The Health Partnership serving Northwest Colorado is encouraging individuals in need of Medicaid health insurance coverage to reach out for assistance with enrollment that starts Nov. 1.

In Routt County prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 14% of individuals received public insurance, according to Kimberly Fox, Health Partnership health coverage program manager. That number increased to 20% during the public health emergency when the federal government ensured individuals enrolled in Medicaid kept their health coverage even if they had household or income changes.

With the end of the public health emergency and the unwinding of pandemic Medicaid accommodations, that enrollment number dropped to 10%, Fox noted.

Customers can receive assistance regarding any aspect of Medicaid through the Routt County Department of Human Services office at 135 Sixth St. in Steamboat. An on-call case manager is available during business hours in person, via phone at 970-870-5280 or via email at dhsfamed@co.routt.co.us. 

People who are no longer eligible for Medicaid can receive in-person assistance to complete an application and review eligibility for financial assistance on the health exchange through Connect for Health through The Health Partnership.

For more information, call 970-875-3630.