Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
Advantage plans designed around specific health and income needs.
Overview
Special Needs Plans are a type of Medicare Advantage plan. They include hospital, medical and drug coverage, plus care coordination and benefits built for the people they serve.
There are three kinds. Dual-eligible SNPs (D-SNPs) are for people with both Medicare and Florida Medicaid. Chronic condition SNPs (C-SNPs) are for people with qualifying conditions like diabetes, chronic heart failure or cardiovascular disorders. Institutional SNPs (I-SNPs) are for people living in a nursing home or needing that level of care at home.
D-SNPs in Sarasota and Manatee counties often include generous over-the-counter allowances, transportation to appointments and healthy food benefits. We verify your eligibility before you apply so there are no surprises.
What's included
All Advantage benefits
Hospital, medical and prescription drug coverage in one plan.
Care coordinator
A nurse or coordinator who helps manage appointments and medications.
Over-the-counter allowance
Monthly or quarterly credit for health and wellness items.
Transportation
Rides to medical appointments and the pharmacy on many plans.
Healthy food benefits
Grocery allowances for qualifying members with chronic conditions.
Condition-specific programs
Diabetes supplies, heart monitoring and education programs.
How we help you choose
Our process for special needs plans takes about an hour of your time, spread over one or two conversations.
Check eligibility
We confirm your Medicaid level or qualifying condition with you.
Verify with your doctor
C-SNPs require a provider to confirm your diagnosis after enrollment.
Match doctors and drugs
We check networks and formularies just like any Advantage plan.
Coordinate with Medicaid
We explain how your Medicare and Medicaid benefits work together.
Why people choose it
Lower out-of-pocket costs
Many D-SNP members pay $0 for most covered services.
Help managing care
A care team that knows your conditions and medications.
More everyday support
OTC, food and transportation benefits add real monthly value.
What it costs
Costs depend on your county, carrier and income. These sample figures help you budget.
| Cost | Sample amount | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Plan premium | $0 | Typical for D-SNPs with full Medicaid (sample) |
| Doctor visits | $0 | For many dual-eligible members |
| OTC allowance | $75 - $300/quarter | Sample local range |
| Prescriptions | $0 - $12.65 | With Extra Help, sample 2026 figures |
| C-SNP premiums | $0 - $45/mo | Sample range |
Figures are samples for illustration and are not a quote. Confirm current amounts on Medicare.gov or with a licensed agent.
Special Needs Plans questions
Ask us anything else on a free call.
You need Medicare Parts A and B and some level of Florida Medicaid. We can review your Medicaid letter and tell you which plans you can join.
Many dual-eligible and Extra Help members have a special enrollment period that allows changes at certain times. We keep track of it for you.
Plans usually give a grace period. We help you reapply or move to a different plan before coverage ends.
Get help with Special Needs Plans
Free, no-pressure help comparing the plans we offer in your county. Most calls take about 20 minutes.
Licensed agents. TTY 711. Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 9am-2pm ET.
