To speak with a licensed insurance agent

To speak with a licensed insurance agent

Special Needs

Medicare Special Needs Plans

Special medical situations require specialized care. Medicare Special Needs Plans (or SNPs) were created with this principle in mind.

SNP's

Medicare Special Needs Plans

Special Needs plans are Advantage Plans that are tailored to meet the needs of individuals with certain health conditions or circumstances.

Similar to Medicare Advantage Plans, you must have Original Medicare Parts A and B to enroll. Some other types of Special Needs Plans include Institutional SNPs and Dual-Eligible SNPs. A patient who is expected to be institutionalized for 90 days or longer might be eligible for an Institutional SNP, designed to coordinate the care of a patient no longer living independently.

Special Needs Plan’s networks of providers, benefits, and drug formulary are all centered on the patient’s condition to provide the appropriate care. You must continue to pay your Part B premiums as well unless Medicaid eligibility covers those.

 

Eligibility

Qualifying For Special Needs Plans

Qualifying for a Special Needs Plan is based on of chronic illness. You must be diagnosed with one or more of the following conditions to enroll into a Special Needs plan:

  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Alzheimer’s or dementia
  • Cancer
  • Cardiovascular disease, stroke, or chronic heart failure
  • Diabetes
  • End-stage renal disease, requiring dialysis
  • Hematologic disorders
  • HIV or AIDS
  • Chronic lung disorders (such as COPD)
  • Chronic or disabling mental illness
  • Neurological conditions

Chronic illness Special Needs plans vary state, county, and zip code, just like a Medicare Advantage plan. Therefore, not all patients with chronic conditions will be able to locate a plan designed around their needs in their area. A licensed insurance professional can offer more assistance in locating these plans.

Application

What Is A Dual-Eligible
Special Needs Plans?

Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plans, or DSNPs, are available to individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare is supplied from the federal government. Medicaid is supplied by your state and offer financial assistance for those with low income, to help them pay for their healthcare needs. In many cases Medicaid will pay the premiums, along with a significant portion of co-pays and deductibles. To qualify for Medicaid, call your local Social Security Office.