Denver Health Insurance Plans in Fort Collins, Colorado
- Denver Health Medical Plan is one of 6 carriers offering marketplace plans in Fort Collins' Rating Area 3 for 2026.
- Colorado's marketplace, Connect for Health Colorado, offers HMO, EPO, and PPO plans, allowing for diverse network choices.
- Subsidies are available for individuals and families earning between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
- Adults with income up to 138% FPL may qualify for Health First Colorado (Medicaid), offering low-cost or free coverage.
- The average uninsured rate in Fort Collins is 5.4%, lower than the national average, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.
Get Your Free Health Insurance Quote
A licensed agent can compare coverage options for you at no cost.
You're all set!
A licensed agent will reach out shortly.
Understanding Your Health Insurance Options in Fort Collins
Fort Collins residents have access to a robust health insurance marketplace. Unlike some other states, Colorado's marketplace offers a variety of plan structures, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. This means you have flexibility in choosing a plan that aligns with your preferred doctors and hospitals, such as Poudre Valley Hospital or Banner Fort Collins Medical Center, both located directly in Fort Collins. When selecting a plan, consider factors like your budget, the amount of care you expect to need, and whether your preferred healthcare providers are in the plan's network. The Connect for Health Colorado marketplace allows you to compare plans side-by-side, making it easier to find coverage that fits your needs.What Financial Assistance Is Available for Fort Collins Residents?
Many Fort Collins residents qualify for financial assistance to help pay for their health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. These subsidies are available through Connect for Health Colorado based on your household income and size. There are two main types of financial assistance:- Premium Tax Credits (PTC): These credits reduce your monthly premium payments. They are available to individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The actual amount depends on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in your area.
- Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR): These subsidies lower your out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles, co-payments, and co-insurance. CSRs are only available with Silver-tier plans and are for those with incomes up to 250% FPL.
Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) Eligibility
Colorado expanded its Medicaid program, known as Health First Colorado, in 2014. This means that more low-income adults in Fort Collins and across the state can qualify for comprehensive health coverage at little to no cost.Eligibility for Health First Colorado:
- Adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are generally eligible. For 2024, this is approximately $20,120 for an individual or $41,400 for a family of four.
Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+):
- Colorado's CHP+ program provides coverage for children and pregnant women who earn too much to qualify for Health First Colorado but cannot afford private insurance.
- Pregnant women with incomes up to 195% FPL can receive comprehensive prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care through CHP+.
- Children in households up to 260% FPL are eligible for CHP+ coverage.
Health Insurance Carriers in Fort Collins
Fort Collins is part of Colorado Rating Area 3, which is a single-county rating area consisting solely of Larimer County. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3 through Connect for Health Colorado, providing a competitive market with diverse options. The confirmed local carriers for Fort Collins in 2026 include:- Cigna
- Denver Health Medical Plan
- HMO Colorado
- Kaiser Permanente
- Select Health
- United Healthcare
Hospitals and Healthcare in Larimer County
Larimer County, home to Fort Collins, has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure. The county serves a population of 367,368, with an uninsured rate of 5.6% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. This includes several acute care hospitals that provide essential services to residents. Major hospitals in Larimer County include:- Poudre Valley Hospital (Fort Collins)
- Banner North Co Medical Center - Loveland Campus (Loveland)
- Medical Center of the Rockies (Loveland)
- Banner Fort Collins Medical Center (Fort Collins)
Making Your Health Insurance Decision in Fort Collins
Choosing the right health insurance plan involves understanding your personal circumstances and the options available. Here's a quick guide:- If your income is below 138% FPL: You likely qualify for Health First Colorado (Medicaid). Apply through Colorado PEAK for comprehensive, low-cost coverage.
- If your income is between 100% and 400% FPL: You are eligible for significant premium tax credits on Connect for Health Colorado. Consider a Silver plan, especially if your income is below 250% FPL, to also benefit from Cost-Sharing Reductions.
- If your income is above 400% FPL: You can still purchase plans through Connect for Health Colorado at full price, or directly from a carrier. Focus on plans that offer the best balance of premium, deductible, and network for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get Denver Health Medical Plan coverage in Fort Collins, Colorado?
Yes, Denver Health Medical Plan is one of 6 carriers offering health insurance plans on Connect for Health Colorado in Rating Area 3, which includes Fort Collins. You can choose from HMO, EPO, and PPO plan types.
What income qualifies for subsidies for health insurance in Fort Collins?
In Colorado, individuals and families earning between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) typically qualify for subsidies to lower their monthly premiums. For 2024, 100% FPL for an individual is $14,580, and 400% FPL is $58,320. These thresholds adjust annually.
What is Health First Colorado, and who qualifies in Fort Collins?
Health First Colorado is the state's Medicaid program. Adults in Fort Collins with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) qualify for comprehensive coverage at little to no cost. For pregnant women, eligibility extends up to 195% FPL through Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+).
Are PPO plans available on the Colorado health insurance marketplace?
Yes, unlike some other states, PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Colorado through Connect for Health Colorado. Shoppers in Fort Collins can choose from HMO, EPO, and PPO structures, including options from carriers like Denver Health Medical Plan and HMO Colorado.