What is a key purpose of a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)?

• A. To coordinate Medicare and Medicaid benefits for dual-eligible individuals
• B. To provide only dental coverage
• C. To replace Medicare coverage
• D. To enroll only those under 65

Answer: (A)

The key purpose of a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan is to coordinate Medicare and Medicaid benefits for people who qualify for both programs. These plans are designed to align coverage, care management, and payments across Medicare and Medicaid, reducing confusion, duplicative coverage, and out-of-pocket costs. They typically offer integrated care coordination, a single point of contact, and benefits that address both Medicare-covered services and Medicaid long-term supports and other assistance. This coordination helps ensure seamless access to needed services, rather than replacing Medicare or limiting eligibility to a specific age. Dual eligibility includes people who are older and those under 65 with qualifying disabilities, making the coordinated approach the core feature.