Sentara Health Insurance Plans in Petersburg, Virginia
- Sentara Health Plans is one of six carriers offering health insurance through Marketplace Virginia in Petersburg's Rating Area 3 for 2026.
- Petersburg residents may qualify for Virginia Medicaid (FAMIS Plus) if their income is up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- Marketplace Virginia offers PPO, HMO, and EPO plan types, with subsidies available for individuals and families earning between 100% and 400% FPL.
- Petersburg, an independent city with a population of 33,537, has an uninsured rate of 6.5% as of U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates.
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What Health Insurance Options Are Available in Petersburg?
Petersburg, Virginia, is part of Rating Area 3, which covers Charles City, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie, Goochland, Hanover, Henrico, Hopewell, New Kent, Petersburg, Powhatan, Richmond, Richmond counties. Residents here have access to a robust marketplace through Marketplace Virginia, the state-based marketplace using the federal platform (SBM-FP). Unlike some states, Virginia offers a variety of plan types on-exchange, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans. This allows for greater flexibility in choosing a plan that balances network access with cost. For individuals and families, the primary pathway to health coverage is through Marketplace Virginia. Depending on household income, significant subsidies are available to reduce monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Those with incomes between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) can receive premium tax credits. Additionally, if your income is between 100% and 250% FPL, you may also qualify for cost-sharing reductions, which lower deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums when you enroll in a Silver-tier plan.Understanding Sentara Health Plans in Petersburg
Sentara Health Plans is a prominent carrier offering health insurance options to residents of Petersburg and the broader Rating Area 3. Their plans are designed to provide comprehensive coverage for essential health benefits, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health services, and preventive care. Sentara Health Plans typically offers a selection of metal-tier plans (Bronze, Silver, Gold), each with different cost-sharing structures. When considering Sentara Health Plans, it is important to review their specific network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals to ensure your preferred providers are included. For Petersburg residents, this often means access to local facilities such as Bon Secours Southside Medical Center. Sentara Health Plans' network aims to provide integrated care within the Virginia region.Medicaid and FAMIS Programs for Petersburg Residents
Virginia has expanded its Medicaid program, known as Virginia Medicaid Expansion or FAMIS Plus, making it available to adults with household incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. This means that if your income falls within this range, you may qualify for comprehensive, low-cost or free health coverage through Medicaid, rather than facing a coverage gap. Additionally, Virginia offers robust programs for pregnant women and children:- FAMIS Moms: Pregnant women with incomes up to 200% FPL can receive coverage for prenatal care, labor and delivery, and 12 months of postpartum care. Applications can be submitted through commonhelp.virginia.gov.
- FAMIS (Children's Health Insurance Program): Uninsured children in households with incomes up to 200% FPL are eligible for comprehensive coverage. For children with incomes between 200% and 400% FPL, FAMIS Select offers low-cost health insurance.
Health Insurance Carriers in Petersburg
In 2026, 6 carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 3, providing Petersburg residents with several choices for their health insurance needs. These carriers compete to offer a variety of plans across different metal tiers and plan types (HMO, PPO, EPO). The confirmed carriers for Petersburg's Rating Area 3 are:- CareFirst BlueChoice
- Cigna
- HealthKeepers
- Oscar Health
- Sentara Health Plans
- United Healthcare
Choosing the Right Plan in Petersburg
Selecting the best health insurance plan depends on your individual health needs, financial situation, and preferred access to doctors and hospitals. Here’s a guide to help Petersburg residents make an informed decision:- Assess Your Income: Determine if you qualify for Virginia Medicaid (under 138% FPL) or for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions on Marketplace Virginia (100-400% FPL). These subsidies can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
- Consider Plan Type: Decide between an HMO, PPO, or EPO. HMOs generally have lower premiums but restrict you to a network, often requiring referrals. PPOs offer more flexibility to see out-of-network providers (at a higher cost) and typically don't require referrals. EPOs are similar to HMOs with a defined network but usually don't require referrals.
- Evaluate Metal Tiers:
- Bronze: Lowest premiums, highest out-of-pocket costs. Best for those who expect minimal medical care.
- Silver: Moderate premiums, moderate out-of-pocket costs. Best for those who qualify for cost-sharing reductions or have average medical needs.
- Gold: Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket costs. Best for those who expect significant medical care and prefer lower costs when they use services.
- Check Provider Networks: Ensure your preferred doctors, specialists, and hospitals (such as Bon Secours Southside Medical Center) are included in the plan's network before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of Sentara Health Plans are available in Petersburg, Virginia?
In Petersburg and Virginia's Rating Area 3, Sentara Health Plans typically offer a range of plan types, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Point of Service (POS) plans, through the Marketplace Virginia exchange. Specific plan offerings can vary by year and metal tier.
Can I get a subsidy for Sentara Health Plans in Petersburg?
Yes, if you purchase a Sentara Health Plan through Marketplace Virginia and your household income is between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for premium tax credits (subsidies) to lower your monthly premiums. Additional cost-sharing reductions are available for those with incomes up to 250% FPL who choose Silver plans.
Which hospitals in Petersburg accept Sentara Health Plans?
Sentara Health Plans typically have a network that includes major hospitals in Virginia. For Petersburg residents, this often includes facilities like Bon Secours Southside Medical Center. It's always crucial to verify specific network participation for any plan you consider directly with Sentara Health Plans or through their provider directory to ensure your preferred doctors and hospitals are covered.
Is Sentara Health Plans the only option for health insurance in Petersburg?
No, Sentara Health Plans is one of six carriers offering marketplace plans in Petersburg's Rating Area 3 for 2026. Other options include CareFirst BlueChoice, Cigna, HealthKeepers, Oscar Health, and United Healthcare, providing a variety of choices for residents.