Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)

Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) are for individuals who are eligible for both Medicare (title XVIII) and Medicaid (title XIX). Different states may have different eligibility requirements for Medicaid.

Additionally, there are various categories of Medicaid eligibility including:

  1. Full Medicaid
  2. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary without other Medicaid
  3. QMB Plus
  4. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary without other Medicaid
  5. SLMB Plus
  6. Qualifying Individual
  7. Qualified Disabled and Working Individual.

It is important to note that CMS no longer categorizes D-SNPs by subtype.

D-SNPs may offer Medicare zero-dollar cost sharing or Medicare non-zero dollar cost sharing, and this information is important for properly displaying benefits in the Medicare Plan Finder.

How Do I Qualify For A D-SNP Plan?

To qualify for a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP), you must be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicaid eligibility requirements vary by state, so you will need to check with your state’s Medicaid program to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria.

 

In general, Medicaid is available to low-income individuals and families, and certain groups of people who are at higher risk for health problems, such as pregnant women, children, and people with disabilities. To be eligible for Medicare, you must be 65 years of age or older, or you must meet certain disability requirements.

 

It is important to note that in addition to meeting the general eligibility requirements for Medicare and Medicaid, you may also need to meet additional criteria to enroll in a D-SNP.

 

For example, some D-SNPs may only be available to individuals who have certain chronic conditions or who live in a specific geographic area. It is a good idea to contact the D-SNP directly or visit the Medicare website to find out more about the specific eligibility requirements for these plans.

What Benefits Are Available On D-SNP Plans?

Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) are Medicare Advantage plans that are specifically designed to serve individuals who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. As such, D-SNPs typically offer a range of benefits that are similar to those offered by other Medicare Advantage plans, including:

  • Medical benefits: D-SNPs typically cover a wide range of medical services, including hospital stays, doctor’s visits, preventive care, and more.

  • Prescription drug coverage: Most D-SNPs offer prescription drug coverage as part of their benefits package.

  • Extra benefits: Some D-SNPs may also offer additional benefits, such as vision or dental coverage, or access to wellness programs and fitness activities.

  • Health Food Options: In some states, D-SNP plans include a monthly Health Food Option

  • Over-The-Counter Benefit: 

It is important to note that the specific benefits offered by a D-SNP will vary depending on the plan. It is a good idea to review the plan’s summary of benefits to get a full understanding of the coverage and services that are included. You can also contact the D-SNP directly or visit the Medicare website for more information about the benefits that are available.

What Are The Healthy Food Options?

It is not uncommon for Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) to offer benefits related to healthy eating and nutrition as part of their coverage. 

 

However, the specific healthy food options that are available will depend on the individual D-SNP and the benefits that it offers. 

 

Some D-SNPs may offer coverage for healthy food options through a program such as Meals on Wheels, while others may offer discounts on healthy food options at participating retailers.

 

It is a good idea to review the summary of benefits for your specific D-SNP to see what types of healthy food options are covered. You can also contact the D-SNP directly or visit the Medicare website for more information about the specific benefits that are available. 

 

In addition to any benefits offered through your D-SNP, you may also be able to access healthy food options through other programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) or WIC (Women, Infants, and Children). These programs are designed to help low-income individuals and families access nutritious food options.

How Can I Find Out Which D-SNP Plan I Qualify For?

The best option is to speak with an Independent Insurance Agent who can provide you with all the plans available to you in your zip code.