What are Special Needs Plans (SNPs) in Medicare Advantage?

Special Needs Plans (SNPs) in Medicare Advantage are specifically designed to cater to individuals who have particular health care needs or chronic conditions. These plans are tailored to provide specialized services and support that address the unique requirements of enrollees, such as those with certain chronic illnesses, disabilities, or individuals living in institutions like nursing homes.

By focusing on these specific populations, SNPs can offer benefits and services that are more closely aligned with the members' health care needs. This can include coordinated care from providers who understand the complexities related to the specific conditions or circumstances faced by the enrollees.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of SNPs. For instance, SNPs are not universally available to all beneficiaries without regard for health conditions, nor are they limited to preventive care only or restricted to covering only dental and vision services. Understanding these nuances helps clarify the unique role that SNPs play in the Medicare Advantage landscape.