Protecting Access to Mental Health Care: What You Need to Know

Why This Matters

Proposed budget changes in Colorado could reduce funding for Medicaid and ACA marketplace plans, potentially limiting access to essential mental health services. Many of our clients and community members depend on these programs for therapy, medication, and crisis prevention. These cuts could also impact mental health providers, making it harder to sustain services and support the workforce that delivers care.

Research shows that mental health services help prevent emergency room visits and hospitalizations by providing early and consistent treatment. Limiting access to care doesn’t reduce healthcare costs—it shifts them elsewhere and places a greater burden on individuals and emergency services.

What You Can Do

If you are concerned about these potential changes and want to share your perspective, organizations like the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative recommend calling your legislators. Phone calls and voicemails are one of the most effective ways to make your voice heard.