Colorado
Colorado combines 12-month postpartum Health First Colorado and CHP+ coverage, Cover All Coloradans for qualifying pregnant people regardless of immigration status, statewide FAMLI paid leave, a separate Neonatal Care Leave beginning in 2026, Medicaid doula coverage, behavioral-health benefits delivered through four regional organizations, the Nurse Home Visitor Program, Prenatal Plus, Special Connections, and a regional provider and navigation system. Health coverage, immigration-related pathways, employment leave, regional networks, transportation, and what is actually available where you live all stay separate here — and the immigration pathway has scheduled changes in October 2026 and January 2027.
Start with your question
Health Coverage After Birth
Will I still have health coverage after my baby is born?
Health First Colorado and CHP+ cover you for 12 months after your pregnancy ends, once the pregnancy is reported. A few pregnancy-specific visit benefits have their own shorter 60-day window.
Coverage Regardless of Immigration Status
Can I get covered if my immigration status usually blocks Medicaid?
Under Cover All Coloradans, qualifying pregnant people can get pregnancy and postpartum coverage regardless of immigration status, including the 12-month postpartum period. Federal and state changes are scheduled, so check before relying on it.
Work & Leave
Can I take time off, and will I be paid?
FAMLI pays part of your wages for up to 12 weeks a year, with up to 4 more for qualifying pregnancy or childbirth complications. Your job is protected if you have worked for your employer at least 180 days.
NICU & Neonatal Leave
What if my newborn needs intensive care?
From January 1, 2026 Colorado has a separate paid leave bank of up to 12 weeks for parents whose newborn needs NICU or higher-level intensive care — so bonding leave stays intact for after discharge.
Doula Support
Can I have a doula, and will it be paid for?
Health First Colorado covers doula support with a referral, including postpartum-only support, with no copay for pregnant and postpartum members. A combined benefit limit applies across doulas.
Mental & Emotional Health
Where do I get help if I am struggling after birth?
Health First Colorado covers mental-health and substance-use treatment, and since July 1, 2025 four regional organizations coordinate care and maintain the behavioral-health networks you use.
Home & Community Support
Can someone support me at home instead of another clinic trip?
The Nurse Home Visitor Program serves eligible first-time mothers with nurse visits through the child's second birthday, subject to local availability.
Enhanced Perinatal Support
Who helps me with nutrition, coping, and referrals along the way?
Prenatal Plus adds a care coordinator, a registered dietitian, and a mental-health professional for at-risk pregnant members, through pregnancy and 60 days after birth — but you must enroll while pregnant.
Substance-Use Support
Is there support built around pregnancy if I am in treatment?
Special Connections gives pregnancy and postpartum-specific substance-use support — case management, counseling, and health education — through your child's first year.
Using Your Benefits
I have coverage — how do I actually get an appointment, a ride, or an interpreter?
Your regional organization coordinates your care and can help find providers. Non-emergent medical transportation, a 24/7 nurse advice line, an Ombudsman, and a 60-day eligibility appeal window are the practical tools.
Nothing here is legal, medical, or benefits advice, and policy changes. Confirm current rules with the agency or your health plan. Each profile shows the date it was last verified.