CareFirst BlueChoice Health Insurance Plans in Bedford, Virginia
- CareFirst BlueChoice is one of 6 health insurance carriers offering plans in Bedford, Virginia's Rating Area 5 for 2026.
- Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, covering adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) via Virginia Medicaid or FAMIS Plus.
- Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) offers HMO, PPO, and EPO plans, with subsidies available for those between 100% and 400% FPL.
- The city of Bedford has a population of 7,724 and an uninsured rate of 8.2%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.
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What CareFirst BlueChoice Plans Are Available in Bedford, Virginia?
In Bedford, Virginia, CareFirst BlueChoice offers various health insurance plans through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov). Virginia's marketplace is robust, allowing consumers to choose from Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans. Unlike some states, PPO plans are readily available on-exchange in Virginia, giving Bedford residents more flexibility in provider choice. CareFirst BlueChoice plans typically include essential health benefits as mandated by the Affordable Care Act (ACA), covering services such as:- Ambulatory patient services (outpatient care)
- Emergency services
- Hospitalization (like surgery and overnight stays)
- Maternity and newborn care
- Mental health and substance use disorder services
- Prescription drugs
- Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices
- Laboratory services
- Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management
- Pediatric services, including oral and vision care
Financial Assistance for Health Insurance in Bedford
Many Bedford residents can receive financial assistance to help pay for their health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. These subsidies are available exclusively through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov).Premium Tax Credits
If your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for advance premium tax credits (APTCs). These credits can be used to lower your monthly premium payments for any marketplace plan, including those offered by CareFirst BlueChoice. The amount of your tax credit is based on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in your area.Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs)
For individuals with incomes up to 250% FPL, cost-sharing reductions are available when enrolling in a Silver-tier plan. CSRs reduce the amount you have to pay for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, making healthcare more affordable when you use it. This means you get a richer plan for the same Silver-tier premium.Virginia Medicaid and FAMIS Programs
Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, making coverage available to adults with incomes up to 138% FPL. If your income is within this range, you may qualify for comprehensive, low-cost or no-cost health coverage through Virginia Medicaid or FAMIS Plus.- Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Moms): Pregnant women with incomes up to 200% FPL can qualify for coverage, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. Applications can be submitted through commonhelp.virginia.gov.
- FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security): This program covers uninsured children in households with incomes up to 200% FPL. For children between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost coverage.
Health Insurance Carriers in Bedford
Bedford, Virginia, is part of Virginia Rating Area 5. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 5, which covers Alleghany, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Covington, Craig, Floyd, Galax, Grayson, Highland, Montgomery, Pulaski, Radford, Roanoke, Salem, Smyth, Wythe counties. These carriers provide a competitive market with diverse plan options. The confirmed carriers for 2026 are:- CareFirst BlueChoice
- Cigna
- HealthKeepers
- Oscar Health
- Sentara Health Plans
- United Healthcare
How to Choose the Right Plan in Bedford
Choosing the right health insurance plan, whether from CareFirst BlueChoice or another carrier, involves evaluating your specific needs, budget, and healthcare preferences. Here's a guide to help you decide:- Assess Your Healthcare Needs: If you anticipate frequent doctor visits, managing a chronic condition, or planning for a family, a Gold or Silver plan with lower out-of-pocket costs might be beneficial. If you are generally healthy and prefer lower premiums, a Bronze plan could be suitable for catastrophic coverage.
- Consider Your Budget: Determine how much you can comfortably afford for monthly premiums. Remember to factor in potential out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
- Check Doctor and Hospital Networks: Verify if your current doctors and preferred hospitals, such as Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital, are in-network with the plans you are considering. HMOs and EPOs have more restricted networks, while PPOs offer more flexibility, often at a higher cost.
- Utilize Subsidies: If your income qualifies, be sure to apply for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov) to significantly lower your costs.
- Compare Plan Types: Understand the differences between HMO, PPO, and EPO plans. HMOs require a primary care physician and referrals, PPOs offer more flexibility to see out-of-network providers (at a higher cost), and EPOs have a network but do not typically require referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CareFirst BlueChoice health insurance accepted at Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital?
To confirm if CareFirst BlueChoice plans are accepted at Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital or any specific provider, it is essential to check the plan's provider directory or contact CareFirst BlueChoice directly. Provider networks can vary by plan type and specific policy.
What is Virginia Rating Area 5?
Virginia Rating Area 5 is a geographic region used by health insurance carriers to set plan prices. It includes Bedford County and 18 other counties and independent cities, such as Alleghany, Bath, Botetourt, Carroll, Covington, Craig, Floyd, Galax, Grayson, Highland, Montgomery, Pulaski, Radford, Roanoke, Salem, Smyth, and Wythe. All plans offered within this rating area have uniform pricing for residents, adjusted for age, tobacco use, and family size.
What is the median income in Bedford, Virginia?
The median household income in the city of Bedford is $70,288, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. This figure is important because it helps determine eligibility for federal subsidies, such as premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions, available through Marketplace Virginia.
How do I apply for health insurance in Bedford?
You can apply for health insurance through Marketplace Virginia (HealthCare.gov). This platform allows you to compare plans from all available carriers, including CareFirst BlueChoice, and apply for financial assistance. You can also contact a licensed health insurance agent who can provide personalized guidance and help you enroll at no cost.