As the state’s largest not-for-profit health plan, Kaiser Permanente is committed to improving the health of our members and the Colorado communities we serve. Every day since we opened our doors in Colorado in 1969, we have focused on making the lives of our 535,000+ members healthier. Because our members, employees, physicians, families, friends, and neighbors cannot be healthy if they live, work, and play in unhealthy communities, we are also intent on improving the health and vitality of Colorado communities.
We invest the time, expertise, and resources of 6,000+ Kaiser Permanente Colorado physicians and employees to help address our state’s most pressing health and social concerns. In 2011, Kaiser Permanente Colorado invested $89 million in our community programs and efforts.
The health challenges in Colorado communities today are significant. Uninsured and under-insured rates are still unacceptable. Community clinics that provide the bulk of the care to the uninsured are strained. Health care reform is unfolding and will need to be implemented into the health care system. Obesity rates continue to rise. A shortage of care providers, particularly primary care physicians, specialists, and nurses, is still forecasted.
And difficult social challenges continue to directly affect health and impact the vibrancy of Colorado communities. Our economic climate continues to cause families to make difficult decisions on life necessities. Our schools’ resource needs still need to be addressed. Nonprofits and government agencies that provide the bulk of social services are strained.
Faced with these facts, Kaiser Permanente is more resolute than ever to invest and get involved in our communities. We invite you to learn more about our community programs.
