“Special needs” is a broad term that describes people who face a wide range of challenges. Maybe you have a disability. Or a serious, ongoing medical problem. Having low income could also play a role. This article explains the different types of health plans for people with special needs. If it’s for you, a family member or you’re a caregiver, it’s good to know all your options.

Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are a type of Medicare Advantage Plan. All Medicare Advantage plans must cover the same Medicare services. But some Medicare SNPs are for people with specific diseases or challenges. These plans may tailor benefits, doctors and drug choices to match the needs of the groups they serve.

1. Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) are for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. (These people are also known as “dual-eligible.”)
2. Chronic Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs) are for people with a severe or disabling long-term health problem. Some plans are only for people with a certain condition, like chronic heart failure, diabetes or cardiovascular disorders.
3. Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs) are for people who live in a care facility like a nursing home, or get nursing care at home.
4. Institutional-Equivalent Special Needs Plans (IE-SNPs) are for people who live in an assisted living facility and get the same kind of care as in a skilled nursing facility.

If you have both Medicaid and Medicare, it’s likely that most of your costs will be covered for you. If you don't have Medicaid, your exact costs may depend on the plan you choose. In general, you'll pay the basic costs of having a Medicare Advantage plan.

Visit  uhc.com/medicare to find out more about the C-SNPs, I-SNPs, and IE-SNPs we offer.