Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) in Colorado
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) are Medicaid programs that help people with disabilities get the care they need at home or in the community instead of in a nursing home or institution.
HCBS services are provided through special Medicaid “waivers.” Each waiver has its own rules about who qualifies and what services are included.
Who can get it?
You may qualify if you:
- Live in Colorado and have Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
- Have a disability or medical need that requires help with daily living
- Meet income and asset limits
- Are approved through an assessment showing you need this level of care
Some waivers are for adults, some for children, and some for people with very specific needs (like brain injury, developmental disabilities, or spinal cord injury).
What services are included?
Each HCBS Waiver provides a unique set of services. HCBS waivers can provide many kinds of support, including:
- Personal care (help with bathing, dressing, eating, mobility)
- Homemaker services (cleaning, laundry, meal prep)
- Respite care (breaks for caregivers)
- Day programs (social, recreational, or skill-building activities)
- Transportation (to community activities)
- Home modifications (like ramps and grab bars)
- Specialized medical equipment and supplies
Things to know
- Some services are limited: Some HCBS waivers have waitlists, like the Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver.
- Reviews and assessments are required: You’ll have regular assessments to stay enrolled.
- Services vary: Not every waiver offers the same supports, so it’s important to find the right fit. Learn more about Waivers for Children and Adults with IDD (link coming soon).
- If you want to know more about other waivers (non-IDD specific), you can learn about these through the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing here.
How do I apply?
- Apply for Health First Colorado (Medicaid): Learn more about Medicaid by clicking here.
- Visit or call your local Case Management Agency (CMA):
Jefferson County Human Services
(Jefferson and Clear Creek Counties)
900 Jefferson County Pkwy, Golden, CO 80401
303-271-1388
A&I Avenues
(Gilpin County)
1665 Coal Creek Dr., Lafayette, CO 80026
303-439-7011
Our Team of Advocates is happy to talk you through this process and point you in the right direction.
