Telenovela captivates Colorado Latinos while getting them in tune with health care options

Soap opera gets Latinos in tune with health care

DENVER — It has all the hallmarks of the beloved telenovela. But this soap opera’s story lines are laced with important medical advice for Colorado’s Latinos.

Colorado health officials have been airing the health-themed Spanish soap opera once a month since May. Because of popular demand, it will begin airing weekly episodes starting Sunday.

The goal is to spread important health messages to the Latino population. The Colorado Health Foundation funded the series, which includes a call center so viewers can ask about medical issues faced by characters on the show. Some of those issues affect Latinos at disproportionally high rates, like diabetes and lack of insurance.

On the Net:

Encrucijada: Sin Salud No Hay Nada: www.encrucijada.tv

Colorado Health Foundation: www.coloradohealth.org