HB 18-1196

House Bill 18-1196, also known as "Applications for Aid to the Needy Disabled Program," updates Colorado's criteria for who can perform medical evaluations needed to qualify for assistance under this program. Currently, only doctors and certain types of nurses are allowed to conduct these exams. The bill expands this list to include licensed psychologists and any other health care professionals that the Department of Human Services deems suitable. This change aims to make it easier for people with disabilities to get the help they need by allowing more types of healthcare providers to evaluate them. Since the bill has been signed, its provisions are now law in Colorado, meaning individuals applying for aid can be evaluated by a broader range of health professionals.

Official Summary

Under current law, in order to receive assistance under the aid to the needy disabled program, an applicant must be examined by a physician, physician assistant, advanced practice nurse, or registered nurse. The bill adds to the list of persons authorized to perform an examination a licensed psychologist, or any other licensed or certified health care personnel the department of human services deems appropriate. Any person who performs an examination is required to certify the diagnosis, prognosis, and other relevant medical or mental factors relating to the applicant's disability. (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.) , Read More

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