State programs
Cardinal Care (Virginia Medicaid)
Cardinal Care is the name for Virginia's Medicaid and related health coverage programs, including Medicaid, FAMIS, and Plan First. The Department of Medical Assistance Services runs it. Virginia adopted the name on January 1, 2023. On October 1, 2023, the state merged two managed care programs into Cardinal Care Managed Care.
Why it matters for your family
The merger removed the need to switch programs when health needs change. Members who needed long-term services under the older CCC Plus program stayed in coverage without taking action. Five health plans offered Cardinal Care Managed Care starting July 1, 2025. The CCC Plus Waiver still has its own name for home and community-based services. A common mistake is to think the name change ended the waiver. Check the DMAS website or call the Cover Virginia line for your current plan options. The same website lists covered services and how to change a plan.
Source: dmas.virginia.gov
Read more: Home care in Virginia
Related terms
- Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus (CCC Plus) Waiver (Virginia)The Commonwealth Coordinated Care Plus Waiver is a Virginia Medicaid waiver that pays for care at home for older adults, people with physical disabilities, and people who are chronically ill and need ongoing skilled nursing care.
- Medicaid managed long-term services and supports (MLTSS)Medicaid managed long-term services and supports, or MLTSS, is a way states deliver long-term care through managed care plans.
- MedicaidMedicaid is a joint federal and state health coverage program for people with limited income and resources.
- Medicaid eligibilityMedicaid eligibility for long-term care depends on need, income, and assets.
- Care coordinatorA care coordinator is a person who organizes a person's care among doctors, agencies, and family.
- Dual eligibleA dual eligible is a person who has both Medicare and Medicaid.
