HealthKeepers Health Insurance in Pulaski County, VA
- HealthKeepers is one of 6 carriers offering marketplace plans in Pulaski County's Rating Area 5 for 2026.
- Both HMO and PPO plan types from HealthKeepers are available on Marketplace Virginia, providing choice for residents.
- Individuals in Pulaski County with incomes up to 400% FPL may qualify for significant subsidies to lower HealthKeepers premiums.
- Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) covers adults up to 138% FPL, while pregnant women and children qualify up to 200% FPL.
- Pulaski County, with a population of 33,687, has an uninsured rate of 5.5% as of U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.
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 HealthKeepers Plans Are Available in Pulaski County?
In 2026, HealthKeepers offers a range of health insurance plans to individuals and families in Pulaski County through Marketplace Virginia, which operates on HealthCare.gov. These plans typically fall into different metal tiers — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and sometimes Platinum — each offering a distinct balance of monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Pulaski County is part of Virginia 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. HealthKeepers provides both HMO and PPO options in this rating area.- HMO Plans: These plans typically require you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the HealthKeepers network. Your PCP coordinates your care and usually provides referrals to specialists. HMOs often have lower monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs when you stay within the network.
- PPO Plans: HealthKeepers also offers PPO plans, which provide more flexibility. With a PPO, you generally do not need a referral to see a specialist, and you have the option to receive care from out-of-network providers, though at a higher cost. PPO plans can be a good choice if you prefer more choice in providers or frequently travel.
Understanding Subsidies and Affordability for HealthKeepers Plans
Many Pulaski County residents qualify for financial assistance, known as subsidies, to help make HealthKeepers plans more affordable. These subsidies are available through Marketplace Virginia and can significantly reduce your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.Premium Tax Credits (PTC)
Premium Tax Credits lower your monthly premium payments. 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% FPL may qualify for these credits. For example, a family of four in Pulaski County with a household income of $80,000 (well within this range) could receive substantial premium assistance.Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR)
Cost-Sharing Reductions help lower your out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. CSRs are only available with Silver-tier plans. If your income is below 250% FPL, you may qualify for enhanced Silver plans that offer lower out-of-pocket maximums and reduced costs for medical services. These plans provide a strong value, combining moderate premiums with lower costs when you need care.Virginia Medicaid and FAMIS Plus
Virginia expanded Medicaid in 2019, meaning adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for comprehensive, low-cost health coverage through Virginia Medicaid or FAMIS Plus. For pregnant women, Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Moms) covers those with incomes up to 200% FPL, including 12 months of postpartum care. Children in households up to 200% FPL can qualify for FAMIS (Family Access to Medical Insurance Security) coverage. These programs provide vital safety nets for many families in Pulaski County.Health Insurance Carriers in Pulaski County
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 5, which includes Pulaski County. This provides residents with a strong selection of options beyond HealthKeepers. The confirmed carriers for this rating area are:- CareFirst BlueChoice
- Cigna
- HealthKeepers
- Oscar Health
- Sentara Health Plans
- United Healthcare
Choosing the Right HealthKeepers Plan in Pulaski County
Selecting the ideal HealthKeepers plan involves considering your healthcare needs, budget, and preferred provider access. Here's a guide to help you make an informed decision:| Income Level (Relative to FPL) | Recommendation | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Below 138% FPL | Apply for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) | Comprehensive coverage with no premiums or deductibles. |
| 100% - 250% FPL | Consider HealthKeepers Silver plans with Cost-Sharing Reductions | Lower deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums. Significant premium subsidies. |
| 251% - 400% FPL | Explore HealthKeepers Bronze, Silver, or Gold plans with Premium Tax Credits | Premium subsidies reduce monthly costs. Choose a tier based on anticipated medical use. |
| Above 400% FPL | Evaluate HealthKeepers Bronze, Silver, or Gold plans | No subsidies, but can still compare plans for network, benefits, and cost. |
- Premiums: Your monthly payment for coverage.
- Deductible: How much you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance starts to pay for most services.
- Copayments & Coinsurance: Fixed fees or percentages you pay for services after meeting your deductible.
- Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The most you will have to pay for covered services in a plan year.
- Provider Network: Ensure your preferred doctors, specialists, and facilities like Lewisgale Hospital Pulaski are in-network.
- Prescription Drug Coverage: Check the formulary to see if your medications are covered and at what cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of HealthKeepers plans are available in Pulaski County?
In Pulaski County, HealthKeepers offers both HMO and PPO plans through the Marketplace Virginia. These plans provide various levels of coverage and network flexibility to suit different healthcare needs.
Can I get subsidies for HealthKeepers plans in Pulaski County?
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 lower your monthly premiums on HealthKeepers plans purchased through Marketplace Virginia. Many individuals and families also qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions on Silver plans if their income is below 250% FPL.
Is Lewisgale Hospital Pulaski in-network with HealthKeepers plans?
HealthKeepers generally has broad networks in Virginia. It is important to verify directly with HealthKeepers or through the Marketplace Virginia plan details that Lewisgale Hospital Pulaski, the only acute care hospital in Pulaski County, is in-network for your specific plan before enrolling, especially for PPO plans where out-of-network costs can be higher.
How do I enroll in a HealthKeepers plan in Pulaski County?
You can enroll in a HealthKeepers plan during the annual Open Enrollment Period through Marketplace Virginia or HealthCare.gov. If you experience a Qualifying Life Event, such as losing other coverage, getting married, or having a baby, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. A licensed health insurance producer can assist you with the application process at no cost.
What is the difference between an HMO and PPO plan from HealthKeepers?
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans typically require you to choose a primary care provider (PCP) within the network and get referrals for specialists. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans offer more flexibility, allowing you to see specialists without a referral and often providing some coverage for out-of-network care, though usually at a higher cost.