Children’s Dental, Vision and Health Resources in Denver
As a parent in Denver, finding information and resources for your child's dental and physical health can be overwhelming. There are city, state and county programs, along with other organizations that offer various services and support. This article explains the basics of the available resources and provides links and contact information.
HOSPITALS
Children's Hospital Colorado is the top pediatric hospital in the region. They have been providing care to children in the Denver area for over 100 years and offer a wide range of services, from routine checkups to specialized care for complex medical conditions. The hospital has several locations throughout the Denver area, including Aurora, Broomfield, and Highlands Ranch. They also have a 24/7 pediatric urgent care center in Parker, Colorado. Children's Hospital Colorado is a leader in pediatric research and is dedicated to improving the health of children through innovative treatments and therapies.
Address: 13123 E 16th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045
Telephone: (720) 777-1234
Website: childrenscolorado.org
Denver Health is a comprehensive healthcare system that provides medical care to the Denver community, including children. They offer pediatric primary care and behavioral health services for children. Denver Health also has a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center, which is the highest level of trauma care available for children. Their pediatric specialists provide care for a wide range of medical conditions, including asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Address: 777 Bannock St, Denver, CO 80204
Emergency Room: Open 24 hours
Telephone: (303) 436-6000
Website: denverhealth.org
Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children is a pediatric hospital located in Denver that provides specialized care for children. Their team of pediatric specialists includes experts in cardiology, gastroenterology, neurology, and more. The hospital also has a dedicated pediatric emergency department that is staffed by board-certified pediatric emergency physicians. Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children is part of the HealthONE network of hospitals, which includes several other hospitals in the Denver area.
Address: 2001 High St, Denver, CO 80205
Telephone: (720) 754-1000
Website: rockymountainhospitalforchildren.org
ORGANIZATIONS
The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DPHE) provides a variety of resources and programs for children's health. They offer immunization clinics, health screenings, and health education programs for children and families. The DPHE also has a Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) program, which provides low-cost health insurance to children and pregnant women who meet certain income requirements.
Address: 101 W Colfax Ave, Suite 800 Denver, CO 80202
Phone: 720-865-5365
Website: denvergov.org
Denver Public Schools (DPS) has several programs and resources available to support the health and well-being of students. They have a school-based health center program that provides medical, dental, and behavioral health services to students. DPS also has a comprehensive school wellness policy that includes guidelines for healthy food and beverage options, physical activity, and health education.
Phone: 720-423-1410
Website: dpsk12.org
The Children's Immunization Coalition is a nonprofit organization that works to improve childhood immunization rates in Colorado. They provide education and resources for parents and healthcare providers on the importance of childhood immunizations. The coalition also offers free immunization clinics throughout the Denver area.
Address: 13123 E. 16th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045
Phone: 720-777-5340
Website: immunizecolorado.org
INSURANCE & MEDICAID FOR CHILDREN
CHP+ is a public low-cost health insurance program specifically designed for certain children and pregnant women in Denver and throughout Colorado. It serves as a valuable option for individuals who earn too much to qualify for Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid program), but still fall short of being able to afford private health insurance.
To be eligible for CHP+, applicants must meet the following criteria: they should be low-income children aged 18 and younger, or low-income pregnant women. Additionally, income level requirements must be met to qualify (refer to the CHP+ program information page for specific income levels, website link below).
CHP+ offers a range of top benefits, including regular checkups, immunizations, prescription medicine, eyeglasses, and PEDIATRIC dental care. The program aims to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to those who qualify. Co-pays and enrollment fees for CHP+ vary depending on specific circumstances, and detailed information can be found on the program's information page (link below).
Phone: 1-800-359-1991
Website: hcpf.colorado.gov
Health First Colorado, previously known as Colorado Medicaid, is a crucial public health insurance program that provides comprehensive healthcare coverage to eligible low-income individuals, children, and families in Colorado. Administered by the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, Health First Colorado ensures that eligible participants have access to essential medical and dental services. The program covers a wide range of healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medications, preventive care, behavioral health services, and more.
One of the significant benefits of Health First Colorado is its commitment to promoting equitable access to quality healthcare. The program aims to improve health outcomes for individuals and families by addressing health disparities and providing affordable coverage to those who may not have access to private insurance. Health First Colorado serves as a lifeline for low-income Coloradans, providing them with the necessary healthcare resources and support they need to maintain their well-being and manage their health conditions. It plays a vital role in ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status, can receive essential medical care and lead healthier lives.
Address: 1570 Grant Street, Denver CO 80203
Phone: 1-800-221-3943
Website: hcpf.colorado.gov
CHILDREN'S VISION CARE RESOURCES
When it comes to vision care for kids in Denver, there are several resources available to ensure that children maintain healthy eyesight and receive necessary vision correction if needed.
According to the American Optometric Association, vision screenings have limitations and cannot provide a definitive diagnosis for eye or vision issues. Instead, they serve as an initial assessment that suggests the possibility of further evaluation. It is important to note that vision screenings have the potential to overlook up to 60% of children with vision problems. That's why it is important for your child to have a complete eye exam, performed by a licensed optometrist at least once a year.
Denver Public Schools (DPS) often collaborates with local vision care providers to offer vision screenings for students. These screenings help identify children who may need further evaluation or treatment for vision problems. Additionally, DPS may connect families with resources for discounted or free eyeglasses if needed.
Former Denver Bronco great, Von Miller, created Von's Vision to provide free vision care and glasses for uninsured children. Adventure Vision and Academy Kids host Von's Locker Days at various locations throughout Colorado. These events are for children who have a prescription to choose a pair of glasses, free of charge. For upcoming events, click here.
Address: 1407 W 84th Ave., Denver, CO 80260
Phone: 720-214-4746
Website: kidsdentalvisioncare.com
PEDIATRIC DENTAL CARE RESOURCES
Denver offers a range of dental care resources specifically tailored to children, ensuring that they receive essential oral health services and maintain a healthy smile.
It is essential for parents and caregivers to prioritize regular dental check-ups and oral hygiene practices for children. By utilizing these dental care resources in Denver, parents can help their children maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental problems in the future.
Here are some key dental care resources for children in Denver:
Denver Public Schools (DPS) collaborate with dental providers and community organizations to offer school-based dental programs. These programs often include dental screenings, preventive treatments, and oral health education for students. They help identify potential dental issues early on and provide necessary referrals for follow-up care.
Phone: 720-423-1410
Website: dpsk12.org
Every year, over 300,000 children receive invaluable dental care through the dedicated efforts of approximately 6,500 dentists and 30,000 dental team members who selflessly volunteer their time at local Give Kids A Smile events. These events are a community service of Adventure Dental Denver. The events provide free oral health education, screenings, as well as preventive and restorative treatments to uninsured children. To find a Give Kids a Smile event in Denver, click here.
Address: 1407 W 84th Ave., Denver, CO 80260
Phone: 720-214-4746
Website: kidsdentalvisioncare.com
Dental Lifeline Network is a nonprofit organization that offers dental care to vulnerable populations, including children from low-income families. Through their Donated Dental Services (DDS) program, they connect eligible individuals with volunteer dentists who provide free or reduced-cost dental treatments. This program helps ensure that children in need have access to essential dental care services.
Address: 1800 15th Street, Suite 100 Denver, CO 80202
Website: dentallifeline.org
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Children's Medicaid Dentists in the Denver Metro Area:
Denver
Dr. Fazia Baig
1407 W 84th Ave
Denver, CO 80260
Aurora
Dr. Rita Taylor
15121 E Mississippi Ave
Aurora, CO 80012
Dr. Archanna Mahajan
9333 E Colfax Ave
Aurora, CO 80010
Commerce City
Dr. Inderraj Dhillon
6075 Parkway Dr
Commerce City, CO 80022
Lakewood
Dr. Julie Devlin
6695 W Colfax Ave
Lakewood, CO 80214
Children's Medicaid Optometrist in the Denver Metro Area
Denver
Dr. Lindsey Champagne
1407 W 84th Ave
Denver, CO 80260
Aurora
Dr. Melvin Peterson Jr.
15121 E Mississippi Ave
Aurora, CO 80012
Dr. Thanh Le
9333 E Colfax Ave
Aurora, CO 80010
Commerce City
Dr. Himel
6075 Parkway Dr
Commerce City, CO 80022
Lakewood
Dr. Christina Tran
6695 W Colfax Ave
Lakewood, CO 80214