D-SNP plans: one plan for Medicare and Medicaid
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans combine your Medicare and Medicaid benefits into a single plan with one ID card.
What is a D-SNP?
A Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) is a type of Medicare Advantage plan designed specifically for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. Instead of managing two separate programs, a D-SNP coordinates both under one plan with a single ID card.
D-SNPs are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. For 2026, CMS is prioritizing D-SNPs as the preferred coverage model for dual-eligible beneficiaries, and enrollment in these plans has been growing rapidly — over 8 million people are now enrolled in Special Needs Plans.
What D-SNPs include
- All Medicare Part A and Part B benefits (hospital and medical coverage)
- Part D prescription drug coverage built into the plan
- Coordination with Medicaid — the plan works with your state to align benefits
- Care coordination — a dedicated team helps manage your healthcare needs
- Extra benefits many plans include dental, vision, hearing, transportation, meal delivery, fitness programs, and over-the-counter allowances
- Low or $0 out-of-pocket costs — Medicaid helps cover premiums, copays, and deductibles
D-SNP vs. standalone Part D
With a D-SNP, your drug coverage is built into the plan — you don't need a separate Part D plan. If you prefer Original Medicare instead, you can keep a standalone Part D plan and still receive Extra Help. Both options work well for dual-eligible beneficiaries. Compare your Part D options →
How D-SNPs are changing in 2026
- Unified grievances and appeals — one process for Medicare and Medicaid disputes instead of two separate systems
- Monthly enrollment changes — you can switch D-SNP plans once per month
- Stricter SSBCI rules — supplemental benefits for chronic conditions now require documented chronic conditions
- More plan options — the number of D-SNPs increased by 281 plans from 2025 to 2026
Who qualifies for a D-SNP?
To enroll in a D-SNP, you must:
- Be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B
- Be enrolled in Medicaid (full benefits or a Medicare Savings Program, depending on the plan)
- Live in the plan's service area
There are different types of D-SNPs based on your level of Medicaid eligibility — some require full Medicaid, while others are available to people with partial benefits through Medicare Savings Programs.
Should you choose a D-SNP or Original Medicare + Part D?
| D-SNP | Original Medicare + Part D | |
|---|---|---|
| Drug coverage | Built into the plan | Separate Part D plan needed |
| Doctor choice | Plan's network (HMO/PPO) | Any doctor accepting Medicare |
| Extra benefits | Often includes dental, vision, transportation | Not included (unless you add Medigap) |
| Care coordination | Yes — dedicated care team | You coordinate your own care |
| Flexibility | Must use network providers | See any Medicare provider nationwide |
| Monthly cost | Often $0 premium | Part D premium (often $0 with Extra Help) |
How to find and compare D-SNP plans
D-SNP availability varies by county and state. To see what's available in your area, you can compare plans online or work with someone who can walk you through the options:
Ready to take the next step?
There are several free ways to get help with your Medicare and Medicaid coverage:
You can also visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)