SearchWhether you are fresh out of school starting your career or you have just landed a job that finally includes full benefits, getting health insurance is a big step into adulthood. It can feel empowering and overwhelming at the same time. There is real peace of mind in knowing you and your family are covered if an accident or illness happens. But once you have coverage, many people ask the same question. What do I actually do with it?
If you are enrolled in a Denver Health Medical Plan, understanding how to use your benefits can help you get the most value from your coverage and take better care of your health.
Know Your Health Plan
When you enroll in a Denver Health Medical Plan, you receive member materials, such as member handbooks/EOCs, and summaries of benefits, that explain how your coverage works. These documents may not be exciting to read, but they are important. They outline what services are covered, which services are not, how much you may pay for care, and which providers and hospitals are part of your network. Use the filter to access your plan's member materials in our resource library.
Your member handbook/EOC and summary of benefits explain key details such as deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and whether referrals are required to see specialists. All major medical plans cover essential health benefits required by the Affordable Care Act, but how those services are delivered and what you pay can vary by plan. That is why it is important to review your specific Denver Health Medical Plan benefits carefully.
Once enrolled, we encourage you to create a MyDHMP portal account, which allows you to check claim status, request ID cards and securely message health plan representatives.
Carry Your Insurance ID Card
Your health plan ID card is proof of coverage. Always carry it with you or keep a digital copy on your phone. Medical providers use the information on the card to bill Denver Health Medical Plan correctly so your claims are processed smoothly.
If you have children, it is a good idea to keep a copy of their insurance card in your diaper bag or backpack. Unexpected doctor visits happen, and having your card ready can save time and stress.
If you lose your member ID card, no worries! You can access it in the MyDHMP portal and save a copy to your mobile phone or print it. You can also request new laminated member ID cards be mailed to you.
Understand the Denver Health Network
Denver Health Medical Plan works with a strong network of doctors, clinics, hospitals, and specialists connected to Denver Health. Using in-network providers helps keep your costs lower because these providers have agreed to set pricing with the plan.
If you receive care outside the network, you may pay more or the service may not be covered at all depending on your plan. Emergencies are generally treated differently, but it is still best to stay in network whenever possible. Knowing which clinics and hospitals are covered before you need care can make a big difference.
Choose a Primary Care Provider
One of the most important steps after enrolling is choosing a primary care provider. Your primary care provider gets to know you, tracks your health over time, and helps coordinate your care. Annual preventive visits are covered under most plans and do not require copays. These visits help catch potential health issues early when they are easier and less expensive to treat. Establishing care with a primary provider can also reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and help you manage chronic conditions more effectively.
Denver Health Medical Plan members have access to a wide range of primary care providers including family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, and women’s health providers. You can find a provider using the online provider directory and choose one that fits your needs and preferences.
Plan Ahead for Specialty Care
If you need to see a specialist such as a podiatrist or dermatologist, review your plan rules first, by referring to your plan handbook/EOC and summary of benefits. Some Denver Health Medical Plan options require a referral from your primary care provider before seeing a specialist. Other plans allow direct access.
Understanding referral requirements ahead of time can prevent delays in care and avoid unexpected bills. It is also important to confirm that both the specialist and the hospital or facility are in network, since not all providers have access to the same hospitals.
Stay Informed and Ask Questions
Having health insurance is an important part of protecting your health and financial well-being. Even one serious medical event can have lasting consequences. Taking time to understand your Denver Health Medical Plan now can help you avoid confusion later.
If you ever have questions about your benefits, coverage, or costs, reach out to Health Plan Services by phone or webform submission to help you navigate your care with confidence. The member services phone number is also found on the back of your member ID card.
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