Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNP)
A Special Needs Plan is a type of Medicare Advantage plan tailored to the needs of a specific group of beneficiaries — people with certain chronic conditions, people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, or people who meet institutional care criteria.
We can help you understand the three SNP types, what extra benefits they may include, and whether you qualify.
What Is a Special Needs Plan?
Rather than a general-purpose plan for anyone, a Special Needs Plan is built around the needs of a specific population, often including care coordination, disease management programs, and provider networks tailored to those needs.
The Three Types of Special Needs Plans
Chronic Condition SNP (C-SNP)
Designed for people with qualifying chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or other cardiovascular disorders, often with condition-specific care coordination.
Dual Eligible SNP (D-SNP)
Designed for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, coordinating benefits across both programs.
Institutional SNP (I-SNP)
Designed for people who meet institutional care criteria, such as living in a long-term care facility.
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Step 1 of 2 — Basic Info
Eligibility
You must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B, meet the specific criteria for the SNP type you're applying for (a qualifying condition, dual eligibility, or institutional care status), and live in the plan's service area.
Enrollment Periods
You can enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period, the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 – March 31), or a Special Enrollment Period tied to your qualifying condition or circumstance.
Extra Benefits
SNPs offer all the benefits of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) plus specialized care coordination, and often add dental, vision, hearing, prescription drug coverage, wellness programs, and gym memberships.
Cost Structure
Plans feature variable monthly premiums, some as low as $0, along with an out-of-pocket maximum that caps annual spending and standard cost-sharing such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Speak with a Licensed Insurance Agent Today
Get help finding out which Special Needs Plan, if any, you may qualify for. There is no cost and no obligation.