Report Harm

If you see something, say something.

That’s good advice, especially when you or someone you know is being harmed. But where can you turn?

We’ve put together a list of public agencies to answer that question. These agencies investigate abuse, neglect, and exploitation — including fraud and other forms of financial harm.

If you don’t want to file a report on your own, ask someone you trust to help. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911, 988, or your county crisis line.

Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an adult

This includes:

  • Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse
  • Neglect by a caregiver or service provider
  • Financial exploitation or misuse of funds
  • Harmful acts or self-neglect involving an at-risk adult

Who can report: Anyone with a concern, including the individual, family members, friends, neighbors, and professionals

Where to report: Colorado Adult Protective Services, 844-CO4-APS (844-264-2777). Statewide hotline is available 24/7. Calls are routed to the office in the county where the adult lives.

Most reports can be made anonymously. Reporters are protected when reporting in good faith.

Abuse or neglect of a child

This includes:

  • Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse

  • Neglect or failure to provide necessary care or supervision

  • Abuse or neglect by parents, caregivers, and institutions

Where to report:

Colorado Child Abuse & Neglect Hotline
1-844-CO-4-KIDS (1-844-264-5437)
• Available 24/7
• Reports are routed to the appropriate county for investigation.

More information: Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline Reporting System | Colorado Department of Human Services

Important:

  • Anyone can make a report

  • Some professionals are mandated reporters under Colorado law.

Abuse or neglect in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and group homes

This includes:

  • Poor quality of care

  • Unsafe or unsanitary conditions

  • Physical or verbal abuse

  • Improper restraints

  • Medication errors

  • Problems with transfers or discharges

Where to report: Colorado Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
📞 303-862-3524

Find a local ombudsman or learn more: Colorado State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | Colorado State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

Important:

  • Ombudsmen advocate for residents and investigate complaints.

  • Services are free and confidential.

  • You can report concerns on behalf of someone else.

Medicaid fraud or health care fraud

Option 1: Medicaid Provider Fraud or Abuse

Report suspected fraud, abuse, or neglect involving Medicaid providers:

📞 Colorado Attorney General – Medicaid Fraud Control Unit
720-508-6696

Option 2: Health First Colorado (Medicaid) Fraud Reporting

For fraud, waste, or abuse involving Medicaid benefits:

📞 Provider fraud: 855-375-2500
📞 Member fraud: 844-475-0444

MAIL
Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing
Attn: Program Integrity Section
303 E. 17th Ave., Suite 1100
Denver, CO 80203

More information:
How to report suspected fraud | Department of Health Care Policy and Financing

Not sure?

Request Support

What if reporting isn’t enough? Maybe the public agency didn’t solve your problem — or respond at all.

We may be able to help. Please fill out a request for support. Provide as much information as possible, including the name of the agency you turned to.

Request support