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

CareFirst BlueChoice Health Insurance Plans in Wise County, Virginia

Wise County residents can access CareFirst BlueChoice plans and options from 5 other carriers through Marketplace Virginia for 2026.
Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, covering adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Marketplace Virginia offers Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans, allowing for diverse choices.
Individuals with incomes between 100% and 400% FPL may qualify for significant subsidies to reduce monthly premiums for CareFirst BlueChoice plans.

Navigating health insurance options in Wise County, Virginia, includes understanding plans offered by carriers like CareFirst BlueChoice. As a resident of Wise County, you have access to a variety of health insurance plans through Marketplace Virginia, the state-based marketplace that uses the federal platform. These plans are designed to be affordable and comprehensive, with potential financial assistance based on your household income. CareFirst BlueChoice is one of several providers participating in Rating Area 6, which covers Wise County and surrounding areas, offering a range of choices from Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) structures.

Get Your Free Health Insurance Quote

A licensed agent can compare coverage options for you at no cost.

✓

You're all set!

A licensed agent will reach out shortly.

What Are My CareFirst BlueChoice Plan Options in Wise County?

CareFirst BlueChoice, like other major carriers in Virginia, offers a selection of plans through Marketplace Virginia. These plans are categorized into metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, each designed to balance monthly premiums with out-of-pocket costs.

Bronze Plans: These plans have the lowest monthly premiums but the highest deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. They are ideal for individuals who expect minimal healthcare use but want protection against catastrophic medical events.
Silver Plans: Offering moderate premiums and deductibles, Silver plans are a popular choice. Crucially, if your income is between 100% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs), which lower your deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums, making Silver plans a highly valuable option.
Gold Plans: With higher monthly premiums, Gold plans provide lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs when you need care. These are suitable for individuals or families who anticipate regular medical needs and prefer to pay more upfront for more predictable costs throughout the year.
Platinum Plans: These plans have the highest monthly premiums but offer the lowest out-of-pocket costs, often with very low or no deductibles. They are best for those who require extensive medical care and want the most comprehensive coverage with minimal cost-sharing at the point of service.

Wise County, with a population of 35,448 and a median income of $52,943 per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, is part of Virginia Rating Area 6. This rating area also covers Bristol, Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Norton, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, and Washington counties. The area's uninsured rate is 6.5%, below the national average. Lonesome Pine Hospital in Big Stone Gap serves as the county's acute care facility, and it is important to confirm network participation for any CareFirst BlueChoice plan you consider.

Who Qualifies for Financial Assistance in Wise County?

Financial assistance is a key component of making health insurance affordable in Wise County. Virginia is a Medicaid expansion state, and subsidies are available through Marketplace Virginia.

Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus): If your household income is at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for Virginia Medicaid, which provides comprehensive health coverage with no monthly premiums and minimal or no out-of-pocket costs. This program expanded in Virginia in 2019.
Premium Tax Credits: Individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% of the FPL may be eligible for premium tax credits. These credits reduce your monthly health insurance premium, making plans from CareFirst BlueChoice and other carriers more affordable. The amount of the credit depends on your income, household size, and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in your area.
Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): Available exclusively with Silver plans, CSRs further reduce your out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. You are eligible for CSRs if your income is between 100% and 250% of the FPL.
FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security): For children in households up to 200% FPL, FAMIS provides low-cost health coverage. For pregnant women, FAMIS Moms covers up to 200% FPL, including 12 months of postpartum care. For children between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost coverage.

Health Insurance Carriers in Wise County

For 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 6, which includes Wise County. These carriers provide a range of Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans to meet diverse needs. The confirmed carriers offering plans in Wise County's Rating Area 6 are:

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

When selecting a plan, it's important to compare not only the monthly premiums but also the provider networks, especially considering local facilities like Lonesome Pine Hospital in Big Stone Gap. Each carrier offers different plans with varying levels of coverage and cost-sharing.

Making Your Health Plan Decision in Wise County

Choosing the right CareFirst BlueChoice health insurance plan, or any other plan, in Wise County depends on your specific health needs, financial situation, and preferred doctors or hospitals.

If you prioritize low monthly payments: Consider Bronze plans or Silver plans with premium tax credits. If your income is below 138% FPL, apply for Virginia Medicaid.
If you expect moderate healthcare use: Silver plans are often a good balance, especially if you qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions.
If you anticipate frequent medical care: Gold or Platinum plans offer lower out-of-pocket costs when you receive care, despite higher monthly premiums.
Verify Provider Networks: Always confirm that your preferred doctors, specialists, and facilities, including Lonesome Pine Hospital, are in-network for any plan you consider.

A licensed health insurance producer can provide personalized guidance, helping you compare CareFirst BlueChoice plans and other options, calculate potential subsidies, and navigate the enrollment process through Marketplace Virginia. Their assistance is free of charge and can ensure you choose a plan that best fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of CareFirst BlueChoice plans are available in Wise County?

In Wise County, CareFirst BlueChoice, along with other carriers, offers Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans through Marketplace Virginia. The specific plan types from CareFirst BlueChoice will vary, so it's essential to check plan details for their current offerings.

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

Yes, if your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions to lower the cost of CareFirst BlueChoice plans or other plans available through Marketplace Virginia. These subsidies are applied directly at the time of enrollment.

How does CareFirst BlueChoice compare to other carriers in Wise County?

CareFirst BlueChoice is one of 6 carriers offering Marketplace plans in Wise County's Rating Area 6 for 2026. Other carriers include Cigna, HealthKeepers, Oscar Health, Sentara Health Plans, and United Healthcare. To compare, you should look at specific plan benefits, provider networks (including Lonesome Pine Hospital), deductibles, copayments, and overall costs for each carrier and plan tier.

Is CareFirst BlueChoice accepted at Lonesome Pine Hospital in Wise County?

Lonesome Pine Hospital in Big Stone Gap is the primary acute care hospital in Wise County. CareFirst BlueChoice plans typically have extensive provider networks. However, it is crucial to verify directly with CareFirst BlueChoice or Lonesome Pine Hospital that your specific plan is accepted and that your preferred doctors are in-network before enrolling.