How to Tell if Someone Already Has Medicaid in Virginia
If you are trying to get paid as a family caregiver in Virginia, the first thing you need to confirm is simple: Does the person already have Virginia Medicaid?
In most cases, you can confirm this in just a few minutes.
This page is part of our Virginia Medicaid Eligibility guide for caregivers.
1. Look for the "Cardinal Care" Logo (Fastest Check)
In Virginia, Medicaid is now called Cardinal Care. Most people will have a white card with a red bird logo on it.
Aetna Cardinal Care card
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-1
(Enhanced Photo)
What if they have an old card? That's okay! If you see an older blue and white card that says "Commonwealth of Virginia," it is still valid. As long as it's from the state, you are on the right track.
Commonwealth of Virginia old card
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-2
(Enhanced Photo)
Note: If the card shows a private company name, that can still be Virginia Medicaid. These companies provide Medicaid plans in Virginia:
- Sentara [Community Plan] (formerly Optima)
Sentara Logo
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-3
Optima Health Logo
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-4
- UnitedHealthcare [Community Plan]
UnitedHealthcare Logo
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-5
- Anthem [HealthKeepers Plus]
Anthem HealthKeepers Plus Logo
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-6
- Aetna [Better Health]
Aetna Logo
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-7
- Humana [Healthy Horizons]
Humana Healthy Horizons Logo
how-to-tell-if-someone-already-has-medicaid-in-virginia-8
2. Watch out for "Plan First"
Look closely at the card. If it says "Plan First" (sometimes at the bottom), it is a limited plan that only pays for basic things like doctor visits. It will not pay you to be a caregiver. (But we can help you apply for the right Medicaid plan that will!)
For official info on the "Plan First" program, click here: Plan First program details
3. If you can't find the card
Look for these other clues of Virginia Medicaid coverage:
- The Mail: Look for letters from DMAS or CommonHelp.
- The Pharmacy: Check a medicine receipt. If the cost was $0.00 or under $5.00, they likely have Virginia Medicaid, because Medicaid provides great coverage!
- The Doctor: If they go to appointments but you never see a bill in the mail, the state is likely paying for it.
4. Ask the State (The Official Way)
If you still aren't sure, you can check with the Commonwealth of Virginia directly.
- Check Online: Virginia CommonHelp
- Call by Phone: Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282
Let us do the hard work! Calling the state can mean sitting on hold. We can check the Virginia Medicaid system for you for free and let you know the results in 1 to 2 business days.
Common Questions
If they have Medicare, does that mean they have Medicaid?
No. They are different programs. Medicaid is required to qualify for paid family caregiving in Virginia.
See: Medicare vs. Medicaid — What Caregivers Need to Know
Could Medicaid have stopped?
Yes. Medicaid must be renewed. If renewal paperwork was missed, coverage can close.
This is common and often fixable.
What if they do not have Medicaid yet?
Many people who do not currently have Medicaid may still qualify. See: How to Qualify for Medicaid in Virginia (Who Is Eligible?)