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

Self-Employed Dental Practice Health Insurance in Severance, Colorado

Self-employed dental professionals in Severance can access individual and family health plans through Connect for Health Colorado.
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 4, which includes Weld County.
Eligible self-employed individuals can deduct 100% of their health insurance premiums from their gross income, reducing taxable income.
Severance residents may qualify for Premium Tax Credits if their income is between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Colorado's Medicaid program, Health First Colorado, covers adults up to 138% FPL, offering a low-cost option for those who qualify.

As a self-employed dental professional in Severance, Colorado, securing comprehensive health insurance is a critical decision for your personal well-being and financial security. Unlike employees who might rely on group benefits, you have the flexibility—and responsibility—to choose a plan that aligns with your specific needs, budget, and the unique demands of running a dental practice. The good news is that Colorado's marketplace, Connect for Health Colorado, offers a range of options, including various plan types and potential financial assistance, to make coverage accessible.

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What Health Insurance Options Are Available for Self-Employed Dental Professionals in Severance?

Self-employed dental practice owners in Severance have several avenues for obtaining health insurance, primarily through Colorado's state-based marketplace, Connect for Health Colorado. This platform allows you to compare plans, check eligibility for subsidies, and enroll in coverage that meets the Affordable Care Act (ACA) standards. On Connect for Health Colorado, you'll find:

Individual and Family Plans: These are comprehensive health plans that cover essential health benefits, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, and preventive services.
Premium Tax Credits (Subsidies): If your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for subsidies that significantly reduce your monthly premium costs.
Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): For those with incomes up to 250% FPL, CSRs can lower your out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, but these are only available with Silver-tier plans.

Beyond the marketplace, you might also consider private off-exchange plans, although these typically do not qualify for ACA subsidies. For those with lower incomes, Colorado's expanded Medicaid program, Health First Colorado, provides another vital safety net.

Understanding Health Plan Types in Severance, Colorado

When selecting a health plan for your dental practice in Severance, it's important to understand the different structures available. In Colorado, marketplace shoppers can choose from a robust selection of plan types, including PPOs.

Plan Type	Description	Network Flexibility	Referral Requirement
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)	Typically offers lower premiums with a defined network of doctors and hospitals. You must choose a Primary Care Provider (PCP) within the network.	Limited to network providers (except emergencies).	Usually required for specialists.
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO)	Similar to an HMO but generally does not require a PCP referral for specialists. Still limited to a specific network of providers.	Limited to network providers (except emergencies).	No referral usually needed.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)	Offers the most flexibility, allowing you to see out-of-network providers, though at a higher cost. You do not need a PCP referral. PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Colorado.	Highest flexibility; can see out-of-network providers.	No referral needed.

The availability of PPO plans on Connect for Health Colorado, offered by carriers like Denver Health Medical Plan and HMO Colorado, provides self-employed individuals in Severance with greater choice and flexibility in provider networks.

Navigating Subsidies and Medicaid for Self-Employed Individuals

For many self-employed dental professionals, financial assistance can make health insurance significantly more affordable. Colorado has expanded its Medicaid program and offers robust subsidy options. If your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) is:

Below 138% FPL: You will likely qualify for Health First Colorado, Colorado's Medicaid program. This provides comprehensive coverage at little to no cost. Colorado expanded Medicaid in 2014, so there is no "coverage gap" for adults with incomes in this range.
Between 100% and 400% FPL: You may be eligible for Premium Tax Credits (PTCs) to lower your monthly premiums on Connect for Health Colorado. The exact amount depends on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark plan in your area.
Above 400% FPL: While you won't qualify for PTCs, you can still purchase a comprehensive health plan through Connect for Health Colorado or directly from a carrier.

It's crucial to accurately estimate your income, as this directly impacts your eligibility for financial assistance. Changes in income throughout the year should be reported to Connect for Health Colorado to adjust your subsidies. Severance, Colorado, located in Weld County, is part of Colorado Rating Area 4. The city has a population of 10,130 with a median income of $124,572, and an impressively low uninsured rate of 2.2% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. Weld County as a whole, with a population of 350,396 and an uninsured rate of 8.0%, is served by hospitals such as Banner North Colorado Medical Center and Uchealth Greeley Hospital, both located in Greeley.

Health Insurance Carriers in Severance

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 4, which includes Severance and all of Weld County. These carriers provide a range of plan types and networks to choose from:

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

When reviewing plans, pay close attention to each carrier's network to ensure your preferred doctors, specialists, or local hospitals like Banner North Colorado Medical Center are included.

Deducting Health Insurance Premiums as a Self-Employed Dental Professional

One significant benefit for self-employed individuals is the ability to deduct health insurance premiums. If you are a self-employed dental professional and are not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan (either your own or your spouse's), you can generally deduct 100% of the premiums you pay for medical, dental, and qualified long-term care insurance. This "self-employed health insurance deduction" is an above-the-line deduction, meaning it reduces your adjusted gross income (AGI), which can lead to a lower tax liability. This deduction applies whether you purchase your plan through Connect for Health Colorado or off-exchange. Always consult with a qualified tax professional to understand how this deduction applies to your specific financial situation.

Next Steps: Choosing Your Health Plan in Severance

Making an informed decision about health insurance for your self-employed dental practice involves evaluating your healthcare needs, budget, and eligibility for financial assistance.

Assess Your Needs: Consider your typical medical expenses, any ongoing prescriptions, and whether you prefer a broad network (PPO) or are comfortable with a more restricted one (HMO/EPO).
Estimate Your Income: Use your projected 2026 income to determine if you qualify for Premium Tax Credits or Health First Colorado.
Compare Plans on Connect for Health Colorado: Review the available plans from carriers like Cigna, Kaiser Permanente, and United Healthcare, comparing premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, and networks.
Consider the Self-Employed Deduction: Factor in the tax benefits of deducting your premiums when calculating your true cost of coverage.
Seek Expert Guidance: A licensed health insurance agent specializing in Colorado's market can provide personalized advice, help you compare plans, and assist with the enrollment process at no additional cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deduct my health insurance premiums as a self-employed dental professional?

Yes, if you are self-employed and not eligible to participate in an employer-sponsored health plan, you can generally deduct 100% of your health insurance premiums from your gross income. This includes premiums for medical, dental, and long-term care insurance. Consult with a tax professional for specific advice related to your situation.

What types of health plans are available for self-employed individuals in Severance?

In Severance, you can choose from various plan types on Connect for Health Colorado, the state's marketplace. These include Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO), and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. PPO plans ARE available on-exchange in Colorado, offering more flexibility in choosing providers.

What are the income limits for subsidies if I'm self-employed in Severance?

For 2026, subsidies (Premium Tax Credits) are available to eligible individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Self-employed individuals in Severance with household incomes within this range may qualify for significant financial assistance to lower their monthly premiums on Connect for Health Colorado.

How do I choose a health plan that covers my dental practice's specific needs?

When selecting a plan, consider factors like network size and whether your preferred doctors or specialists are included, the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum, and the monthly premium. For dental professionals, reviewing the included dental benefits or considering a separate dental plan is also crucial. An independent licensed agent can help compare options tailored to your income and healthcare needs.

What is Health First Colorado, and can I qualify as self-employed?

Health First Colorado is Colorado's Medicaid program. If your self-employed income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may qualify for comprehensive, low-cost or no-cost health coverage through this program. Colorado expanded Medicaid in 2014, making it available to many low-income adults.