Too Good to Be True? The Truth Behind Special Needs Advantage Plan Marketing Tactics

Several deceptive strategies have been identified in the promotion of Special Needs Advantage Plans (SNPs).

You may be getting an unusually large amount of email, mail and information on TV and radio touting the additional benefits that you may be eligible for on a Medicare Advantage plan like grocery cards, help with utility bills and other perks. This may be highly appealing, but there may be a catch. Here are some things to consider about these plans and why they may not be the best choice for everyone.

Navigating D-SNP Options Wisely

First of all, don’t talk to telemarketers! Or call a toll-free number on any advertising. If in doubt, ask us if it’s legitimate.

The only Advantage plan that you can change to right now, outside of specific enrollment periods, are SNP’s (Special Needs Plans) and you must qualify based on low income or medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Benefits vary widely by plan and location and may not be available where you live.

There are often limited networks for medical usage such as an HMO network and higher out-of-pocket costs for your medical care.

There may be restricted network for the perks like grocery cards and where you can use them.

Are the Perks Worth it?

They can be helpful if you qualify for Medicaid or Extra Help or have a covered medical condition, would utilize the extra benefits and your current doctors and facilities are in-network.

And you take the time to compare your current benefits to the ones being offered by the SNP, particularly the network and max-out-of-pocket. A few hundred dollars’ worth of groceries or utility payments might not make sense if your max-out-of-pocket goes up by thousands of dollars.

If you think you would qualify for one of these programs based on health conditions or income, by all means reach out and let us help you evaluate your individual plan options and situation.

If you have any additional questions, contact our team today!