Updated July 2026 · VirginiaPlanFinder.com — Licensed Health Insurance Producer (NPN #21249133)

CareFirst BlueChoice Health Insurance in Lancaster County, Virginia

CareFirst BlueChoice is one of 6 carriers offering Marketplace plans in Lancaster County's Rating Area 8 for 2026.
Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, covering adults up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and pregnant women up to 200% FPL.
Marketplace Virginia allows shoppers in Lancaster County to choose from HMO, PPO, and EPO plan types, with PPOs available on-exchange.
The median age in Lancaster County is 58.2 years, with a population of 10,936 and an uninsured rate of 6.5%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.

Navigating health insurance options in Lancaster County, Virginia, involves understanding both your personal needs and the local market. For 2026, CareFirst BlueChoice offers plans through Marketplace Virginia, providing residents with choices for comprehensive health coverage. Virginia's expanded Medicaid program also offers crucial support for lower-income individuals and families, including pregnant women and children. Whether you're seeking a flexible PPO, a cost-effective HMO, or an EPO plan, understanding your options and potential subsidies is key to securing affordable health insurance.

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What CareFirst BlueChoice Health Plans Are Available in Lancaster County?

CareFirst BlueChoice is a significant presence in Lancaster County's health insurance market, offering plans through Marketplace Virginia. As an expansion state, Virginia allows residents to access a variety of plan types, including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs). Unlike some other states, PPO plans are available on-exchange in Virginia, meaning you can purchase a CareFirst BlueChoice PPO plan and still qualify for subsidies if your income meets the criteria. HMO plans typically require you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the plan's network and get referrals for specialists. EPO plans offer a network of providers but generally do not require a PCP or referrals, though they usually do not cover out-of-network care. PPO plans offer the most flexibility, allowing you to see out-of-network providers (though often at a higher cost) and typically not requiring referrals. When considering CareFirst BlueChoice, it's essential to compare the specific benefits, deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums for each plan type to find one that aligns with your healthcare needs and budget.

Understanding Costs and Subsidies for CareFirst BlueChoice Plans

The cost of CareFirst BlueChoice health insurance in Lancaster County can vary significantly based on the plan type, your age, family size, and income. However, many residents can reduce their monthly premiums through federal subsidies, known as Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs), when purchasing plans through Marketplace Virginia. These subsidies are available to individuals and families with household incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For individuals and families with incomes below 138% FPL, Virginia Medicaid (or FAMIS Plus) offers comprehensive, low-cost coverage. For those above 100% FPL but who do not qualify for Medicaid, premium tax credits can make marketplace plans, including those from CareFirst BlueChoice, much more affordable. Additionally, some individuals may qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) if they choose a Silver-tier plan and have an income up to 250% FPL. CSRs lower your out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. To determine your eligibility for subsidies and get an accurate quote for CareFirst BlueChoice plans, you will need to provide information about your household income and family size when applying through Marketplace Virginia.

Health Insurance Carriers in Lancaster County

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 8, which covers Accomack, Albemarle, Amelia, Amherst, Appomattox, Bland, Brunswick, Buckingham, Campbell, Caroline, Charlotte, Charlottesville, Cumberland, Danville, Emporia, Essex, Fluvanna, Giles, Gloucester, Greene, Greensville, Halifax, Henry, King William, King and Queen, Lancaster, Louisa, Lunenburg, Lynchburg, Martinsville, Mathews, Mecklenburg, Middlesex, Nelson, Northumberland, Nottoway, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Prince Edward, Prince George, Sussex, Westmoreland, Winchester counties. These carriers include:

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

Lancaster County, part of Virginia Rating Area 8, is a largely rural area with a population of 10,936 and a median age of 58.2 years, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. The county's uninsured rate stands at 6.5%, below the national average. While Lancaster County has no acute care hospitals within its boundaries, residents needing acute medical attention typically travel to neighboring counties for services.

Enrolling in CareFirst BlueChoice Plans in Lancaster County

Enrollment in CareFirst BlueChoice plans through Marketplace Virginia generally occurs during the annual Open Enrollment Period, which typically runs from November 1 to January 15 each year. During this time, you can compare plans, apply for subsidies, and enroll in new coverage or change your existing plan for the upcoming year. However, certain life events may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) outside of the standard Open Enrollment. These qualifying life events include:

Losing existing health coverage (e.g., due to job loss, COBRA ending, turning 26 and coming off a parent's plan)
Changes in household size (e.g., marriage, divorce, birth or adoption of a child)
Moving to a new area that offers different health plans
Changes in income that affect subsidy eligibility

If you experience a qualifying life event, you typically have 60 days from the event date to enroll in a new plan. It is crucial to act quickly during this period to avoid a gap in coverage. A licensed health insurance producer can help you determine if you qualify for an SEP and guide you through the enrollment process for CareFirst BlueChoice or other available plans in Lancaster County.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of CareFirst BlueChoice plans are available in Lancaster County, VA?

In Lancaster County, CareFirst BlueChoice offers plans through the Marketplace Virginia. Shoppers can typically choose from HMO, PPO, and EPO plan structures, which vary in network flexibility and referral requirements.

Can I get a subsidy for CareFirst BlueChoice plans in Lancaster County?

Yes, if your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for premium tax credits to lower your monthly costs for CareFirst BlueChoice plans purchased through Marketplace Virginia. Individuals with income below 138% FPL may qualify for Virginia Medicaid.

How does Medicaid work in Lancaster County, Virginia?

Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, meaning adults with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for Virginia Medicaid or FAMIS Plus. Pregnant women can qualify up to 200% FPL through FAMIS Moms, and children up to 200% FPL through FAMIS. Applications are processed via commonhelp.virginia.gov.

Are PPO plans available from CareFirst BlueChoice in Lancaster County?

Yes, PPO plans are available on-exchange in Virginia, including in Lancaster County. This means you can choose a CareFirst BlueChoice PPO plan through Marketplace Virginia and potentially receive subsidies if you qualify, offering more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers.