Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)
A D-SNP is a Special Needs Plan for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. It coordinates benefits across both programs and often includes extra benefits and care coordination for dual-eligible members.
Understanding Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)
A Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) is a Medicare Advantage plan built for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. It coordinates benefits across the two programs so members get a single, streamlined experience, and it typically adds extra benefits beyond what either program offers on its own.
For beneficiaries, D-SNPs can dramatically lower costs and simplify care. Because Medicaid covers many of the cost-sharing amounts, members often pay little or nothing out of pocket, and plans frequently add benefits like over-the-counter allowances, transportation to appointments, dental, and care coordination. You must keep your Medicaid eligibility to remain enrolled.
For example, a D-SNP member might receive a monthly flex card for groceries and OTC items, $0 copays on doctor visits, and free rides to medical appointments — all coordinated through one plan and one care manager.
Have questions about Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans? Get a free Medicare review and we will confirm your eligibility and compare D-SNP options.
Related Terms
Special Needs Plan (SNP)
A Special Needs Plan is a type of Medicare Advantage plan that limits membership to people with specific characteristics — a chronic condition, both Medicare and Medicaid, or living in an institution — and tailors its benefits, formulary, and care coordination to that group.
Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan (C-SNP)
A C-SNP is a Special Needs Plan limited to people with a specific chronic condition, such as diabetes, chronic heart failure, or COPD. It tailors its provider network, drug formulary, and care coordination to that condition.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans include Part A, Part B, and usually Part D coverage in one plan.
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