Colorado’s Public Health Disparities

We asked. Our community answered. And the data is clear.

As part of our ongoing Community Needs Assessment, we’ve analyzed 165 responses (and counting) from individuals navigating healthcare—primarily across Colorado.

Here’s what we’re seeing:

• 70–75% report experiencing disrespect, dismissal, or unfair treatment in healthcare settings

• 65–70% say their concerns were dismissed—only to worsen later

• 60% report these experiences made them less likely to seek follow-up care

• 60–65% noticed a change in care after disclosing Medicaid or experiencing conflict

Even more telling?

Many of these experiences—especially among Hispanic respondents—are not always recognized as microaggressions, yet they continue to impact care outcomes.

Awareness isn’t the issue.

Access to complaint processes isn’t the issue.

The issue is that the system still allows these experiences to continue.

At the same time:

• 75%+ want low-cost care navigation + advocacy support

• 80%+ believe support would improve their healthcare experience

• Most are looking for help understanding insurance, finding respectful providers, and navigating appointments

Cost, trust, and time remain the biggest barriers.

So what does this mean?

People don’t just need access to care.

They need support navigating it—and to be treated with dignity when they get there.

This is exactly why we’re building what we’re building.

Because healthcare shouldn’t feel like something you have to fight just to receive.

If you’ve experienced this—you’re not alone.

And we’re working on solutions.

More data and next steps coming soon.