HealthKeepers Health Insurance Plans in Big Stone Gap, Virginia

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

In 2026, HealthKeepers is one of six carriers offering Marketplace Virginia plans in Rating Area 6, serving Big Stone Gap.
Virginia residents with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) may qualify for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus).
Marketplace Virginia offers Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans, with PPOs available on-exchange.
Big Stone Gap's uninsured rate is 4.6%, lower than the Wise County average of 6.5%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.

Navigating health insurance options in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, can seem complex, but understanding the local market and available plans makes the process straightforward. HealthKeepers is a prominent carrier offering various health insurance plans to residents in Big Stone Gap and the broader Virginia Rating Area 6. These plans are available through the official Marketplace Virginia, where eligible individuals and families can also access financial assistance to make coverage more affordable. Whether you are looking for an individual plan, family coverage, or need to understand your subsidy options, VirginiaPlanFinder.com can help you compare HealthKeepers plans alongside other local providers.

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What HealthKeepers Plans Are Available in Big Stone Gap?

HealthKeepers offers a range of health insurance plans through the Marketplace Virginia, catering to different needs and budgets. In Virginia, Marketplace shoppers can choose from Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plan structures. This means you have options beyond just HMO or EPO plans, with PPOs available on-exchange. Understanding these plan types is crucial:

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO): Typically requires you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the plan's network and get referrals for specialists. HMOs often have lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO): Offers more flexibility, allowing you to see any doctor or specialist without a referral, both in and out of network (though out-of-network care typically costs more). PPOs generally have higher premiums than HMOs.
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO): Similar to an HMO in that it generally does not cover care outside the network, but you might not need a referral to see a specialist within the network.

HealthKeepers provides plans across various metal tiers—Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum—each designed with different cost-sharing structures. Bronze plans have lower premiums but higher deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums, suitable for those who expect minimal medical care. Gold and Platinum plans offer higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs, ideal for individuals who anticipate more frequent medical needs. Silver plans are a popular choice, especially for those who qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs), which further reduce deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums.

Understanding Subsidies and Affordability in Big Stone Gap

Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies are available to help make health insurance more affordable for residents of Big Stone Gap. These subsidies, known as Premium Tax Credits, reduce your monthly premium payments. Additionally, Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) can lower your out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Eligibility for Premium Tax Credits is based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). In Virginia, if your income falls between 100% and 400% FPL, you are likely eligible for premium subsidies. For example, a single individual in Big Stone Gap with an income between approximately $14,580 and $58,320 (2023 FPL, subject to annual adjustment) could qualify for assistance. Cost-Sharing Reductions are exclusively available with Silver-tier plans and are for individuals and families with incomes up to 250% FPL. These reductions enhance the value of Silver plans, making them a very attractive option by significantly lowering your financial exposure when you use medical services.

Virginia Medicaid and FAMIS Plus

Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019 (Virginia Medicaid Expansion / FAMIS Plus), meaning adults with income up to 138% FPL may qualify for comprehensive, low-cost health coverage. This is a crucial safety net for many residents in Big Stone Gap. For pregnant women, Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Moms) covers those with income up to 200% FPL, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security) also covers uninsured children in households up to 200% FPL, with FAMIS Select offering low-cost coverage for children between 200% and 400% FPL. You can apply for these programs through commonhelp.virginia.gov.

Health Insurance Carriers in Big Stone Gap

In 2026, six carriers offer marketplace plans in Virginia Rating Area 6, which covers Bristol, Buchanan, Dickenson, Lee, Norton, Russell, Scott, Tazewell, Washington, Wise counties. This ensures a competitive market with a variety of plan options for residents of Big Stone Gap. HealthKeepers is one of these providers. The confirmed carriers for Rating Area 6 include:

CareFirst BlueChoice
Cigna
HealthKeepers
Oscar Health
Sentara Health Plans
United Healthcare

Wise County, where Big Stone Gap is located, has a population of 35,448 and an uninsured rate of 6.5%, per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates. The city of Big Stone Gap itself has a population of 5,162 and a lower uninsured rate of 4.6%, but a higher poverty rate of 26.2%. Lonesome Pine Hospital in Big Stone Gap is the primary acute care facility in Wise County, providing essential local healthcare services.

Making Your Health Insurance Decision in Big Stone Gap

Choosing the right health insurance plan requires evaluating your healthcare needs, budget, and eligibility for financial assistance. Here's a guide to help you decide:

Your Situation	Recommended Action	Key Considerations
Low Income (below 138% FPL)	Apply for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) at commonhelp.virginia.gov.	Virginia Medicaid provides comprehensive coverage with little to no cost.
Moderate Income (100% - 250% FPL)	Explore Silver plans on Marketplace Virginia with Cost-Sharing Reductions.	You'll receive significant subsidies for both premiums and out-of-pocket costs, making Silver plans a strong value.
Higher Income (250% - 400% FPL)	Compare Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans on Marketplace Virginia with Premium Tax Credits.	You may still qualify for premium subsidies. Choose a metal tier based on your expected healthcare usage and budget.
No Subsidy Eligibility (above 400% FPL)	Compare all metal tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) on Marketplace Virginia or directly with carriers.	Focus on finding the best balance of premium and deductible for your needs.

A licensed health insurance producer can provide personalized guidance, helping you compare HealthKeepers plans with other local carriers, understand your subsidy eligibility, and enroll in a plan that meets your specific requirements. This service is free to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of HealthKeepers plans are available in Big Stone Gap?

HealthKeepers, along with other carriers in Virginia, offers a range of plan types including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans on the Marketplace Virginia. PPO plans are available on-exchange in Virginia, giving you more flexibility.

Can I get a subsidy for HealthKeepers plans in Big Stone Gap?

Yes, if your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for subsidies (Premium Tax Credits) to reduce your monthly premium for HealthKeepers plans or other Marketplace Virginia plans. Individuals and families can also qualify for cost-sharing reductions on Silver plans if their income is below 250% FPL.

Is HealthKeepers a major health insurance provider in Big Stone Gap's region?

HealthKeepers is one of six confirmed carriers offering health insurance plans in Virginia Rating Area 6, which includes Big Stone Gap and Wise County. Other carriers include CareFirst BlueChoice, Cigna, Oscar Health, Sentara Health Plans, and United Healthcare. This ensures a competitive selection of plans for residents.

Where can I receive care with a HealthKeepers plan in Big Stone Gap?

With a HealthKeepers plan, you will have access to a network of local providers, including Lonesome Pine Hospital in Big Stone Gap. The specific network will depend on your plan type (HMO, PPO, or EPO). It is always advisable to verify that your preferred doctors and facilities are in-network before enrolling.

What is the enrollment period for HealthKeepers plans in Big Stone Gap?

The primary enrollment period for ACA plans, including HealthKeepers, is during the annual Open Enrollment Period, which typically runs from November 1st to January 15th for coverage starting the following year. Outside of this period, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a qualifying life event like marriage, birth of a child, or loss of other coverage.