Denver Jail Inmates Sign Up For Healthcare

The Denver Post

Inmates leaving a Denver jail already are a step behind in life because of their criminal records or pending charges. Add a health crisis and no insurance, and those trying to get their lives in order fall even further behind. But the Denver Sheriff Department and Denver Human Services are trying to help by enrolling inmates in the Affordable Care Act, often called Obamacare. Since March, 369 former inmates have been approved for Medicaid coverage, said Andrea Albo, deputy director of assistance for Denver Human Services. There are 408 pending applications, and a total of 1,059 people have applied, she said. Those who are denied Medicaid enrollment are referred to Connect for Health Colorado, the state's health insurance exchange. The American Jail Association is encouraging county detention centers across the country to do the same, according to the association's website. The plan also is saving money for the sheriff's department, said Simon Crittle, a department spokesman.