These videos give an overview of the various Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) available in Colorado for providers who want to learn how to start or operate an HCBS agency in the state. Each video explains the purpose of the service, provider requirements, licensing process, and how the program functions in Colorado. Use these videos to better understand the responsibilities, standards, and steps involved in becoming or working with approved HCBS providers in Colorado. Explore each section to find the service that best matches your goals or area of interest.
Respite Care
Respite Care Services in Colorado offer short-term relief to primary caregivers by providing temporary care and supervision for individuals with disabilities, complex health needs, or age-related challenges. These services are available through Colorado Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) waiver, Supported Living Services (SLS) waiver, Children’s Extensive Support (CES) waiver, and others.
Residential Care
Residential Services in Colorado provide 24-hour or part-time support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in licensed or certified community-based living settings. These services are delivered under the Home and Community-Based Services for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (HCBS-DD) Waiver, administered by the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) and coordinated through Case Management Agencies (CMAs) and Community-Centered Boards (CCBs).
Supported Employment
Supported Employment Services in Colorado assist individuals with disabilities in finding, obtaining, and maintaining meaningful, competitive employment in integrated community settings. These services are authorized under Colorado’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs and the Colorado Medicaid system, promoting independence, financial self-sufficiency, and full community participation.
Personal Care
Personal Care Services in Colorado support individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, or age-related limitations by providing non-medical assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). These services are offered through Colorado Medicaid, particularly under Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) waiver, Brain Injury (BI) waiver, and Community Mental Health Supports (CMHS) waiver.
Durable Medical Equipment
Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Services in Colorado provide individuals with long-term medical conditions or disabilities access to reusable equipment that supports daily living and medical needs at home. These services are reimbursed under the Colorado Medicaid State Plan, as well as certain Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers such as the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD), Supported Living Services (SLS), and Children’s Extensive Support (CES) waivers. DME must be medically necessary, prescribed by a physician, and approved by Health First Colorado (Medicaid).
Skilled Nursing
Nursing Services in Colorado provide essential medical care and oversight to individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or complex medical needs. These services are delivered in-home or community-based settings and are covered under Colorado Medicaid, including Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers such as the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) waiver, the Brain Injury (BI) waiver, and Children’s HCBS Waivers.
Habilitation Services
Day Habilitation Services in Colorado support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by offering structured daytime programs that focus on life skills development, socialization, and increased independence. These services are authorized under the Home and Community-Based Services for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (HCBS-DD) Waiver and the Supported Living Services (SLS) Waiver, overseen by the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF).
Adult Health Services
Adult Day Services in Colorado offer structured, non-residential programs that provide supervision, assistance with daily living, and social engagement for adults who are elderly or have disabilities. These services are reimbursed under Colorado’s Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) waiver and the Brain Injury (BI) waiver.
Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology (AT) Services in Colorado provide individuals with disabilities access to specialized devices, tools, and training to support daily living, mobility, communication, and safety. These services are available through select Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including the Supported Living Services (SLS) waiver, Children’s Extensive Support (CES) waiver, and Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver.
Behavioral Health
Behavioral Health Services in Colorado support individuals with mental health needs, behavioral challenges, or co-occurring intellectual/developmental disabilities. These services are funded through Colorado Medicaid, the Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), and specific Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, such as the Children’s Extensive Support (CES) waiver, Supported Living Services (SLS) waiver, and Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver.
Home Modification
Home Modification Services in Colorado provide physical changes to a person’s primary residence to promote independent living, reduce safety risks, and support aging or disability-related needs. These services are offered through Colorado Medicaid's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD), Supported Living Services (SLS), and Children’s Extensive Support (CES) waivers. All modifications must be medically necessary, cost-effective, and included in the participant’s Service Plan.
Supported Living
Supported Living Services (SLS) in Colorado offer individualized assistance to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who live independently or with family. These services are authorized under the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) SLS Waiver, administered by the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) and coordinated through Case Management Agencies (CMAs).
Homemaker Services
Homemaker Services in Colorado provide assistance with essential household tasks to individuals who are unable to safely maintain their homes due to age, disability, or chronic illness. These services are authorized under Colorado Medicaid's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) waiver, Brain Injury (BI) waiver, and Community Mental Health Supports (CMHS) waiver.
Case Management
Case Management Services in Colorado help individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, and age-related needs access and coordinate Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and other Medicaid supports. Under Colorado’s Medicaid redesign, Case Management is transitioning to a conflict-free model, meaning individuals receiving services must work with case managers not affiliated with direct service providers. Services are authorized by the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) and delivered through Case Management Agencies (CMAs).
Transportation Assistance
Transportation Assistance Services in Colorado provide non-medical, non-emergency transportation for individuals enrolled in Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These services help ensure that participants can access medical appointments, employment, day programs, community activities, and essential errands, supporting independence and community integration.
Home Health
Home Health Services in Colorado provide medical, rehabilitative, and personal care to individuals recovering from illness, managing chronic conditions, or requiring support to avoid institutional placement. These services are reimbursed under the Colorado Medicaid State Plan and may also be accessed through certain Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including the Elderly, Blind, and Disabled (EBD) waiver and Children’s HCBS Waivers.
Meal and Nutrition
Meal and Nutrition Services in Colorado ensure that individuals enrolled in Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs have access to safe, nutritious meals that meet their health and personal needs. These services promote wellness, prevent malnutrition, and support individuals’ ability to remain in their homes and communities.