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

Health Insurance Options in Highland County, Virginia

In 2026, 6 health insurance carriers offer marketplace plans in Highland County's Rating Area 5, including CareFirst BlueChoice, Cigna, and United Healthcare.
Virginia residents with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for free or low-cost Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus).
Highland County has a population of 2,296, with an uninsured rate of 3.9%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.
While Highland County has no acute care hospitals, residents can access emergency and inpatient care by traveling to neighboring counties within Rating Area 5.
Marketplace subsidies are available for individuals and families with incomes up to 400% FPL, making comprehensive coverage more affordable.

Navigating health insurance options in Highland County, Virginia, involves understanding both statewide programs and local plan availability. Residents of Highland County can access a range of health plans through Marketplace Virginia, which uses HealthCare.gov. This marketplace offers premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions to make coverage more affordable for individuals and families with qualifying incomes. In 2026, Highland County is part of Virginia's Rating Area 5, where 6 confirmed carriers provide a variety of plans, including HMO, PPO, and EPO options. Whether you're seeking comprehensive coverage, exploring Medicaid eligibility, or looking for subsidy-eligible plans, knowing your local choices is the first step.

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.

Understanding Your Health Insurance Options in Highland County

For most residents of Highland County, health insurance coverage is primarily accessed through Marketplace Virginia, the state-based marketplace that operates on the HealthCare.gov platform. This is the central hub for individuals and families to explore, compare, and enroll in Affordable Care Act (ACA) compliant health plans. The ACA marketplace ensures that all plans cover essential health benefits, including doctor visits, prescription drugs, mental health care, and maternity services.

Marketplace Virginia offers various plan types to suit different needs and preferences. In Highland County, you can choose from Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs). PPO plans, which offer more flexibility in choosing providers outside a specific network, are indeed available on-exchange in Virginia, with options from carriers like HealthKeepers Plus PPO, Cigna, and United Healthcare.

Financial assistance is a key component of the ACA, making coverage more accessible. Premium Tax Credits (subsidies) can significantly lower your monthly premiums, while Cost-Sharing Reductions can reduce out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copayments. Eligibility for these subsidies is based on household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and is available for incomes up to 400% FPL.

Who Qualifies for Affordable Coverage in Highland County?

Affordable health coverage in Highland County is determined by your household income and family size. Virginia has expanded its Medicaid program, known as Virginia Medicaid or FAMIS Plus, which provides crucial support for low-income residents.

Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus): Adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for free or very low-cost health coverage. Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, eliminating the "coverage gap" for this income bracket.
Medicaid for Pregnant Women (FAMIS Moms): Pregnant women in Virginia can receive comprehensive coverage with incomes up to 200% FPL. This program covers prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. Applications can be submitted through commonhelp.virginia.gov.
CHIP for Children (FAMIS): Uninsured children in households with incomes up to 200% FPL are eligible for the FAMIS program. For children between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost coverage options.
Marketplace Subsidies: If your income is above the Medicaid threshold but below 400% FPL, you are likely eligible for Premium Tax Credits to reduce your monthly premiums on Marketplace Virginia. Those with incomes between 100% and 250% FPL may also qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions, lowering their deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums.

Highland County, with a poverty rate of 9.5% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, benefits significantly from these expanded eligibility programs, ensuring that more residents have access to essential healthcare services.

Health Insurance Carriers in Highland County

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, Roanoke, Salem, Smyth, Wythe counties. These carriers provide a range of plan types, including Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), and Exclusive Provider Organizations (EPOs), giving consumers flexibility in choosing a plan that fits their needs. The confirmed carriers for Highland County and Rating Area 5 are:

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

When selecting a plan, it is important to review the specific network of each carrier to ensure your preferred doctors and facilities are covered. While Highland County has no acute care hospitals within its boundaries, residents often travel to facilities in neighboring counties for emergency and inpatient services. The networks of these carriers will determine which of these external facilities are in-network.

Navigating Healthcare Access in Highland County

Highland County, with its population of 2,296 and an uninsured rate of 3.9% per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, is part of Virginia's Rating Area 5. This rating area is extensive, also covering Alleghany, Bath, Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Covington, Craig, Floyd, Galax, Grayson, Montgomery, Pulaski, Radford, Roanoke, Roanoke, Salem, Smyth, and Wythe counties. Highland County has no acute care hospitals within its boundaries, meaning residents often travel to neighboring counties for emergency and inpatient care.

Given the rural nature of Highland County and the absence of local acute care hospitals, understanding your health plan's network and emergency care policies is especially important. Ensure your chosen plan offers coverage for the hospitals and specialists in the neighboring areas you would typically access for medical services. For non-emergency care, local clinics and primary care providers remain crucial access points.

Making the Right Choice for Your Health Plan

Choosing the right health insurance plan in Highland County depends on several factors, including your income, health needs, and preferred providers. Here’s a general guide:

If your income is at or below 138% FPL: You likely qualify for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus). This program offers comprehensive benefits with minimal or no costs.
If your income is between 138% and 250% FPL: You are eligible for significant Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions. Enhanced Silver plans are often the best value, offering lower deductibles and copayments in addition to reduced premiums.
If your income is between 250% and 400% FPL: You qualify for Premium Tax Credits to lower your monthly premiums. You can choose from Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum plans based on your desired balance of monthly cost versus out-of-pocket expenses when you need care.
If your income is above 400% FPL: While you won't qualify for subsidies, you can still purchase a comprehensive plan through Marketplace Virginia at full price. Comparing plans across different metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) can help you find one that fits your budget and healthcare needs.

Navigating the various options can be complex. A licensed health insurance producer can provide free, unbiased assistance, helping you compare plans, understand your subsidy eligibility, and enroll in the best coverage for your specific situation in Highland County.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for health insurance in Highland County, Virginia?

Residents of Highland County can apply for health insurance through Marketplace Virginia, which utilizes the federal platform HealthCare.gov. This is where you can compare plans, check eligibility for subsidies, and enroll during the annual Open Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period if you qualify.

What are the income limits for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) in Highland County?

Virginia expanded its Medicaid program in 2019, known as FAMIS Plus. Adults in Highland County with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for comprehensive, low-cost or free health coverage through this program. Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Moms) also covers pregnant women up to 200% FPL, and FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security) covers children up to 200% FPL.

Are PPO plans available on the marketplace in Highland County?

Yes, PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans are available on-exchange through Marketplace Virginia in Highland County. In 2026, consumers in Rating Area 5 can choose from various plan types, including HMO, PPO, and EPO options offered by carriers such as HealthKeepers Plus PPO, Cigna, and United Healthcare. This provides flexibility for those who prefer the broader network access of a PPO.

What are the confirmed health insurance carriers for Highland County in 2026?

For 2026, Highland County, which is part of Virginia's Rating Area 5, has 6 confirmed carriers offering marketplace plans. These include CareFirst BlueChoice, Cigna, HealthKeepers, Oscar Health, Sentara Health Plans, and United Healthcare. These carriers provide a range of plan options to suit different healthcare needs and budgets.

What should I do if I need emergency medical care in Highland County?

Highland County currently has no acute care hospitals within its borders. In case of an emergency, residents typically need to travel to a neighboring county for acute medical care. It is crucial to understand your health plan's emergency coverage and where the nearest in-network emergency facilities are located.