AURORA,
Colo., Aug. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Colorado
Access announced a partnership with EDCare, a national eating
disorder organization, that includes a multi-million dollar
investment to expand residential and intensive outpatient treatment
in Colorado. This partnership
increases treatment and adds current program capacity for adults
and youth with eating disorders who also have Medicaid.
As part of the investment, EDCare is able to hire 41 more
full-time staff members, offer retention bonuses to 85 clinical
employees, as well as invest in increased salaries for 100 current
staff to meet market value all at its Colorado location.
"We know that eating disorders are not just related to physical
health. It's a complex issue that really has both behavioral health
and physical health components," said Dr. Amy Donahue, program medical director of
behavioral health at Colorado Access. "There are few resources
available to those with Medicaid and it was important for us to
work to provide more equitable access through our provider
network."
In Colorado, providers that
focus on the mental health aspects of physical health problems,
such as eating disorders, are lacking. There are only seven
facilities in Colorado that accept
Medicaid, and inpatient services are even less. It is also a
community that is growing. EDCare's patient base in 2018 was
comprised of 30% with Medicaid, and that number has now grown to
50%. According to data provided by the Eating Disorder Foundation,
nearly 10% of the population in Colorado is affected by an eating disorder.
Eating disorders are also the second deadliest mental health
disorder, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa
and Associated Disorders.
"We know that there are many factors that contribute to the
dangers of an eating disorder," said Kim
Travis, chief operating officer at EDCare. "We also know
that any care usually caters to those with higher incomes. Our
partnership with Colorado Access allows for more equal access and
services expansion for all."
Since 2020, Colorado Access has increased their network of
providers by 13%, with 12 new provider specialties added.
About Colorado Access
As the largest and most experienced public sector health plan in
the state, Colorado Access is a nonprofit organization that works
beyond just navigating health services. The company focuses on
meeting members' unique needs by partnering with providers and
community organizations to provide better personalized care through
measurable results. Learn more at http://coaccess.com.
About EDCare
EDCare is a respected provider of evidence-based eating disorder
treatment, committed to empowering individuals on their journey
towards recovery and lasting wellness. With a proven track record
since its founding in 2001, EDCare's comprehensive treatment
programs are delivered by a team of certified professionals
dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of those
affected by eating disorders. EDCare offers free, confidential
assessments and affordable housing options. Learn more at
www.eatingdisorder.care.
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SOURCE Colorado Access