Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) provide great affordable healthcare coverage to those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. To fully understand what D-SNPs are and how they work, you have to consider your Medicare eligibility, Medicaid status, and have knowledge on Medicare Advantage.
Because D-SNPs are only available to those who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, you must consider your Medicare eligibility first. You must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B. The requirements for both plans are the same—you must meet at least one of these requirements:
Medicare Part A provides hospital coverage. To a certain limit, your medical expenses for short-term hospital and nursing facility/home care. Part B, on the other hand, covers general medical expenses. This includes benefits such as preventative care, ambulance services, diabetes supplies, durable medical equipment (DME), and more.
Medicaid eligibility is based on financial need, specifically your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). You are, however, exempt from most major monetary considerations if you have a serious disability (including blindness) and age (65 or older)—if you fall under these categories, your Medicaid eligibility is based on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) rather than MAGI.
If you receive Medicaid benefits and meet the Medicare requirements, you will likely be eligible for a D-SNP. D-SNP eligibility can be grouped into these categories. You qualify If you:
These terms are very confusing to the average person. The easiest way to determine if you are eligible for a D-SNP, then, is to contact your local Social Security office and ask if you fall within one of these qualifications.
When considering your D-SNP eligibility, then, you must consider your age/health, and your SSI.
D-SNPs fall under the category of Medicare Advantage. All Advantage plans, D-SNPs included, offer all of the aforementioned benefits of Original Medicare, as well as the coordinated healthcare services of Advantage plans to lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Because D-SNPs are more specialized than the average Advantage plan, they offer additional benefits, such as:
Still unsure if you qualify for a D-SNP? Do you qualify but need help enrolling in a plan? That’s why we’re here. Texas Medicare Advisors helps people just like you navigate and take control of their Medicare coverage. If you would like a consultation, give us a call today at 512-900-3008.
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