Community First Choice (CFC): 

 
copy that says what it means overall
 
 
Copy that says Now more individuals can receive support
 
 
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Copy that says What it really means and that more people can access care without needing to qualify for Medicaid waiver programs

 * Still need to meet level-of-care criteria

Community First Choice (CFC) is an exciting new Medicaid program launching in Colorado on July 1, 2025. CFC expands access to attendant services—such as personal care and homemaker services—allowing more individuals to receive necessary support without requiring enrollment in a Medicaid waiver.  

This means more people can access essential care without needing to qualify for programs like SLS, CES, or EBD, though they will still need to meet level-of-care criteria. 

What are Attendant Supports 

Attendant services provide hands-on, in-home support to individuals who need assistance with daily activities to live independently.  

  • This includes help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and mobility.

  • as well as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs), which involve essential tasks like preparing meals, housekeeping, managing medications, and running errands.  

These services are designed to enhance independence and quality of life by ensuring individuals receive the support they need in their home or community setting.

See below for services and supports available under CFC

Triangle chart showing levels of care and indicating that services will move from HCBS waivers to CFC
 

Supports available under CFC (moving out of HCBS waivers)

 

  • Homemaker

  • Personal Care

  • Health Maintenance Activities

  • Acquisition, Maintenance, and Enhancement of Skills (new federally required service)

  • Remote Supports

  • Remote Supports Technology

  • Home Delivered Meals

  • Transition Setup

  • Electronic Monitoring

  • Personal Emergency Response System

  • Medication Reminders

 

How is CFC Funded?

CFC is a state plan option made possible by the Affordable Care Act, and it allows Colorado to enhance access to home and community-based services while benefiting from an increased federal match rate.  

 
Chart showing icons of what the CFC background is and what it will help do
 

This program is an exciting step forward in improving access to long-term services and supports, increasing flexibility in self-directed care options, and strengthening the disability and aging communities in Colorado. 

Visit the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing (HCPF) CFC webpage for details. 

Why CFC Matters for Colorado 

  • Broader Service Access: More people can receive the supports they need without waiver restrictions. 

  • Increased Federal Funding: Colorado will receive an enhanced federal match for these services, improving long-term care funding. 

  • Better Integration: CFC creates a more streamlined, person-centered Medicaid system.

How Does CFC Benefit You?

CFC is designed to improve access, flexibility, and control over attendant care services. Here’s what you need to know:

For Members  

  • Expanded Access: Receive services without needing to be enrolled in a Medicaid waiver. 

  • More Choice & Control: CFC supports expanded self-directed service models such as Consumer-Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS) and In-Home Support Services (IHSS). Members can hire, train, and manage their own attendants.

  • NO LOSS OF SERVICES: If currently receive services through a waiver, will not lose access—services are simply shifting to a new funding and delivery structure. 

For Families & Advocates

  • Simplified Access: No need to navigate complex waiver eligibility criteria to receive essential attendant services.

  • Increased Availability: More people can receive necessary care without waiver limitations.

  • Enhanced Support Networks: CFC’s expanded model means aims to provide more community-based resources and better service continuity.

For Providers 

  • Increased Service Opportunities: Can support more members through state plan benefits; may see increased demand for services under CFC. 

  • Training & Guidance: Operational guidance and mandatory training will be provided to help navigate CFC’s implementation. 

What Changes with CFC?

Key Takeaways 

  • Some services currently available only through Medicaid waivers will move under CFC, but will remain accessible to those who qualify. 

  • No duplication of services—if a member receives a service under a waiver, they cannot receive the same service under CFC. 

  • No age or disability-based differences—services and supports must be offered equitably across all eligible age groups and disabilities. 

Resources + Next Steps

  • Visit the dedicated CFC web page

  • Check out the waiver comparison charts on the CFC Resources web page

  • If you are already receiving case management from DP; your case manager will contact you when it is time to take action

  • If you are not already receiving case management from DP, you will need to go through an intake (add link to get started page or wherever makes sense)

Key Milestones/Timeline

  • July 1, 2025: Official launch of CFC in Colorado

  • Gradual Transition: Current enrollees will transition gradually, ensuring service continuity.

  • Ongoing Outreach: Training, resources, and support will be available for members, families and providers.

More Information

Visit the official CFC web page for details

Contact your case manager for personalized assistance. 

Community First Choice is a transformational step forward for Colorado’s Medicaid system. Stay informed, get involved, and be ready to embrace a more inclusive future for attendant services!