If you’re exploring health insurance options in Colorado — especially alongside or compared to Anthem BCBS plans — understanding the Denver Health Medical Plan can help you decide what’s right for you and your family. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Denver Health Medical Plan, including how it works, its benefits, eligibility, costs, and how it compares to other plans in Colorado.
What Is the Denver Health Medical Plan?
The Denver Health Medical Plan is a nonprofit health insurance provider based in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 1997, DHMP was created to serve the local community with affordable and accessible health coverage. Unlike traditional profit-driven insurers, DHMP reinvests its revenues into improving care and supporting members’ overall health and wellness.
DHMP offers a range of coverage options — including individual and family plans — and has become a trusted option for many Colorado residents, with more than 100,000 members enrolled.
How Does Denver Health Medical Plan Work?
1. A Local, Community-Focused Health Plan
The Denver Health Medical Plan is structured around providing care through its network of providers, often centered on Denver Health Medical Center and affiliated facilities. This means members usually receive care from local doctors and specialists within the DHMP network.
DHMP operates primarily as an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) with network-based care. Members typically select a Primary Care Provider (PCP) who coordinates their health services and referrals. There are also POS (Point of Service) options, especially for employer plans, which offer broader network access while still providing coordinated care.
2. Preventive and Routine Coverage
Preventive services like annual checkups, immunizations, prenatal care, and cancer screenings are covered at no additional charge under all DHMP plans — a key benefit for members aiming to stay healthy while minimizing out-of-pocket costs.
Denver Health Medical Plan Coverage Options
DHMP offers a variety of coverage tiers, including plans that meet the Affordable Care Act (ACA) standards — often referred to in Colorado as Colorado Option plans. These include Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers, each with different levels of deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, and cost-sharing structures.
Key Benefits by Tier
- Bronze Plans: Lower monthly premiums with higher deductibles. These plans can be suitable for younger or healthier individuals who want basic protection at a lower up-front cost.
- Silver Plans: A balance between monthly premiums and cost-sharing, ideal for families or individuals who want more predictable health costs throughout the year.
- Gold Plans: Higher monthly premiums in exchange for lower deductibles and smaller coinsurance amounts, perfect for those who expect frequent medical visits and want lower cost at the point of care.
All tiers include preventive care at no cost and varying degrees of coverage for doctor visits, specialist care, emergency services, and prescription drugs.
Benefits of Choosing Denver Health Medical Plan
1. Nonprofit, Community-Driven Mission
As a nonprofit organization, the Denver Health Medical Plan places emphasis on community well-being and member health outcomes, rather than shareholder profits. This often translates to member-focused programs and support resources.
2. Comprehensive Health Coverage
DHMP provides a full suite of health benefits — including primary care, specialty care, hospital services, mental health, and urgent care — ensuring members have access to a wide range of services when they need them.
3. Telehealth and NurseLine Support
Members can access convenient telehealth services and a 24/7 NurseLine, giving them medically-trained support at any time — perfect for questions about symptoms, care options, or deciding if an in-person visit is necessary.
4. Member Support Tools
DHMP offers digital tools like the MyDHMP Member Portal and mobile app, where members can manage benefits, check claims, communicate with plan representatives, and access educational materials with ease.
Who Is Eligible for the Denver Health Medical Plan?
Eligibility for the Denver Health Medical Plan depends on the type of coverage you’re seeking:
- Individual & Family Plans: Available to Colorado residents during open enrollment or qualifying special enrollment periods.
- Medicaid Plans: DHMP also offers coverage through Medicaid programs for qualifying individuals and families.
- Employer Sponsored Plans: Some employers choose DHMP options for their employees, providing group coverage with multiple plan choices.
Special Enrollment Periods may be available if you experience a qualifying life event like losing other coverage, having a child, or moving to Colorado.
How DHMP Compares to Other Colorado Health Plans (Like Anthem BCBS)
While Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (Anthem BCBS) is one of the more widespread insurers in Colorado — with a broad provider network and multiple plan types — DHMP offers a more localized network focused on Denver Health’s facilities and associated providers.
Here’s how they differ:
| Feature | Denver Health Medical Plan | Anthem BCBS |
| Network Type | Primarily Denver Health & partners | Broader statewide and national network |
| Plan Structure | HMO / POS | HMO / PPO / EPO |
| Mission | Community nonprofit | Large national insurer |
| Ideal For | Local Denver residents | Individuals wanting wide provider choice |
DHMP can be a cost-effective choice for residents with providers in its network, but it’s important to verify that your preferred doctors and hospitals participate — especially if you value broader flexibility.
Understanding Costs: Premiums, Deductibles, and Out-of-Pocket
Like other ACA-compliant plans, Denver Health Medical Plan costs vary based on tier and level of coverage. Here’s how costs typically work:
- Premium: Monthly amount you pay to maintain coverage.
- Deductible: Amount you must pay before major plan benefits kick in.
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The most you’ll pay in a year for covered medical services.
Bronze plans usually come with lower premiums and higher deductibles, while Gold plans have higher premiums and lower cost-sharing once care is received. Preventive care is covered in all plans without cost-sharing.
It’s important to consider both your monthly budget and expected health care needs when selecting a plan. For example, individuals with chronic conditions or frequent doctor visits may save money with lower out-of-pocket costs even if their premiums are slightly higher.
How to Enroll in Denver Health Medical Plan
Enrollment in the Denver Health Medical Plan can be completed:
- Through the Colorado Health Insurance Marketplace (Connect for Health Colorado) during open enrollment.
- During a Special Enrollment Period due to life changes.
- Directly through the Denver Health Medical Plan enrollment portal.
When enrolling, you’ll need basic information like your income, household size, and Colorado residency details to determine eligibility and potential subsidy amounts.
Tips for Choosing the Right Plan
- Compare Provider Networks: Before enrolling, confirm your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network.
- Evaluate Prescription Coverage: Review how each plan covers your medications.
- Review Your Health Needs: Consider annual checkups, specialist visits, and potential emergencies when comparing deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.
- Check for Financial Assistance: If affordability is a concern, find out if subsidies or financial help are available.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Choosing the right health insurance plan is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your health and financial well-being. The Denver Health Medical Plan offers comprehensive, community-oriented coverage that can be an excellent option — especially if your care network includes Denver Health providers.
However, if you’re seeking plans with wider networks or different plan structures, such as Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Colorado, it’s worth comparing side-by-side to find the best fit for your needs.
Ready to explore your options and find the health insurance plan that works for you? Visit https://colohealth.com/anthem-bcbs/ today to compare plans, get personalized guidance, and start your enrollment journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Denver Health Medical Plan available statewide?
No — DHMP is designed primarily for the Denver metro area, with network access centered around Denver Health facilities. Coverage may be limited compared to some statewide plans.
2. Can I use out-of-network providers with the Denver Health Medical Plan?
Typically, DHMP plans require you to use in-network providers for full coverage, though some employer POS options may offer limited out-of-network access with higher costs.
3. How does Denver Health Medical Plan compare with Anthem BCBS?
DHMP tends to focus on local care with nonprofit priorities and a smaller network, while Anthem BCBS offers broader provider options and multiple plan types like PPOs and EPOs. Your choice should depend on your preferred providers and coverage needs
