What are the different types of Special Needs Plans (SNPs) in Medicare?
Answered by 8 licensed agents
C-SNP — Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan
These plans are for people with certain serious or disabling health conditions, such as diabetes, chronic heart failure, certain cardiovascular or lung conditions, cancer, dementia, kidney disease and other qualifying conditions.
The plan is designed around the condition, including its doctors, prescription coverage and care coordination.
D-SNP — Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan
These plans are for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. A D-SNP helps coordinate the Medicare and Medicaid benefits and may include additional help with costs and services depending on the person's Medicaid eligibility.
I-SNP — Institutional Special Needs Plan
These are generally for people who live in a nursing home or other qualifying care facility, expect to live there for at least 90 days, or in some cases live at home but need the same level of care provided in an institution.
All SNPs include Medicare Part D prescription coverage. You also need Medicare Parts A and B, must live in the plan's service area, and must meet that particular plan's eligibility requirements.
The important thing is that a Special Needs Plan is not simply a Medicare Advantage plan with better extras. It is designed around a specific health, Medicaid, or care situation, so the first question is which type of SNP, if any, actually fits your circumstances.
Answered by Jeremy Harkins on September 21, 2026
Broker Licensed in TN, AR, CA & 5 other states
C-SNP are for people with chronic medical conditions such as Diabetes, Chronic Lung Conditions, Heart Conditions including but not limited CAD and Heart valve disease to name a few, cardiovascular disease which are conditions that effect the heart and blood vessels (stroke and heart failure).
D-SNP individuals who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid.
I-SNP individuals who reside in an institution and/or receive the level of care of institutions.
Answered by Betty Evans on August 25, 2026
Agent Licensed in FL
A C-SNP is a Chronic Special Needs Plan. These plans are designed to give extra attention and some extra benefits to beneficiaries with qualifying chronic conditions. The most common conditions are Diabetes, Chronic Heart Failure and Cardiovascular disease. However, each state my have different rules so check your state.
A D-SNP is a Dual Special Needs Plan. These plans are designed to address the needs of beneficiaries with extremely limited income and resources. These plans may offer additional support in paying Part B and Part D copays and coinsurance as well as offering grocery and utility benefits.
Answered by Mark Bilgere on August 26, 2026
Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK
Answered by Terri McClinton on September 5, 2026
Agent Licensed in PA, GA, MI & NJ, NY, OK & TX
Special Needs plans include those that are Dual-Eligible (have Medicare and Medicaid)
Chronic Illness Special Needs Plans are plans for people with certain chronic conditions and
Institutional Special Needs Plans are for those that are expected to be in a long term care facility for longer than 90 days.
Answered by Heather Majka on August 25, 2026
Broker Licensed in TN, AL, AR & 20 other states
Answered by Alecia McMath on August 26, 2026
Broker Licensed in MS, AL, AR & 30 other states
Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer on August 24, 2026
Broker Licensed in AZ & CA
Answered by Voss Speros on August 24, 2026
Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, CO & 20 other states
Tags: Coverage Eligibility Medicare Advantage
Agents: Share Your Expertise
Have insights or experiences related to this topic? Help others by sharing your knowledge and answering this question.
Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own
Questions are generally answered within 1 to 3 business days. Receive valuable perspectives from multiple licensed agents and brokers.
Ask a Question