Colorado is facing a critical doctor shortage, a problem that is growing worse each year.
This shortage is making it harder for residents to find care, get timely appointments, or see the doctor of their choice. Understanding the causes of this crisis and knowing your options can help you navigate the healthcare challenges in our state.
The Scope of Colorado’s Doctor Shortage
Across the U.S., the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) projects a national shortage of up to 124,000 physicians by 2034. In Colorado, the problem is even more acute:
- Rural Areas Hit Hardest: Colorado’s rural counties face a severe lack of primary care providers. Over 50% of these areas are classified as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs).
- Urban Demand Growing: Urban areas like Denver and Colorado Springs are also experiencing strain, with long wait times for specialists and primary care physicians.
- Aging Population: With nearly 15% of Colorado residents aged 65 or older, the demand for medical care is increasing rapidly.
What’s Driving Colorado’s Doctor Shortage?
Several factors contribute to the growing provider shortage in Colorado:
- Burnout and Retirements: Many doctors are retiring early or leaving the profession due to burnout, exacerbated by the pandemic.
- Population Growth: Colorado’s population has grown by over 700,000 people in the past decade, increasing the demand for healthcare services.
- Limited Medical Training Programs: Colorado has fewer medical residency programs compared to other states, which limits the number of new doctors entering the workforce.
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How the Doctor Shortage Affects You
For many Colorado residents, the doctor shortage means:
- Long Wait Times: Waiting weeks for an appointment with a specialist or even a primary care provider is becoming the norm.
- Traveling Long Distances: Network restrictions in managed care plans often force patients to travel far to see an in-network doctor.
- Narrow Networks: Plans like HMOs and EPOs have limited networks, making it harder to find a doctor who accepts your insurance. Without adequate Network Access laws, residents may face significant barriers to care.
Your Options to Avoid the Doctor Shortage Problem
Despite the challenges, there are ways to sidestep the effects of Colorado’s doctor shortage. Here are two practical solutions:
1. Join a Health Sharing Plan
Health sharing plans allow you to use your benefits with any doctor, without the restrictions of narrow networks. These plans are:
- Flexible: Choose any doctor or specialist you want, without worrying about in-network or out-of-network restrictions.
- Affordable: Often more cost-effective than traditional health insurance, especially for individuals and families who are generally healthy.
- Accessible. Most health sharing plans let you use their benefits with any doctor. You won’t need to wait weeks for an appointment with their in-network provider. You can use the doctor that best meets your needs, regardless of care network considerations.
2. Enroll in Direct Primary Care Clinic
Direct Primary Care (DPC) clinics offer a different approach to healthcare. For a flat monthly fee, you gain:
- Same-Day or Next-Day Appointments. No more waiting weeks to see a doctor.
- Longer Visit Times. Spend more time discussing your health concerns with your doctor.
- Personalized Care. Build a stronger relationship with your physician, leading to better overall care.
LEARN MORE: Colorado Direct Primary Care 2025 Guide
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Don’t Get Stuck in Restrictive “Obamacare Plans”
Colorado’s doctor shortage, combined with narrow-network insurance plans, leaves many residents underserved.
Instead of sticking with a restrictive and expensive health insurance plan, consider alternatives like health sharing plans or direct primary care. Both options offer more freedom, and better access, and often cost less.
Take Back Control of Your Health Care
If you’re tired of dealing with the limitations of traditional health insurance, ColoHealth can help. Contact a Personal Benefits Manager today for free assistance.
For Further Reading:
Christine Corsini is a health insurance and medical cost sharing expert, and a Personal Benefits Manager at ColoHealth. Her goal is to help people embrace life’s amazing possibilities by staying healthy, saving money, and making the best decisions when it comes to healthcare.
