Bill > SB017

This bill establishes a Pediatric Primary Care Practice Program in Colorado designed to support early childhood health by integrating specialized professionals into pediatric medical practices. The program aims to provide funding and support for medical practices to incorporate a professional who specializes in whole-child and whole-family health and well-being. The state's department will contract with an implementation partner experienced in placing professionals in pediatric practices, identifying family and healthcare professional concerns, and offering support strategies. The program will create a research-informed, team-based model focusing on children from birth to three years old, with the goal of improving physical health, behavioral health, developmental outcomes, and social outcomes. Eligible medical practices will be selected to offer comprehensive services including caregiver-child relationship evaluations, child development screenings, family risk factor assessments, behavioral health consultations, and preventative well-child visits. The department will explore funding sources, potentially including the Children's Basic Health Plan and state medical assistance programs, and may seek private or public grants. The program will not be implemented until sufficient funding is secured, with a reporting deadline of January 1, 2026, to the Joint Budget Committee on identified funding sources.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb25-017