Home Care Resources for Denver Families

Colorado home health agencies are licensed by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). There are two license classes that affect what services an agency can provide.

• Class A — Skilled Nursing Agency

  Can provide skilled nursing (RN/LPN), physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical social services. Accepts Medicare/Medicaid.

• Class B — Personal Care Agency

  Provides non-medical in-home care: bathing, dressing, meal prep, companionship, and light housekeeping. Typically private pay or long-term care insurance.

Home health care can be covered by several payer sources. Understanding your options is the first step to getting affordable care.

• Medicare Part A

  Covers skilled home health after a qualifying hospital or skilled nursing facility stay. Must be homebound and need skilled care.

• Medicare Part B

  Covers skilled nursing and therapy without a hospital stay requirement, as long as you are homebound and a physician orders the care.

• Medicaid / HCBS Waivers

  Colorado Medicaid and Home and Community Based Services waivers cover home health for eligible low-income residents. Check Colorado HCBS Waiver eligibility.

• Long-Term Care Insurance

  Policies vary widely. Review your policy for home health benefit triggers, elimination periods, and daily benefit amounts.

• Private Pay

  Rates in Denver typically range from $25–$65/hour for personal care and $65–$120/hour for skilled nursing. Most agencies provide free consultations.

Finding the right home health agency requires more than comparing prices. Here are the key factors to evaluate.

• Verify CDPHE Licensure

  All Colorado home health agencies must be licensed. Verify license status on the CDPHE website or look for the "Verified" badge on listings.

• Match License Class to Needs

  If your loved one needs IV therapy, wound care, or post-surgical recovery, you need a Class A agency. Personal care needs can be met by Class A or B.

• Check Reviews

  Read verified reviews from families who received similar care. Look for patterns in responsiveness, caregiver consistency, and communication.

• Ask About Staffing

  Ask if caregivers are employees (with background checks, insurance, and training) or independent contractors. Employees typically offer more protection.

• Confirm Insurance Accepted

  Not all agencies accept Medicare or Medicaid. Verify coverage before scheduling an assessment.