Special Needs
Special medical situations require specialized care. Medicare Special Needs Plans (or SNPs) were created with this principle in mind.
SNP's
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 Chronic SNPs and Dual-Eligible SNPs.
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
You must be diagnosed with one or more of the following conditions to enroll into a Chronic Special Needs plan:
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
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.
Qualifying members may be eligible for over the counter benefits that help pay for healthy food, utilities or wellness support . Some plans may offer those eligible -transportation, dental, eyeglasses & a gym membership.
To qualify for Medicaid, call your local Social Security Office.