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

Health Insurance in Washington County, Virginia: 2026 Marketplace Plans and Local Options

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Virginia's Rating Area 6, which includes Washington County.
Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, covering adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Washington County residents can choose from Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plan types on the Marketplace Virginia.
Subsidies like Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions can significantly lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs for eligible individuals and families.
Pregnant women in Virginia may qualify for FAMIS Moms (Medicaid) with incomes up to 200% FPL, and children up to 200% FPL via FAMIS.

Navigating health insurance options in Washington County, Virginia, involves understanding both the state's marketplace and its robust Medicaid programs. For 2026, residents can access a variety of plans through Marketplace Virginia, which operates on the HealthCare.gov federal platform. This includes a choice of HMO, PPO, and EPO plan structures, offering flexibility to suit different healthcare needs and preferences. Eligibility for financial assistance, such as Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions, can make coverage significantly more affordable, depending on household income. Additionally, Virginia's expanded Medicaid program ensures that many low-income adults, pregnant women, and children in Washington County have access to comprehensive health benefits.

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 Health Insurance Options Are Available in Washington County?

Residents of Washington County have several pathways to securing health insurance coverage, primarily through the Marketplace Virginia or state-funded Medicaid and FAMIS programs. The marketplace offers a range of private insurance plans that are categorized by metal tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These tiers indicate the level of cost-sharing between you and your insurer, with Bronze plans typically having lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs, and Gold/Platinum plans offering higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket expenses. Virginia is an expansion state for Medicaid, which means more adults qualify for free or low-cost health coverage. For those who don't qualify for Medicaid, financial assistance through the marketplace can significantly reduce the cost of private plans. This assistance comes in two main forms: Premium Tax Credits, which lower your monthly premium payments, and Cost-Sharing Reductions, which decrease your deductibles, co-payments, and total out-of-pocket maximums if you enroll in a Silver plan and meet specific income criteria.

Understanding Marketplace Virginia and Subsidies

Marketplace Virginia, while a state-based marketplace, utilizes the federal HealthCare.gov platform for enrollment. This means Washington County residents apply and manage their plans through HealthCare.gov. When you apply, the system determines your eligibility for financial help based on your household income and size. Premium Tax Credits (PTC): These subsidies are available to individuals and families with incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The tax credit can be used immediately to lower your monthly premium payments. Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR): If your income is between 100% and 250% FPL, you may also qualify for CSRs. These are only available if you enroll in a Silver-tier plan. CSRs enhance your Silver plan by reducing the amount you pay for deductibles, co-payments, and coinsurance, making healthcare services more affordable when you need them. For example, a single individual in Washington County earning $35,000 per year (approximately 250% FPL in 2026) would likely qualify for significant Premium Tax Credits and Cost-Sharing Reductions if they choose a Silver plan, leading to substantially lower overall healthcare costs.

Health Insurance Carriers in Washington County

In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 6, which covers Bristol, Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Norton, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, Washington, and Wise counties. These carriers provide a range of plan options, including HMO, PPO, and EPO structures, to Washington County residents. The confirmed carriers for Rating Area 6 in 2026 are:

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

When selecting a plan, it is important to review each carrier's specific offerings and provider networks to ensure your preferred doctors and specialists are included. All plans offered on the Marketplace Virginia cover essential health benefits, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health services, and maternity care.

Virginia Medicaid and FAMIS Programs for Washington County Residents

Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, providing crucial health coverage to a broader segment of the population. For Washington County adults, this means that if your income is up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for Virginia Medicaid Expansion, also known as FAMIS Plus. This program offers comprehensive health benefits with no monthly premiums and minimal or no out-of-pocket costs. Beyond adult expansion, Virginia also has robust programs for pregnant women and children:

FAMIS Moms: This program provides comprehensive Medicaid coverage for pregnant women with household incomes up to 200% FPL. Coverage includes prenatal care, labor and delivery, and extended postpartum care for 12 months after birth. Applications can be made through commonhelp.virginia.gov.
FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security): Uninsured children in households with incomes up to 200% FPL are eligible for FAMIS, which offers low-cost health and dental coverage. For children between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select provides affordable coverage options.

These programs are vital safety nets, ensuring that vulnerable populations in Washington County have access to necessary medical care.

Local Healthcare Resources in Washington County

Washington County, home to 53,926 residents, is part of Virginia's Rating Area 6, which also covers Bristol, Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Norton, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, and Wise counties. The county's uninsured rate stands at 6.7%, and its primary acute care facility is Johnston Memorial Hospital in Abingdon, serving the local community. This hospital is a key resource for residents needing emergency services, surgical procedures, and other inpatient care. Understanding the local healthcare landscape, including available facilities and their network affiliations, is an important step in choosing a health plan that best meets your needs. All demographic figures cited are per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.

How to Enroll and Get Assistance in Washington County

Enrolling in a health insurance plan in Washington County requires careful consideration of your income, household size, and healthcare needs. The Marketplace Virginia, accessed via HealthCare.gov, is the central hub for individuals and families seeking subsidized private plans. If your income is below 138% FPL: You should first explore eligibility for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) through commonhelp.virginia.gov. If your income is between 100% and 400% FPL: You are likely eligible for Premium Tax Credits to lower your monthly premiums on marketplace plans. If your income is between 100% and 250% FPL: Consider a Silver-tier plan to maximize savings through Cost-Sharing Reductions, which reduce your out-of-pocket costs. The enrollment process can seem complex, but free assistance is available. Licensed health insurance producers can help Washington County residents navigate plan options, compare benefits and costs, and complete the application process at no additional charge. Their expertise ensures you understand your choices and enroll in a plan that provides appropriate coverage for your circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of health insurance plans are available in Washington County, VA?

In Washington County, residents can choose from Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans through the Marketplace Virginia. PPO plans are available on-exchange in Virginia, offering more flexibility in choosing providers.

Who qualifies for Virginia Medicaid in Washington County?

Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, making adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) eligible. This program, known as Virginia Medicaid Expansion or FAMIS Plus, provides comprehensive, no-premium coverage for qualifying Washington County residents.

Are there subsidies to help pay for marketplace health insurance in Washington County?

Yes, many Washington County residents qualify for financial assistance through the Marketplace Virginia. Premium Tax Credits can lower your monthly premiums, and Cost-Sharing Reductions can reduce deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums, especially for those with incomes up to 250% FPL.

Can pregnant women in Washington County get special health insurance?

Yes, pregnant women in Washington County may qualify for FAMIS Moms, a Virginia Medicaid program covering those with incomes up to 200% FPL. This includes comprehensive prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care.

What is Rating Area 6 and how does it affect plans in Washington County?

Washington County is part of Virginia's Rating Area 6. Health insurance premiums are determined at the rating area level, meaning all residents within Rating Area 6, which includes Bristol, Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Norton, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, Washington, and Wise counties, will see similar base rates for the same plans.