC Medicaid Early Enrollment to date. For example, have patients been asking any questions about the Medicaid roll out or have you encountered any specific issues in the first 2 months of this Medicaid expansion? Please contact Brooke Powers, brooke.powers@clinicnet.org, or Aubrey Hill, aubrey.hill@ccmu.org with any stories or experiences you would like to share.

2014 Legislative Forecast Webinar

“With the 2014 legislative session fast approaching, it’s time for the Colorado Health Institute to look into its crystal ball and predict what the coming year will mean for health policy.  We’ve been talking with lawmakers, health policy experts, advocates and others throughout Colorado to gather intelligence on the trends we expect to see.  Now, we’d like to share that information with you.

Please join us for the ‘Legislative Forecast: Health Policy Tends to Anticipate in 2014’ webinar on Wednesday, December 11, 12:00-1:00pm. Space is limited.  Register here.”  [Source:  CHI]

ADA Offers Free mHealth Program: Living With Type 2 Diabetes

"To guide and support individuals with type 2 diabetes, the American Diabetes Association is offering a free 12-month program called Living With Type 2 Diabetes.  The program provides information and offers a free guidance to help people learn how to manage diabetes at regular intervals throughout the year-long.

The program is available in English and Spanish and participants can choose to receive information online or through the mail.  Participants can also choose to receive additional recipes, tips and reminders on their phone.  People can enroll into this free program by visiting the website, calling 1-800-DIABETES, or texting Type2 to 69866 to learn more about the program in English or Tipo2 to 69866 to learn more about the program in Spanish.

For more information please visit www.diabetes.org, or call the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383)."  [Source: COPrevent]

How Well do Healthcare Organizations Serve Low-Income Communities? Comment on Metrics Now Being Developed

"The Center for Health Market Innovations is developing standard definitions for relevant social and financial performance metrics commonly tracked by healthcare organizations serving low-income communities.  The goal is to provide a tool for impact investors, funders, and program implementers to help answer the question of how well these organizations serve the poor.  See more on the metrics development process.

To ensure that the metrics are broadly relevant, well-defined, ad feasible for health enterprises to report against, they invite your input and reactions to their metrics draft as part of an open comment period running through December 2013.  Based on input, edits will be made and these metrics will be made public in the early 2014.  Read more on how to comment."  [Source: CCI Voice]

Science Advisory Released: Hypertension Control Protocol

"Improving clinical performance is a top priority for CDC's Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention.  Million Hearts has prioritized improving blood pressure control in the US.  As part of this work, this week, CDC, the American Heart Association, and the American College of Cardiology issued a science advisory recommending that US practices and health systems adopt and use evidence-based hypertension control protocols.

Click here to read the joint advisory.  Sample protocols and a customizable protocol based on current guidelines are available on the Million Hearts website.  A Journal of the American Medical Association viewpoint with CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden as lead author is also available."  [Source: COPrevent]

New Safety Net Advisory Council (SNAC) Learning Lab materials available online

"The Colorado Health Institute convened the fifth SNAC Learning Lab of the 2013-2014 season on November 14th.  This session focused on new data sources that provide the consumer perspective.  The Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) survey measures the patient experience within the Medicaid Accountable Care Collaborative.  The 2013 Colorado Health Access Survey (CHAS) providers a consumer perspective on a range of health issues, including barriers to care.  Thank you to those who attended.

The Colorado Health Institute team has posted materials from the meeting here. A summary of the discussion in the fifth of a new series, Food for Thought: Updates from the Safety Net Advisory Committee (SNAC), will be posted in the next few weeks.

The next SNAC Lab meeting, which will focus on the Accountable Care Collaborative, is schedule for Thursday, January 23rd, from 12:00-1:30pm at CHI."  [Source: Colorado Health Institute]

Insuring Our Future

Insuring Our Future is a partnership of organizations who share a common belief in the value of health insurance in securing our state’s overall health care landscape.  Insuring Our Future seeks to provide education resources to help explain the importance of insurance, as well as support ways that health insurance coverage can be improved and grown for all Coloradoans who need it.

Their website provides links to resources created by the partnership as well as stories of how health reform has changed – or could change – the lives of real Coloradans.  Click here to view IOF’s updated messaging.  [Source:  Insuring Our Future]

Diabetes’ Impact on Colorado Fact Sheet Released

“The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment released a new fact sheet on diabetes.  See the Diabetes’ Impact on Colorado Fact Sheet. The number of adult Coloradans with diabetes has soared 157% during the past decade, from 4.7% in 2003 to 7.4% in 2012.

Help is available for Coloradans at risk for diabetes.  The Diabetes Prevention Program, now being offered by the YMCA of Metropolitan Denver, the American Diabetes Association and community groups across Colorado can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. For more information or to enroll in a Diabetes Prevention Program, call 1-800-DIABETES.”  [Source: COPrevent]

Contribute to ClinicNET on Colorado Gives Day, December 10th

Please support ClinicNET on Colorado Gives Day! On Tuesday, December 10, 2013, Coloradans will come together again to raise millions of dollars for nonprofits like ours.

Our profile offers information about what’s new at ClinicNET, our financial history, organizational statements, and testimonials from ClinicNET leadership and partners.  The best thing about this this profile?  It makes supporting ClinicNET quick and simple!  This is a great way for you to help ClinicNET continue to strengthen Colorado’s health care safety net.

ClinicNET is grateful for the support we receive from our current funders, affiliates, and friends.  Please consider making a contribution to ClinicNET at any time during the 24 hour period of December 10th or pre-schedule your donation now to “give where you live!”  Thank you for your support.

HCPF Update on Medicaid enrollment and PEAK upgrades

“Latest Metrics from Connect for Health Colorado and Medicaid
Connect for Health Colorado and Colorado Medicaid jointly released updated metrics on Monday.  For additional metrics from Medicaid click here to view our fact sheet.  If you would like more details on Connect for Health Colorado’s metrics click here.

Additionally, Medicaid and Connect for Health Colorado released a joint statement last week regarding the US Department of Health and Human Services enrollment report.  Click here for the statement.

PEAK Website Upgrades
The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing recently upgraded its online application for medical assistance programs available on Colorado.gov/PEAK.  The upgrades are part of a series of changes to streamline the PEAK application and improve the user experience.  You can find over 100 PEAK application FAQs on Colorado.gov/Health and application tips here.  Additionally, click here to view our latest fact sheet about real time eligibility determinations.

Don't forget to check out HCPF's extensive list of ACA Resources for Partners and Consumers.”   [Source: HCPF]

Save the date for the next Colorado Medical Home Initiative Community Forum, December 10th

“We hope you will join us for the Colorado Medical Home Community Forum on ‘Integrating Behavioral Health into the Medical Home.’ We look forward to hearing from our guest speakers.  Click here to register.

When:  Tuesday, December 10th, 2013 |  4:30pm-6:45pm

Where:  Colorado Dept. of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) | Building A in the DOC Room, 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South, Denver CO 80246"

[Source: Colorado Medical Home Initiative]

January 2014 Lifestyle Coach Training for Diabetes Prevention Program

“Is your organization planning on delivering the National Diabetes Prevention Program lifestyle change program - the nation's foremost evidence-based program for the prevention of type 2 diabetes? The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is partnering with the Diabetes Training and Technical Assistance Center (DTTAC) at Emory University to bring National Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Coach Training to Colorado on January 16 and 17, 2014.

DTTAC Lifestyle Coach Training is a highly interactive, 2-day, in-person training with an expert DTTAC Master Trainer that provides your Lifestyle Coaches with the skills, knowledge and experience that they need to successfully facilitate the proven-effective lifestyle change program. Click here for more information on DTTAC Lifestyle Coach Training.”  [Source: COPrevent]

Social Determinants of Health – Video Released by CCMU

"The Colorado Coalition for the Medically Underserved released a video on November 13th highlighting several factors that interfere with patients’ ability to get health care needs met. Watch the video here, featuring ClinicNET affiliates! These factors, known as social determinants of health, are things like income, education, access to quality food and housing, race, or ethnicity. A patient’s ability to navigate the health care system and get their needs met is defined by these social determinants and their provider’s ability to work with those challenges.

This video aims to increase awareness and empathy among current and future providers, as well as encourage creative thinking to find new solutions to these old problems. We believe that this is key to improving patient outcomes and compliance. We believe that the field of medicine is a science, but the practice of health care is an art that acknowledges the whole of the patient’s life.

You can also view the video on the website here, and you can also review the discussion guide meant to spark a conversation after the video is viewed." [Source: CCMU]

Resources for Safety Net Providers from AmeriCares

“AmeriCares is a global health and humanitarian non-profit dedicated to responding to the needs of the health care safety net around the world.  In the US, we work with free clinics, FQHC’s and other safety net organizations to provide medications, vaccines and supplies to low-income, uninsured and underinsured patients.

Who is Eligible for Our Donations:  Patients under 200% FPL and uninsured or underinsured. Underinsured patients include those with Medicaid or Medicare without drug coverage or unable to afford prescription co-pays.

How to Become a Partner: Complete on online application. Go to their website and click on “Create an Account”

How to Access AmeriCares Donations: Once you are an approved partner, you can order their on-going donations of medicine, medical supplies and hygiene items by logging into their website.

Resources at SafetyNetCenter: In addition to donating products to safety-net organizations, AmeriCares also manages a website, www.safetynetcenter.org, which houses a collection of resources specifically for safety net providers and their patients.

For more information please contact AmeriCares at uspartnerships@americares.org or 203-658-9690.”  [Source: AmeriCares]

ICD-10: Compliance Date Less Than One Year Out

“CMS is encouraging the health care industry to take advantage of the numerous resources for checking progress and any actions that may be needed because the October 1, 2014 is quickly approaching.  To help support providers and other health care organizations, CMS is offering Resources for Providers.

Visit the CMS ICD-10 website for the latest news and resources to help prepare for the October 1, 2014 deadline. Sign up for CMS ICD-10 Industry Email Updates and follow us on twitter.”  [Source: CMS]

ACA Implementation Newsletter - Nov. 14

Click here for the latest ACA Implementation Newsletter from November 14th. This issue contains an overview of the recent enhancements to the PEAK application, new PEAK application resources, an update on Medicaid benefits and the most recent enrollment metrics from Medicaid and Connect for Health Colorado.  [Source: HCPF]

CORHIO Recorded Webinars

“Meaningful Use Stages 1 & 2:  Making Sure You Get the Most Out of Your EHR (recorded 10/1/13) - Learn what's changed between stages 1 and 2 of Meaningful Use, how to meet the most difficult objectives, tips on clinical quality measures, and more about important timelines and penalties. Download Slides.  Download Recording.

HIPAA Omnibus Update (recorded 8/23/13) - A high-level overview by HIPAA expert David Ginsberg on the new HIPAA “Omnibus Rule,” including effective dates you need to know, specific provisions and changes, and a special focus on breach notification. Please note: to request a HIPAA toolkit, please contact Kelly Meade at kmeade@corhio.org or 720-285-3251. Download Recording.

Click here to see a list of more recorded webinars from CORHIO.”   [Source: CORHIO]

Update on Medicaid Benefits for Newly Eligible

“Beginning January 1, 2014, more Coloradans will be newly eligible for free or low cost coverage through Colorado Medicaid. Currently, Medicaid offers primary care, behavioral health, hospitalization, rehabilitative services, laboratory services, outpatient care, prescription drugs, emergency care, dental care, maternity care and newborn care.  The benefit package for newly eligible Medicaid clients will be largely the same as the current Medicaid benefits, including the new dental benefit and enhanced mental health and substance use disorder benefit.

In accordance with federal law, the newly eligible Medicaid clients will receive preventive and wellness services as defined by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. In an effort to align Medicaid benefits, the current Medicaid benefit package will be expanded to include these preventive and wellness services.  Additionally, the newly eligible Medicaid clients will receive habilitative services, which are considered to help individuals maintain skills necessary for daily living.

The benefit package for the newly eligible providing general Medicaid coverage, additional preventive and wellness services and habilitative services must be approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing will continue to update you on the approval process.

For information view our fact sheet here. If you have questions regarding the Department’s implementation of the Affordable Care Act check out our FAQs at Colorado.gov/Health, Colorado.gov/HCPF/ACAResources or submit your question to ACAImplementation@hcpf.state.co.us.” [Source: HCPF]

New Funding from TGYS Available

“The TGYS Program is excited to announce the release of the Request for Application (RFA) for the next three-year funding cycle that begins July 1st, 2014.  TGYS provides funding for community-based programs that target youth and their families with prevention and intervention services in an effort to prevent incidents of youth crime and violence, and child abuse and neglect.

To begin the TGYS application process, visit the TGYS website at: www.colorado.gov/CDHS/TGYS and download the application. The TGYS Program highly recommends that all potential applicants watch the RFA Technical Assistance Webinar, also posted on the TGYS website. This webinar provides information about the TGYS program, outlines the RFA requirements and provides resources and tips for submitting a competitive application.

Applications must be submitted by email and received by 4:00 pm Mountain Time on Wednesday, December 18, 2013. Additional instructions are provided in the RFA document. If any questions remain, please submit these via the online form at: TGYS RFA Question Submission Form, and responses will be posted weekly on the TGYS website.

Thank you for your work and dedication to ensure that children and youth in Colorado are safe, healthy, educated, connected and contributing.”  [Source: COPrevent]

State Health supports Great American Smokeout with partner communication tools

“The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has developed Great American Smokeout communications tools to support our many partners calling on Coloradans to join millions of Americans on November 21 as they break free from their addiction to tobacco.

It isn’t easy to quit, but it’s worth it, and there is help available. In addition to CDPHE tools, there are many resources available for Coloradans ready to quit smoking. Smokers and their families can learn more about tobacco at tobaccofreeco.org. Those who are ready to quit can call the Colorado QuitLine at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. For those who want help quitting via their phones, Colorado Quit Mobile is a text message-based program that gives you instant support and coaching when you feel the urge to use tobacco. For help close to home, talk to your health care provider.”  [Source: COPrevent]

Voices of the Healthcare Safety Net: Perspectives from Leaders of Nonprofit Safety Net Health Centers and Clinics on Frontlines of ACA implementation

“As millions of people across the country attempt to gain insurance access under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Direct Relief today released, “Voices of the Healthcare Safety Net,” a project that surfaces the perspectives of the healthcare providers at the nonprofit community health centers and clinics who are tasked with implementing healthcare reform and who are most experienced at caring for people with few means.  Listen to Voices of the Healthcare Safety Net.” [Source: CCI Voice]

Apply Now to the Mongan Commonwealth Fund Fellowship Program in Minority Health Policy

“In the U.S., vulnerable populations, including people with low income, the uninsured, and disadvantaged minority groups, have greater difficulty obtaining health care, receive worse care, and experience poorer outcomes than other groups.

To help close this divide, The Commonwealth Fund supports training for physician leaders dedicated to creating high-performance health systems for vulnerable populations through the Mongan Commonwealth Fund Fellowship Program in Minority Health Policy. Currently, the fellowship is accepting applicants for its 2014–15 class. The application deadline is Dec 16, 2013.” [Source: CCI Voice]

News from Oral Health Colorado

“Oral Health Colorado is partnering with Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation on its public will building campaign, Brush With Me, that is designed to increase awareness about oral health issues, and deliver key behavior change messages to Coloradans. Watch for commercials on broadcast television, and visit the campaign’s website to see how you can promote similar message in our community.

OHCO’s team at Miles Consulting attended the SMART Act briefings from CDPHE, CDHS, and HCPF. All three departments presented to member of “Joint Health Committee,” which included members of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee, House Public Health Care and Human Services Committee and House Health Insurance and Environment Committee. The briefing were held on November 5th and 6th, 2013. Read more.

Check out the new informative Fluoridated Water – Tap into it! video from Brighter Futures Michigan on the safety and benefits of  community water fluoridation.” [Source: OHCO]

Integrated Behavioral Health Screening Tools for Primary Care

“The Integrated Behavioral Health Project (IBHP) has released a new electronic quick reference guide for behavioral health professionals. "Integrated Behavioral Health Screening Tools for Primary Care" (Oct 2013) has been produced in conjunction with CPCA and its Behavioral Health Network. This document is designed to provide hotlinks to screening tools and resources recommended for use in primary care. 

AND SEE: The Office of Integrated Healthcare Research and Policy in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine is presenting a monthly webinar series on integrating behavioral health in primary care. Upcoming webinar 11/19." [Source: CCI Voice]

C4HCO – Progress on Enrollments

“As we enter our second month of operations, I am pleased to report several new developments. On Monday night, we added technology to our shopping website that includes the ability for customers to apply online for premium tax credits on their own after they’ve received a Medicaid denial from the State. This technology release made an immediate positive impact on the shopping experience and pace of enrollments. We also began the process of sending real-time, industry-standard and secure customer enrollment data to carriers. The shopping experience and our support operations continue to improve each day. You can also look for improvements to the Medicaid application process by mid-December as we collaborate with our State partners toward the shared mission of getting Coloradans signed up for coverage.

We’ve also added a new feature on our website that highlights customer stories and the ways in which we have created a marketplace just for Colorado, where thousands have already signed up. We encourage you to let your communities know about these customers, including their tips for new customers. Successful enrollment stories are also surfacing in the media and with our partners, including a national NPR story that aired earlier in the week. Thousands of Coloradans have signed up for 2014 coverage and we are spreading that message in our advertising campaign, which was produced by Coloradans for Coloradans and is currently airing on television, radio, online, and through text messages and billboards.

Our metrics for October are available here and we look forward to updating you on our enrollments soon.”  [Source: Connect for Health Colorado]

PEAK Updates

“Make Medical Payments Online: The ability to make medical payments online will be available beginning November 18, 2013. On Friday, November 25th, 2013 at 10a.m., a live webinar is offered in support of this new feature. Click here to sign up for the webinar. An Instructional Guide and recording of the webinar will also be posted on the PEAK website.

Enhancements to Assets and Expenses Questions: In response to feedback, beginning November 8, 2013, only those applicants who indicate that the following criteria applies to someone in the household, will need to answer questions related to Liquid Assets, Other Assets, and Other Expenses: Blindness or Disability; Help with Self-Care; Medical/Nursing Facility Information; Future Medical/Nursing Facility Information; Over 65 years of age.

Order or Print Medical Cards Online: Clients are now able to print or request medical cards online. A five minute “How To” recording is available here, and the Instructional Guide will be posted to the PEAK website.

Several resources to support PEAK use are posted to the PEAK website/Training.

Upcoming Events:

• 11/15, 10am, Online Medical Payments Webinar
• 11/20, 9-11am, La Junta in person training/meeting Colorado PEAK and Affordable Care Act Information Meeting
• 12/4, 9am, Intro to PEAK Webinar

Community-based organizations and consumers can contact cbms.help@state.co.us for any questions or technological issues. County staff can submit a service ticket through the CBMS portal.”  [Source: PEAK]

ASTHO-Supported Primary Care and Public Health Collaborative

ASTHO-Supported Primary Care and Public Health Collaborative is a partnership of more than 50 organizations that seeks to inform, align, and support the implementation of integration efforts. This initiative began with the creation of the Primary Care and Public Health Integration Strategic Map, which filled the need for a strategic approach to integration in follow-up to the IOM report Primary Care and Public Health: Exploring Integration to Improve Population Health. For more information on integration efforts visit the website.

Two new editions of CHI’s “Food for Thought”

“Two new editions of “Food for Thought,” the Colorado Health Institute’s synthesis of themes from the July 25 and September 10 Safety Net Advisory Committee (SNAC) Labs focused on the Medicaid ACC Payment Reform Initiative (HB12-1281), and factors including the sustainability of Colorado’s heath care safety net are now available here.”  [Source: Colorado Health Institute]

Benefits Collaborative Oct. 25 Meeting Follow-Up

"Minutes from the October 25th Benefits Collaborative meeting are now posted on the Benefits Collaborative web page. You may listen to an audio recording of the meeting by dialing 1-88-203-1112 and entering the replay code: 313369983.

If you click on the link provide above, you will notice - in the column labeled Handouts - a copy of the Colorado Modified HLD form and minutes from the previous Orthodontic Benefits Collaborative meetings of 2012. We have also posted - to the Listening Log column - two articles Dr. Oesterle sent for the Department's consideration.

If you have any questions, place contact Kimberley.Smith@state.co.us or call (303) 866-3977."  [Source: HCPF]

Colorado Health Access Survey: 2013 Key Findings – Webinar Nov. 13

Join the Colorado Health Institute for a webinar on November 13th, 1:30-2:30pm. They will be presenting key findings from the 2013 Colorado Health Access Survey (CHAS). Space is limited. Register Now. For more information about the Colorado Health Access Survey, please visit www.coloradohealthinstitute.org. [Source: Colorado Health Institute]

Colorado’s State Health Innovation Plan Draft for Review by November 15th

“The latest draft of Colorado’s State Health Innovation Plan (SHIP) is now posted on their website and is ready for review.  All comments are due by November 15th to Lorez Meinhold at Lorez.Meinhold@state.co.us.

SHIP lays out a vision for making Colorado the healthiest state in the nation.  As you review, please keep in mind that the plan content has been developed in response to specific requirements from CMS. Accordingly, the sections of each chapter, and the chapters themselves, reflect these requirements. We are not seeking wording or language changes at this time. Instead, please provide high-level content feedback including significant omissions or topics that were not sufficiently addressed; inaccuracies, misstatements or misrepresentations; or other issues or concerns about the contents." [Source: Colorado SIM]

2013 Colorado Health Access Survey Data Released November 5th

“The 2013 Colorado Health Access Survey was released November 5th.  The Colorado Health Access Survey – the CHAS – is the premier source of information on health insurance coverage, access to health care and how health care is used in Colorado. Findings from the 2013 CHAS give a detailed picture of Colorado’s changing health landscape. The data will serve another important function as well – providing a baseline of information to help measure the impact of the Affordable Care Act in Colorado. CHAS data will show how many additional Coloradans obtain health insurance, whether it is affordable and whether having health insurance translates into better access to health care.

High-level findings from the 2013 CHAS:

• 741,000 Coloradoans – one of seven residents – does not have health insurance.
• Hispanic Coloradans are disproportionately uninsured. Approximately 26 percent of the population identifies as Hispanic, but 38.6 percent of the uninsured are Hispanic. (See graph below.)
• Nearly 8 percent of Coloradans said they needed mental health services or counseling services in the 12 months before the survey, but did not get them, with the most frequently cited reasons relating to cost.
• More than one of four young adults between the ages of 19 and 26 do not have health insurance, the highest rate among all age groups.

Visit this page to access more findings from the 2013 CHAS.”  [Source:  The Colorado Trust]

November is National Diabetes Month and NDEP Webinar on Nov. 12

“In observance of National Diabetes Month 2013, the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) and its partners are reminding people that Diabetes is a Family Affair.

Diabetes is a challenging disease that affects the entire family in many ways. For people living with diabetes and their loved ones, family support is very important when it comes to managing diabetes and preventing serious health problems. It’s also important to know that having a family history of diabetes – such as a mother, father, brother, or sister with diabetes – increases a person’s risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

Looking for ideas and materials? NDEP has many ready-to-use resources you can use to promote National Diabetes Month in your community – such as press releases, articles, web buttons, social media messages, and more – available at YourDiabetesInfo.org/DiabetesMonth2013.

NDEP is also hosting a webinar on Tuesday, November 12, from 12:00-1:00pm. This webinar is about “Using Plain Language to Make Diabetes Messages Clear and Simple,” featuring Wendy Mettger, M.A., President of Mettger Communications.  Click here to register and for more information.”  [Source: COPrevent]

Coding and Billing Workshops coordinated by The Family Planning Unit at CDHPE

“The Family Planning Unit at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is working with RT Welter & Associates to coordinate three regional coding and billing workshops! The workshops will provide coding and billing information in a three-hour morning session, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Although discussion will focus on family planning clinic-specific billing and coding, most of the information provided will be helpful for any health care clinic new to billing and coding. Topics include: the revenue cycle, billing basics, collections, diagnosis codes, evaluation and management (E & M) coding, ICD-10, and family planning clinical scenarios. Title X clinics receive priority registration; if a waitlist develops, non-Title X clinics may lose their registration spaces.

Clinic staff also have the option to sign up for a half-hour, one-on-one technical assistance session, offered between 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Workshops will be held in:

• Grand Junction (Friday, November 8th at Community Hospital),
• Boulder (Thursday, November 21st at Via Mobility Services), and in
• Colorado Springs (Friday, December 6th at El Paso County Public Health).

To register, or for more information, click on the name of the city (above) to be taken to the event page. Please contact Callie Preheim at (303) 692-6268 or callie.preheim@state.co.us with any questions. [Source: CDPHE]

Connect for Health Colorado CEO says state health exchange off to a good start

A message from Connect for Health Colorado Chief Executive Officer Patty Fontneau on the first month of operations for the Colorado’s health exchange:
“Today [Nov. 1st] marks the end of our first month since opening Colorado’s health insurance marketplace and I am pleased to report that interest has been strong and we have been busy helping Coloradans shop for health insurance. Thousands of Coloradans are visiting our website every day to compare health plans, learn about their options, apply for financial assistance and enroll. Our Customer Service Center has seen high demand, servicing close to 30,000 phone calls to date. More than 50,000 Coloradans have created accounts with the intent to buy health insurance and more than 3,000 have signed up already. We are quickly resolving technical issues that arise and are working hard every day to improve our operations, customer service and support for our statewide network of certified health insurance agents/brokers and Health Coverage Guides who are on the front lines assisting our customers.

Following the direction set by a 2011 state law, we created a unique service for Colorado through a website and support network that is completely separate from the federal marketplace. It’s important for Coloradans to know that our Marketplace has been operating successfully and has been built specifically for our state. As one Eagle County customer who enrolled in health insurance that will cost her $132 a month with a tax credit: “It worked out great for me. Colorado really has it together.

Click here to read more on 10 facts about how Connect for Health Colorado is working for Colorado.” [Source: COPrevent]

New Nutrition Guidelines from the American Diabetes Association: One Size Does Not Fit All

“The American Diabetes Association (ADA) has released a new position statement on nutrition therapy for patients with diabetes in Diabetes Care, October 2013. The last statement was published in 2008. These new guidelines acknowledge there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to recommending nutrition therapy for patients with diabetes. All nutrition therapy should be individualized suggesting patients consider their individual goals and choose an eating pattern that fits their food preferences, yet is still nutritional.

Practice Pearls:

• New nutrition guidelines available replace those from 2008 and acknowledge there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to eating plans.
• Recommendation of portion sizes should take into account individual preferences, culture, religious beliefs, traditions and metabolic goals.
• Patients with diabetes should receive individualized nutrition therapy to improve clinical outcomes.”   [Source: COPrevent]

HCPF October At a Glance & CICP November Newsletter

The October At A Glance publication provides information on major initiatives including policy changes and program updates from the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing.

Please view the CICP November Newsletter. [Source: HCPF]

Denver Metropolitan Affiliate of Susan G. Komen® Announces Request for Applications to Fund Breast Cancer Projects

"The Denver Metropolitan Affiliate of Susan G. Komen® has released its Request for Applications for funding of breast cancer projects for the 2014-2015 fiscal year through its website at http://www.komendenver.org/grants-program/how-to-apply/. Since its founding in 1992, Komen Denver has invested more than $32 million in local breast health awareness and breast cancer screening and treatment projects in the Affiliate’s 19-county service area of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, Denver, Douglas, Gilpin, Jefferson, Larimer, Logan, Morgan, Park, Phillips, Sedgwick, Summit, Washington, Weld and Yuma counties.

For the 2014-2015 fiscal year, Komen Denver will consider breast cancer projects that meet at least one of the Affiliate’s priorities of:

• Increasing access to breast cancer screening, diagnostics and treatment by reducing financial barriers for uninsured and under-insured populations, with priority populations including Hispanic/Latina; African American/Black; gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender; Native American; rural; or low-income individuals.
• Increasing culturally relevant breast health education and awareness in medically underserved populations through partnerships with community health workers, promotore/a or similar, community-based navigation programs, with the end-goal of these projects being to connect medically underserved individuals with clinical breast exams (CBEs) and mammograms.
• Building capacity for the continuum of breast health care with the goal of creating continuity between education, navigation, screening, diagnostics, treatment, and patient support.

Breast cancer projects seeking funding from the Affiliate should fall into one of the following funding categories:

• Community Health Workers (CHW): Members of the community who are fluent in and sensitive to the language and culture of their audience with the primary aim of helping people in their community understand health behaviors, recognize health options, and make decisions that will improve their health. Komen Denver Affiliate considers proposals for projects where CHWs provide culturally responsive breast health education to diverse populations that focus on addressing barriers to screening. The end-goal of these projects is to connect medically underserved individuals with clinical breast exams, mammograms and timely follow-up diagnostic care.
• Screening: Provide direct patient screening services that include all aspects of breast cancer screening, diagnostics and other follow up care at a clinical location.
• Treatment: Provide direct patient services that include all aspects of breast cancer treatment including, diagnostics and staging, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, surgery, counseling, navigation, alternative therapies and other follow up care in a medical setting.
• Patient Support: Offer assistance outside of direct clinical services that assist breast cancer patients with their immediate needs in healing mentally and physically and that improve the overall treatment experience. Komen Denver Affiliate considers proposals for a wide range of non-medical support services that can greatly improve the patient’s life, decrease stress over finances and assist the breast cancer patient in dealing with their diagnosis Projects funded in this area must focus on breast cancer patients who are actively in treatment.

The Affiliate will only fund projects that focus exclusively on breast health and/or breast cancer for uninsured, underinsured and low-income individuals. Qualifying organizations include any United States nonprofit, federally tax-exempt organization, including nonprofit hospitals and hospital systems, governmental entities, Indian tribes, and nonprofit educational institutions, with tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Service code.

To access the 2014-2015 application for funding, click on “How to Apply” in the Grants section of the Affiliate Web site at www.komendenver.org. All applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, December 2, 2013, using the Susan G. Komen online Grants eManagement System. Questions about Komen Denver’s application or the application process should be directed to Director of Mission Programs Toni Panetta at (303) 744-2088 ext. 305 or tpanetta@komendenver.org." [Source: Susan G. Komen]