CareFirst of Maryland Health Insurance in Garrett County, MD

CareFirst of Maryland offers both HMO and PPO plans on the Maryland Health Connection marketplace in Garrett County.
Garrett County is part of Maryland Rating Area 1, served by 4 health insurance carriers in 2026, including CareFirst of Maryland.
Maryland residents with incomes up to 400% FPL may qualify for federal subsidies, with additional state subsidies available to reduce premium costs.
Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) covers adults up to 138% FPL, pregnant women up to 250% FPL, and children up to 300% FPL.

Navigating health insurance options in Garrett County, Maryland, involves understanding the plans available through the Maryland Health Connection, the state's official marketplace. CareFirst of Maryland is a prominent carrier offering health insurance plans to residents of Garrett County for the 2026 plan year. These plans include both Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) options, providing flexibility in how you access care. Maryland's expanded Medicaid program, known as Maryland Medicaid or HealthChoice, also provides comprehensive coverage for eligible low-income residents, ensuring that a broad range of options are available to meet the diverse needs of the community.

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What Are Your CareFirst of Maryland Plan Options in Garrett County?

CareFirst of Maryland provides a variety of health insurance plans through the Maryland Health Connection in Garrett County. These plans are designed to meet different budget and coverage needs, from catastrophic plans for those under 30 or with a hardship exemption, to Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers. Unlike some states, Maryland's marketplace offers a full range of plan types, including HMO, PPO, and Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) plans. CareFirst of Maryland and CareFirst BlueChoice both offer PPO and HMO variants, giving consumers in Garrett County the flexibility to choose a plan that allows for out-of-network care or one that prioritizes a primary care provider referral system. Understanding the differences between these plan structures is key to selecting the right coverage for your family.

How Do Subsidies and Medicaid Affect Your Costs in Garrett County?

Maryland has an expanded Medicaid program, called Maryland Medicaid or HealthChoice, which provides coverage for adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). This means that residents of Garrett County who meet the income criteria may qualify for free or low-cost health insurance. For those with incomes above the Medicaid threshold but below 400% FPL, federal premium tax credits are available through the Maryland Health Connection to significantly reduce monthly premiums. Additionally, Maryland offers state-specific subsidies, further enhancing affordability for many residents. Pregnant women in Maryland can qualify for Medicaid up to 250% FPL, and children are covered by the Maryland Children's Health Program (MCHP) up to 300% FPL. These programs are crucial for ensuring access to care for vulnerable populations in Garrett County.

2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Guidelines for Maryland Subsidies
Household Size	138% FPL (Medicaid Eligibility)	250% FPL (Enhanced Silver Eligibility)	400% FPL (Max Subsidy Eligibility)
1	$20,783	$37,650	$60,240
2	$28,207	$51,100	$81,760
3	$35,631	$64,550	$103,280
4	$43,055	$78,000	$124,800
5	$50,479	$91,450	$146,320
Figures are approximate and subject to change annually. Consult Maryland Health Connection for precise eligibility.

Health Insurance Carriers in Garrett County

Garrett County is part of Maryland Rating Area 1, which covers Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, Prince George's, Queen Anne's, Somerset, St. Mary's, Talbot, Washington, Wicomico, Worcester counties. In 2026, four carriers offer marketplace plans in Rating Area 1, providing residents with a range of choices for their health coverage. These confirmed local carriers include:

CareFirst BlueChoice
CareFirst of Maryland
Optimum Choice
Wellpoint

Residents can compare plans from these carriers on the Maryland Health Connection to find the best fit for their healthcare needs and budget. Each carrier offers various plan tiers and types, ensuring diverse options across the county. Garrett County, with a population of 28,615 and a median income of $67,688 per U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2024 5-year estimates, faces unique healthcare access considerations. The county's 6.2% uninsured rate is lower than the state average, reflecting the impact of Maryland's expanded Medicaid and robust marketplace options. Garrett Regional Medical Center in Oakland serves as the primary acute care hospital for county residents, offering essential local services within Rating Area 1.

Making Your Health Insurance Decision in Garrett County

Choosing a health insurance plan involves evaluating your specific needs, budget, and access to care. Start by visiting the Maryland Health Connection to explore all available plans in Garrett County.

If your income is below 138% FPL: You likely qualify for Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice), offering comprehensive, low-cost coverage.
If your income is between 100% and 400% FPL: You are eligible for federal premium tax credits, which can significantly lower your monthly premiums. Consider a Silver-tier plan for additional cost-sharing reductions if your income is below 250% FPL.
If your income is above 400% FPL: You can still purchase a plan through the Maryland Health Connection, but you will pay the full premium without federal subsidies. Compare plans from all four carriers to find the most competitive rates.

A licensed health insurance producer can provide personalized guidance through this process at no cost to you, helping you compare CareFirst of Maryland plans with other options and navigate enrollment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of health insurance plans does CareFirst of Maryland offer in Garrett County?

In Garrett County, CareFirst of Maryland offers both HMO and PPO health insurance plans through the Maryland Health Connection marketplace. These plan types provide different levels of flexibility for choosing doctors and hospitals, with PPO plans generally allowing out-of-network care at a higher cost.

Can I get a subsidy for a CareFirst of Maryland plan in Garrett County?

Yes, if your household income falls between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions when enrolling in a CareFirst of Maryland plan through the Maryland Health Connection. Maryland also offers state-specific subsidies to further lower costs for eligible residents.

Is CareFirst of Maryland the only option for health insurance in Garrett County?

No, CareFirst of Maryland is one of four carriers offering health insurance plans in Garrett County's Rating Area 1 for 2026. Residents can also choose from plans offered by CareFirst BlueChoice, Optimum Choice, and Wellpoint through the Maryland Health Connection marketplace.

What is the Maryland Health Connection?

The Maryland Health Connection is Maryland's official state-based health insurance marketplace. It is where individuals and families can compare health plans, apply for financial assistance like subsidies and Medicaid, and enroll in coverage. It serves as the primary portal for obtaining ACA-compliant health insurance in Garrett County and across the state.