What is a D-SNP?
If you live in Delaware and get both Medicare and Medicaid, you are called a dual-eligible person. Delaware gives you the chance to join a special plan called a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP). A D-SNP is a type of Medicare plan that also includes Medicaid benefits. It helps make sure your healthcare, medicines, and bills are all managed together.
For example, if you see many doctors or take different medicines, your D-SNP will help your doctors work together and share information. This makes it easier for your doctors to give you the right care and plan your treatments.
How do you know if you are eligible for a D-SNP?
To join a D-SNP, you must:
Qualify for Delaware Medicaid. You can learn more about Medicaid eligibility here.
Have Medicare Parts A and B. You can check this on your Medicare Card.
When and how can you enroll in a D-SNP?
There are several times when dual-eligible people can sign up for a D-SNP:
- When you first become eligible for Medicare, you can join a D-SNP during the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) . This usually happens when you turn 65 years old. The IEP lasts for seven months, starting three months before your 65th birthday and ending three months afterward. If you are born on the first day of the month, your IEP starts four months before and ends two months after your birthday. If you get Medicare early because of a disability, kidney failure, or ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), and you also qualify for Medicaid, you can join a D-SNP at the same time.
- You can also join a D-SNP during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, also called Medicare Open Enrollment. This runs from October 15 to December 7 each year.
- Some people might be able to join a D-SNP during a Special Enrollment Period, which is a different time outside the regular periods.
Each plan may have slightly different steps to sign up. To learn more, visit their website or call.
| D-SNP | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| AmeriHealth VIP Care | Member services: 1-833-433-3767 If you’re not a member: 1-800-803-8931 |
| Delaware First Health (Wellcare) | Member services: 1-877-236-1341 |
| Highmark Health Options Duals | Member services: 1-855-401-8251 |
What are supplemental benefits?
Another good thing about signing up for a D-SNP is that some plans offer extra benefits beyond those covered by Medicaid and Medicare. These extra benefits can be different depending on the plan, and may include:
- Extra help at home
- Telehealth and online doctor visits
- Dental care
- Foot doctor (podiatry) services
- Emergency call systems you can wear or keep at home
- More hearing benefits
Where can I get more information?
- Call the number on the back of your D-SNP member ID card.
- Call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227.
- Call the Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau at 1-800-336-9500.
