Updated July 2026 · ColoradoPlanFinder.com — Licensed Health Insurance Producer (NPN #21249133)

Health Insurance for Childcare Providers & Contractors in Broomfield County, Colorado

What Health Insurance Options Are Available for Contractors in Broomfield County?

1. Connect for Health Colorado (ACA Marketplace): This is the primary source for individual and family health insurance plans, where you can apply for subsidies (Premium Tax Credits) to lower your monthly premiums and cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Colorado's marketplace offers a variety of plan types, including HMO, EPO, and PPO options, allowing you to choose based on network preferences and cost.
2. Health First Colorado (Medicaid): Colorado expanded Medicaid in 2014. If your household income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for Health First Colorado, which provides comprehensive health coverage at little to no cost.
3. Directly from a Carrier (Off-Marketplace): You can purchase plans directly from health insurance companies outside of Connect for Health Colorado. While these plans are ACA-compliant, they do not offer subsidies, meaning you'll pay the full premium yourself. This option is generally pursued by individuals who do not qualify for subsidies or prefer a specific plan not offered on the exchange.

How Do ACA Subsidies Work for Self-Employed Individuals?

In Colorado, there is no income cap for subsidies, meaning even higher-income individuals may qualify for some assistance if the cost of a benchmark plan exceeds a certain percentage of their income. Generally:

• If your income is between 138% and 400% FPL, you will likely qualify for substantial Premium Tax Credits.
• If your income is above 400% FPL, you may still receive some subsidy, especially if you are older or live in an area with high premium costs.

Additionally, individuals with incomes up to 250% FPL may qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) when they enroll in a Silver-tier plan. CSRs reduce your deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums, making healthcare more affordable when you need it.

For childcare providers and contractors, accurately estimating your annual income can be challenging due to fluctuating contracts and self-employment income. It's important to update your income estimate with Connect for Health Colorado if it changes significantly throughout the year to avoid discrepancies at tax time.

Understanding Plan Types and Local Provider Networks in Broomfield County

• HMO (Health Maintenance Organization): Typically offers lower premiums but requires you to choose a Primary Care Provider (PCP) within the network and get referrals for specialists. Services are generally covered only within the HMO's network, except for emergencies.
• EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization): Similar to an HMO in that it covers services only within its network (except emergencies), but you usually don't need a referral to see a specialist.
• PPO (Preferred Provider Organization): Offers the most flexibility. You don't need a PCP or referrals to see specialists, and you can see out-of-network providers for a higher cost. PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Colorado, offered by carriers like Denver Health Medical Plan and HMO Colorado, among others.

Broomfield County, part of Rating Area 1, which covers Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, Jefferson counties, is served by Centura Health-st Anthony North Health Campus in Westminster. When choosing a plan, consider whether your preferred doctors or any specialists you regularly see are in the plan's network. This is especially important for childcare providers who might prioritize pediatric care for their own families.

Health Insurance Carriers in Broomfield County

• Cigna
• Denver Health Medical Plan
• HMO Colorado
• Kaiser Permanente
• Select Health
• United Healthcare

Steps to Enroll in Health Insurance as a Contractor

Enrolling in a health insurance plan through Connect for Health Colorado involves a few key steps:

1. Estimate Your Income: As a self-employed individual, accurately estimate your net income (gross income minus business expenses) for the upcoming year. This is crucial for determining your subsidy eligibility.
2. Gather Information: You'll need personal information for all household members, including social security numbers, immigration documents, and details about any current health coverage.
3. Visit Connect for Health Colorado: Go to the official marketplace website or work with a licensed health insurance producer. You'll create an account and fill out an application.
4. Compare Plans: Review the available plans from carriers like Kaiser Permanente, Cigna, and United Healthcare, considering premiums, deductibles, co-pays, out-of-pocket maximums, and network providers.
5. Enroll: Select the plan that best fits your needs and budget, and complete the enrollment process.

Broomfield County residents can also apply for Health First Colorado through Colorado PEAK (colorado.gov/PEAK) if their income falls within the Medicaid expansion guidelines (up to 138% FPL). For pregnant women, Colorado's Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) covers individuals with income up to 195% FPL, providing comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Your Free Quote