If you’re interested in Medicare, but are also in difficult circumstances (financial, health, or care requirements), there is a set of Medicare Advantage plans that will work to address those needs specifically. These are the Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNPs). Enrolling is fast and easy, and you can enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7 each year.
What Are the Requirements to Join a Special Needs Plan?
There are three different SNPs, which means there are a few ways you can qualify for enrollment. But regardless of the SNP you’re looking into, you need to be eligible for Medicare first.
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) are strictly for those who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. This varies by state; not because of Medicare, but because of Medicaid. Medicaid’s eligibility requirements differ between states, so it’s possible for you to qualify for a D-SNP in one state but not another. You’ll want to check your state’s guidelines to see if this one is available to you.
Chronic Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs) require a diagnosis of a chronic and serious illness, such as cancer, HIV, chronic heart failure, or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).
Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs) are for individuals living in institutions such as nursing homes or inpatient psychiatric facilities.
When Can I Join a Special Needs Plan?
Since these make up a category of Medicare Advantage plans, you’ll need to join during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) — from October 15 to December 7. You’ll be eligible as long as you’re enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) first.
Why Should I Enroll?
SNPs are among the most highly customized plans. Each one tackles your exact issue and needs head-on.
D-SNPs, for instance, have the most drastic impact on your savings. You’ll get coverage from Medicare and Medicaid together while paying nothing to enroll in this type of plan.
C-SNPs give the greatest discounts for the treatments and procedures related to your specific condition. This will help you save more than any other route, because of how frequent and extensive your treatments will likely be.
I-SNPs provide what no other Medicare plan offers coverage for in long-term care. This is an exception, and you’ll have considerable savings for the care you receive in the institution you’re staying in.
The benefits depend on the eligibility requirements. The SNP you’re able to get will be the one you want, because it will be the most relevant to your situation.
Another benefit is that all SNPs, no matter which one you get or who you purchase it from, will have prescription drug coverage.
How Can I Enroll in a Special Needs Plan?
You can trust the experts at Carolina Senior Benefits. When you call us, we’ll tell you which SNPs are available in your county and help guide you through each step. If you’re not able to obtain one, we can find you another Medicare Advantage plan that still gives you excellent coverage for a low price. Call us today at (704) 765-4689.
