# Women's health nurse practitioners in Colorado

> A women's health nurse practitioner is a nurse with graduate training in women's health. They provide exams, birth control, and care through pregnancy and menopause.

Source: Colorado Health Insurance Colorado Care Index (https://coloradohealthinsurance.com/care/womens-health-np), data updated 2026-11-11. Published by Grove Benefit Advisors LLC, a licensed Colorado health insurance agency.

## When people see one

- Yearly well-woman exams and Pap tests
- Birth control or pregnancy planning
- Menopause symptoms
- Screening for infections or breast concerns

## How it differs

- OB-GYN: An OB-GYN is a surgeon and physician who can deliver by cesarean and treat complex conditions. A women's health NP gives routine and preventive care.
- Nurse practitioner (primary care): A primary care NP treats general health needs. A women's health NP focuses on reproductive and gynecologic care.

## On 2027 Colorado plans

- Referral: No. You don't need a referral for primary care.
- Visit cost by metal level (standard plans):
  - Bronze: $25 to $50 a visit on 23 of 56 plans
  - Silver: $0 to $90 a visit on 53 of 58 plans
  - Gold: $0 to $70 a visit on 26 of 30 plans

## In Colorado

- 400 clinicians at 267 locations in public records (NPPES, CMS).

## Questions to ask the office

- Are you taking new patients?
- Which 2027 plans do you take? Ask for the plan's network name, not only the insurance company.
- Do you provide prenatal care, or only gynecologic care?
- Which physician do you refer to if I need surgery?

## Sources

- [American Association of Nurse Practitioners: What's a Nurse Practitioner?](https://www.aanp.org/about/all-about-nps/whats-a-nurse-practitioner)
- [MedlinePlus: Nurse practitioner](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001934.htm)