Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
What Are Medicare Special Needs Plans?
Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are a type of Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) designed for people who have specific health conditions, qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, or live in certain care facilities. These plans provide personalized healthcare coverage, including prescription drug benefits, care coordination, and specialized provider networks tailored to meet each member’s unique needs. All SNPs include Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance), Part B (Medical Insurance), and Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) — all under one plan managed by a private Medicare-approved insurance company.
Types of Medicare Special Needs Plans​
There are three main types of SNPs, each designed for a specific group of people:
​Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan (C-SNP)
A C-SNP is designed for individuals with one or more chronic or disabling health conditions such as:
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Diabetes
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Chronic Heart Failure
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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
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End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)
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Cardiovascular disorders
Key Benefits:
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Care coordination focused on your condition
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Specialized provider networks
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Extra support managing medications and treatments
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Coverage for hospital, doctor, and prescription costs
These plans connect you with providers who specialize in managing your specific condition — helping improve outcomes and reduce complications.
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)
A D-SNP is designed for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (also called “dual eligible” beneficiaries).
Key Benefits:
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$0 or low monthly premiums
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Reduced or no copays for most services
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Comprehensive coverage for hospital, medical, and drug costs
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Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and transportation
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Coordinated care between Medicare and Medicaid providers
D-SNPs make it easier to get all your benefits in one plan and help manage complex healthcare needs with extra financial protection.
Institutional Special Needs Plan (I-SNP)
An I-SNP is for individuals who live in a nursing home or need a similar level of care at home.
Key Benefits:
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On-site or in-home care coordination
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24/7 access to medical professionals
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Personalized care plans and support teams
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Focus on preventing hospital readmissions and improving quality of life
I-SNPs are designed to ensure that members receive consistent, coordinated care wherever they reside.
Why Consider a Medicare SNP?
If you qualify, a Medicare Special Needs Plan can give you:
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All-in-one coverage (hospital, medical, and drug benefits)
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Specialized provider networks for your health situation
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Extra benefits not offered by Original Medicare
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Coordinated care from healthcare professionals who understand your needs
Who Qualifies for a Special Needs Plan?
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You may qualify for a Medicare SNP if:
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You have a qualifying chronic health condition (C-SNP)
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You’re eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid (D-SNP)
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You live in a nursing facility or require a similar level of care (I-SNP)
Eligibility depends on your health status, income level, and where you live.