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

CareFirst BlueChoice Health Insurance in Richmond County, Virginia

What CareFirst BlueChoice Plans are Available in Richmond County?

In Richmond County, CareFirst BlueChoice offers health insurance plans through the HealthCare.gov marketplace. As 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, residents have access to various plan types. These typically include Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans. PPO plans are indeed available on-exchange in Virginia, giving consumers more flexibility in choosing their healthcare providers, often without requiring a primary care physician referral to see specialists.

CareFirst BlueChoice plans, like all marketplace plans, are categorized into metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These tiers indicate the level of cost-sharing between you and your insurer:

• Bronze plans: Offer lower monthly premiums but have higher deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. They cover 60% of costs on average, with you paying 40%. These are best for those who anticipate minimal medical needs or want protection against catastrophic events.
• Silver plans: Provide a balance between premiums and out-of-pocket costs, covering 70% of costs on average. These are especially valuable for individuals and families who qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs), which can significantly lower deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, making Silver plans a strong value.
• Gold plans: Feature higher monthly premiums but lower deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, covering 80% of costs on average. These are suitable for those who expect to use medical services frequently and prefer predictable costs.
• Platinum plans: Have the highest monthly premiums but the lowest deductibles and out-of-pocket costs, covering 90% of costs on average. These are ideal for individuals with extensive medical needs who want minimal out-of-pocket expenses for services.

Understanding Financial Assistance for Health Insurance in Virginia

Many Richmond County residents are eligible for financial assistance to help pay for their health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs. These subsidies are available through the HealthCare.gov marketplace and are crucial for making coverage affordable.

Premium Tax Credits (PTC)

Premium Tax Credits reduce your monthly health insurance premium. Eligibility is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). In Virginia, individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% of the FPL may qualify. For 2026, 400% FPL for an individual is approximately $60,240, and for a family of four, it's about $124,800. The specific amount of your tax credit depends on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in your area.

Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR)

Cost-Sharing Reductions lower the amount you have to pay for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance when you receive medical care. These are only available if you enroll in a Silver-tier plan and your income is between 100% and 250% of the FPL. CSRs effectively make your Silver plan much richer, providing benefits closer to a Gold or even Platinum plan at a Silver plan price.

Richmond County's population of 9,095, with a median income of $66,304 and a poverty rate of 7.7% (per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates), indicates that many residents may find themselves within the income thresholds for these vital subsidies. The county's uninsured rate of 5.2% is below the national average, suggesting good access to coverage options.

Virginia Medicaid and FAMIS Plus in Richmond County

Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2019, extending coverage to many adults who previously didn't qualify. This program is known as Virginia Medicaid Expansion or FAMIS Plus. Adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are eligible for comprehensive, low-cost or no-cost health coverage. For an individual in 2026, 138% FPL is approximately $20,782 per year. Unlike some states, Virginia does not have a "coverage gap" for those between 100% and 138% FPL; instead, they may qualify for Medicaid.

For pregnant women, Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Moms) provides coverage for those with incomes up to 200% FPL, covering prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. Children in households up to 200% FPL can receive coverage through FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security). For children with household incomes between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost coverage options. Applications for these programs can be submitted through commonhelp.virginia.gov.

Health Insurance Carriers in Richmond County

For the 2026 plan year, residents of Richmond County, which is part of Virginia Rating Area 3, have a robust selection of health insurance carriers to choose from on the HealthCare.gov marketplace. In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, ensuring competitive options for consumers.

The confirmed carriers offering plans in this rating area are:

• CareFirst BlueChoice
• Cigna
• HealthKeepers
• Oscar Health
• Sentara Health Plans
• United Healthcare

These carriers offer a range of plan types, including HMO, PPO, and EPO options, with varying networks of doctors and hospitals. When selecting a plan, it is crucial to verify that your preferred healthcare providers and any necessary medications are covered within the plan's network and formulary.

Hospitals and Healthcare Access for Richmond County Residents

Richmond County residents benefit from access to a range of healthcare facilities in the broader Richmond area. While Richmond County itself is primarily rural, its proximity to Richmond City provides access to several major acute care hospitals. These facilities serve the region, including Richmond County residents, and are important considerations when choosing a health plan with a specific carrier like CareFirst BlueChoice.

Hospitals in the Richmond area that serve the region and may be part of carrier networks include:

• Medical College of Virginia Hospitals (Richmond)
• Bon Secours St Marys Hospital (Richmond)
• Bon Secours Richmond Community Hospital (Richmond)
• Cjw Medical Center (Richmond)

When selecting a CareFirst BlueChoice plan or any other carrier's plan, always confirm that your preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals are in-network for your chosen plan to ensure seamless access to care and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Making Your Health Insurance Decision in Richmond County

Choosing the right health insurance plan in Richmond County involves considering your medical needs, budget, and eligibility for financial assistance. Here's a guide to help you decide:

Richmond County, part of Virginia Rating Area 3, which has a population of 9,095 and an uninsured rate of 5.2% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, offers a variety of health plans from carriers like CareFirst BlueChoice. These options ensure that residents have choices for quality, affordable coverage. A licensed health insurance producer can provide personalized guidance, helping you compare plans, understand networks, and apply for subsidies at no cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get Your Free Quote