Quick answer: Yes, most Virginia Medicaid members can use urgent care for same-day illnesses and injuries. Virginia Medicaid is called Cardinal Care, and most members get benefits through one of five managed care health plans: Aetna Better Health of Virginia, Anthem HealthKeepers Plus, Humana Healthy Horizons in Virginia, Sentara Health Plans and UnitedHealthcare. PACS Urgent Care participates with Medicaid and several of these plans. Call (571) 656-8838 to confirm your plan before your visit.
If you have Medicaid in Virginia, urgent care can save you a long ER wait for problems like ear infections, sprains, fevers or UTIs. Here’s how coverage works.
New to PACS? Start with our complete guide to urgent care in Alexandria, VA.
What is Cardinal Care?
Cardinal Care is the name for Virginia’s Medicaid and FAMIS programs, run by the Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). In October 2023, Virginia combined its two managed care programs into one, called Cardinal Care Managed Care. Since July 1, 2025, members are served by five health plans:
- Aetna Better Health of Virginia
- Anthem HealthKeepers Plus
- Humana Healthy Horizons in Virginia
- Sentara Health Plans
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
Your plan name is printed on your member ID card.
Does Medicaid cover urgent care in Virginia?
Generally yes, when the clinic is in your plan’s network. Urgent care visits, rapid tests, X-rays and many treatments are usually covered with little or no out-of-pocket cost. Some plans have rules about which clinics you can use, so always check that the clinic is in-network.
Using Cardinal Care at PACS
PACS participates with Medicaid, Anthem HealthKeepers Plus, WellCare and other plans. See our full insurance accepted list. Because plan networks change, call us or your plan’s member services before your visit.
Both PACS clinics serve Medicaid patients: Alexandria (open 7 days, 8 AM – 8 PM) and Ruther Glen (weekdays 8 AM – 8 PM, weekends 9 AM – 5 PM).
What to bring
- Your Cardinal Care or health plan member ID card
- A photo ID (for adults)
- A list of medicines and allergies
- For children: a parent or guardian
Urgent care, ER or your primary care provider?
Medicaid members are usually assigned a primary care provider (PCP). Use your PCP for checkups and ongoing care, urgent care for same-day problems that aren’t emergencies, and the ER for emergencies. Read urgent care vs. emergency room.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to use urgent care with Medicaid?
Usually not for in-network urgent care, but rules vary by plan. Check with your plan’s member services.
Does Medicaid cover school and sports physicals?
Coverage for physicals varies. Well-child visits are covered, but some sports-only forms may not be. Ask your plan.
What if my plan isn’t accepted?
You can choose another in-network clinic, or pay with our self-pay pricing.
Where can I learn more about Cardinal Care?
Visit the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services at dmas.virginia.gov.
Get care today at PACS Urgent Care
PACS Urgent Care – Alexandria
3481 N Beauregard St, Alexandria, VA 22302
Open 7 days a week, 8 AM – 8 PM · Walk-ins welcome
Call (571) 656-8838 · Get directions · New patient guide
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911.
