CareFirst BlueChoice Health Insurance in Henrico County, Virginia
- CareFirst BlueChoice is one of 6 health insurance carriers offering plans on the Virginia marketplace in Henrico County for 2026.
- Henrico County is part of Virginia Rating Area 3, which includes 13 distinct counties.
- Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, covering adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- Henrico County has a population of 335,744 and an uninsured rate of 6.3%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.
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What Health Insurance Plans Are Available in Henrico County?
In Henrico County, Virginia, residents have access to a variety of health insurance plans through Marketplace Virginia / HealthCare.gov. For 2026, the marketplace offers plans from 6 confirmed carriers, including CareFirst BlueChoice. The available plan types in Virginia include Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) structures. This means you have flexibility in choosing a plan that balances network access, cost, and referral requirements. CareFirst BlueChoice offers a range of these plan types, typically across different metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum). Bronze plans generally have lower monthly premiums but higher deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, making them suitable for those who anticipate minimal medical care. Silver plans offer a balance of premiums and cost-sharing, with additional benefits for those who qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs). Gold and Platinum plans feature higher premiums but lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, ideal for individuals or families expecting more frequent medical services.Understanding Metal Tiers and Subsidies
The metal tiers help you compare plans based on how you and your insurance company share costs:- Bronze: Covers approximately 60% of costs, you pay 40%. Lowest premiums, highest out-of-pocket costs.
- Silver: Covers approximately 70% of costs, you pay 30%. Moderate premiums and deductibles. Crucially, if you qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) based on income, a Silver plan will provide enhanced benefits, effectively increasing its coverage to 80-94%.
- Gold: Covers approximately 80% of costs, you pay 20%. Higher premiums, lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.
Health Insurance Carriers in Henrico County
For 2026, residents of Henrico County, Virginia, have several options for health insurance coverage through Marketplace Virginia / HealthCare.gov. Henrico County is part of Virginia Rating Area 3, which covers Charles City, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Hopewell, New Kent, Petersburg, Powhatan, Richmond, Richmond counties. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, providing a competitive selection for consumers. The confirmed carriers offering plans in Henrico County's Rating Area 3 for the 2026 plan year include:- CareFirst BlueChoice
- Cigna
- HealthKeepers
- Oscar Health
- Sentara Health Plans
- United Healthcare
Medicaid and CHIP Eligibility in Virginia
Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2019, making health coverage accessible to more residents. Adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for Virginia Medicaid, also known as FAMIS Plus. This program provides comprehensive health benefits with no monthly premiums or deductibles. For a single individual, 138% FPL is approximately $20,782 per year. Families with children can also find support through the Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS) program. Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Moms) covers pregnant women with incomes up to 200% FPL, including comprehensive prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. Children in households with incomes up to 200% FPL are eligible for FAMIS. For children between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost coverage options. You can apply for these programs through commonhelp.virginia.gov. Henrico County, with a population of 335,744 and an uninsured rate of 6.3% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, benefits significantly from these expanded programs, ensuring more residents have access to essential healthcare services. Henrico Doctors' Hospital in Richmond serves as a key acute care facility for the county's residents.Making the Right Choice for Your Health Insurance
Choosing a health insurance plan in Henrico County involves considering your income, health needs, and preferred doctors. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you decide:- Assess Your Income: Determine your estimated household income for the upcoming year. This will indicate your eligibility for premium tax credits (subsidies) and Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) on the marketplace, or for Virginia Medicaid if your income is below 138% FPL.
- Consider Your Healthcare Needs: If you expect frequent doctor visits or have chronic conditions, a Gold or Silver plan with lower deductibles might be more cost-effective despite higher premiums. If you're generally healthy, a Bronze plan might suffice, especially if you qualify for subsidies.
- Check Provider Networks: Confirm that your preferred doctors, specialists, and the Henrico Doctors' Hospital are in the network of any plan you are considering, particularly for CareFirst BlueChoice or other carriers.
- Compare Plan Types (HMO, PPO, EPO): Understand the differences. HMOs typically require a primary care physician and referrals, while PPOs offer more flexibility to see out-of-network providers (at a higher cost). EPOs offer a middle ground with a defined network but no referral requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CareFirst BlueChoice available on the Virginia health insurance marketplace?
Yes, CareFirst BlueChoice is one of 6 carriers offering plans on the Virginia health insurance marketplace for residents of Henrico County and Rating Area 3 in 2026. You can compare their plans with others through Marketplace Virginia / HealthCare.gov.
What types of plans does CareFirst BlueChoice offer in Henrico County, VA?
In Virginia, marketplace plans, including those from CareFirst BlueChoice, are available in HMO, PPO, and EPO structures. The specific plan types offered by CareFirst BlueChoice may vary, so it's best to review their detailed plan offerings on Marketplace Virginia / HealthCare.gov.
Can I get financial help to pay for CareFirst BlueChoice plans in Henrico County?
Yes, if your household income is between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for premium tax credits (subsidies) to lower your monthly premiums. Individuals with income up to 150% FPL may also qualify for enhanced subsidies under federal law. These subsidies can be applied to any marketplace plan, including those from CareFirst BlueChoice.
What is the uninsured rate in Henrico County, Virginia?
According to U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, Henrico County has an uninsured rate of 6.3%. This is lower than the national average, indicating a relatively high rate of health insurance coverage among its population of 335,744 residents.