Navigating healthcare coverage as you get older can feel overwhelming, especially if you qualify for more than one program. If you live in South Florida and wonder whether you can have both Medicare and Medicaid at the same time, the short answer is yes!
For seniors and individuals with disabilities in Broward County who qualify for both, a specialized type of Medicare Advantage plan called a Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) can bridge the gap and provide massive financial and medical benefits.
Here is what you need to know about D-SNPs and how they work right here in Broward County.
What is a Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)?
Navigating healthcare coverage as you get older can feel overwhelming, especially if you qualify for more than one program. If you live in South Florida and wonder whether you can have both Medicare and Medicaid at the same time, the short answer is yes!
For seniors and individuals with disabilities in Broward County who qualify for both, a specialized type of Medicare Advantage plan called a Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) can bridge the gap and provide massive financial and medical benefits.
Here is what you need to know about D-SNPs and how they work right here in Broward County.
What is a Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP)?
A D-SNP is a specific category of Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan designed exclusively for people who are “dual-eligible”—meaning they qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (known in Florida as Medipass or Statewide Medicaid Managed Care).
Instead of managing separate plans and dealing with confusing out-of-pocket costs between state and federal programs, a D-SNP combines your hospital, medical, and prescription drug coverage into one comprehensive, coordinated plan.
Who is Eligible in Broward County?
Be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
Be enrolled in Florida Medicaid (the level of Medicaid assistance—such as Full Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program like QMB or SLMB—will determine your specific plan tier).
- Live within the plan’s service area (Broward County).
- Be enrolled in Florida Medicaid (the level of Medicaid assistance—such as Full Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program like QMB or SLMB—will determine your specific plan tier).
- Live within the plan’s service area (Broward County).
Key Benefits of D-SNPs for South Florida Residents
Enrolling in a D-SNP often unlocks benefits that go far beyond standard Original Medicare, helping you save significantly on monthly expenses:
- $0 Monthly Plan Premiums: Many D-SNPs have a $0 premium for individuals who qualify for full financial assistance.
- Lower Prescription Costs: Prescription drug (Part D) copays are heavily reduced or completely eliminated.
- Extra Over-the-Counter (OTC) Allowances: Plans often include a monthly credit to spend on everyday health items like vitamins, pain relievers, and first-aid supplies.
- Dental, Vision, and Hearing Benefits: Comprehensive coverage for cleanings, dentures, eye exams, glasses, and hearing aids that Original Medicare doesn’t fully cover.
- Transportation Assistance: Free or discounted rides to and from doctor appointments, pharmacies, and medical facilities across Broward County.
When Can You Enroll?
Unlike standard Medicare plans that require you to wait for the Annual Election Period (AEP) in the fall, dual-eligible individuals generally have a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This means you can typically enroll in or switch your D-SNP once per calendar quarter throughout the year.
Get Local Help from an Independent Broward County Agent
Navigating income tiers, Medicaid levels, and plan networks can be tricky. Working with a local, independent insurance professional ensures you find a plan that covers your specific doctors (such as your preferred specialists and hospital networks in Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, or Oakland Park) and maximizes your benefits.
Have questions about your dual-eligibility or want to review your options for 2027?
Contact our local team today or schedule a one-on-one consultation to make sure you are getting every benefit you deserve!