The program’s first year of operation cost tens of millions and has saved wellbeing and lives.
The first year of the Colorado health insurance program offering undocumented immigrants with healthcare is now offering its first annual data tallies.
In the state, every insurer offering coverage must sell to everyone, regardless of documentation status.
Undocumented immigrants can legally obtain health insurance coverage in the state. In its first year of operation, the state paid $73 million to insurers for the program. This does not subtract the amount paid into the program through subsidies but represents only the total paid out for medical expenses. This figure is according to OmniSalud, the option available through the state’s marketplace, said the Colorado Division of Insurance.
OmniSalud explained that every insurer selling health insurance plans in Colorado “has to offer plans with a specific set of lower, fixed costs and make them available to everyone – no matter their documentation status.”
Undocumented residents of Colorado earning less than $20,385 per year may also qualify for free coverage through the SilverEnhanced Savings Plan. This provides them with a range of care coverage, including doctor visits, diabetes medication, generic drugs and maternal care. Undocumented immigrants making more than that threshold may still qualify for subsidized premiums for that medical coverage.
This health insurance strategy is aimed at reducing emergency visits, which are exceptionally expensive.
Connect for Health Colorado data shows that of the 10,416 undocumented immigrants who enrolled in OmniSalud, 9,603 qualified for the coverage with free premiums. The data also showed that the total number of enrollees was also the maximum number of people for which the program was funded this year.
Without coverage, many undocumented immigrants are forced to resort to using emergency room visits for their medical care. This comes with an astounding price tag for the state because federal law states that anyone in an emergency room must be treated, regardless of whether they have the means to pay the medical bills.
By providing coverage for free or at a steep discount, Colorado is aiming to deeply reduce the medical bills it is paying for undocumented immigrants.
Health Insurance FAQ’s
What is the Colorado health insurance program for undocumented immigrants?
This program, known as OmniSalud, is a state initiative that offers health insurance coverage to undocumented immigrants. It provides a range of care coverage including doctor visits, diabetes medication, generic drugs, and maternal care.
What was the cost of the program in its first year of operation?
In its first year, the state paid $73 million to insurers for the program. This figure does not subtract the amount paid into the program through subsidies but represents only the total paid out for medical expenses.
Who can apply for this program?
Every insurer selling health insurance plans in Colorado has to offer plans with lower, fixed costs available to everyone, regardless of their documentation status. Undocumented residents of Colorado earning less than $20,385 per year may qualify for free coverage through the SilverEnhanced Savings Plan. Those making more than that threshold may still qualify for subsidized premiums.
How many people enrolled in the program in its first year?
According to Connect for Health Colorado data, out of 10,416 undocumented immigrants who enrolled in OmniSalud, 9,603 qualified for the coverage with free premiums.
Why was this program introduced?
The program was introduced to reduce the number of emergency room visits by undocumented immigrants, which come with a high cost for the state. Federal law requires anyone in an emergency room to be treated, regardless of whether they can pay the medical bills. By providing coverage, Colorado aims to reduce these costs.
What are the benefits of this program to the state and the individuals?
The program helps to reduce the financial burden on the state from expensive emergency room visits. For the individuals, it provides access to necessary healthcare services, improving their wellbeing and potentially saving lives.
