Count On Extra Benefits With A Dual Special Needs Plan
Are you eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid? If so, you might qualify for a Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan (D-SNP). These plans offer extra coverage you won’t receive with Original Medicare, like dental, vision, prescription drug benefits, and coverage for over-the-counter health items. Plus, you can conveniently access those benefits with an Empire Benefits Prepaid Card.
Am I Eligible For A D-SNP?
You’re eligible for a D-SNP if you receive both Medicare and Medicaid benefits. You can learn more about Medicare and Medicaid if you’re not sure which program you qualify for.
If you qualify for both programs and we offer a D-SNP where you live, it could be worth exploring the extra coverage.
Benefits In Dual Eligible Medicare Plans
Our D-SNPs give you dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage. Make sure to check your area for specific coverage, as it can vary from state to state.
Routine physicals and health screenings
Routine teeth cleaning, eye exams and health screenings
Rides to health-related appointments
24-hour health support from a registered nurse
Contact a caregiver or emergency services at the touch of a button
Coverage for OTC health products
Compare SNPs With Other Medicare Advantage Plans in New York
If you’re not eligible for a D-SNP, we offer other types of Medicare Advantage plans in New York which offer similar benefits. You just need to be enrolled in Original Medicare to apply.
How To Enroll In A Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan
If you qualify for Medicaid and are enrolled in Medicare, you may be able to enroll in a Dual Special Needs Plan. You can enroll or switch dual plans once per Special Enrollment Period (SEP) or during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). After you’re enrolled in a dual health plan, you don’t have to renew.
Find the D-SNP plan that is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans
- Medicare provides health coverage to those older than 65 and to some younger individuals with certain disabilities, at any income level
- Medicaid provides health coverage for people with low incomes
Many D-SNPs have a $0 monthly premium, depending on where you live. You still need to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Costs for deductibles, copays, and other cost-sharing for services vary with the plan.
If you have Medicaid coverage that provides Medicare cost-sharing protections, you won’t have to pay Medicare deductibles and copays while seeing doctors in your Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan’s network.
"Dual eligible" means that you are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid coverage. Dual eligible plans provide extra coverage you don’t receive with Original Medicare, like dental, vision, prescription drug benefits, and coverage for over-the-counter health items.

Attend A Free Medicare Event
Sign up for a free Medicare event to learn how Empire Medicare plans help cover costs that Original Medicare doesn’t. You can attend a virtual Medicare webinar. Or, if you prefer, come to a live seminar in your area where a licensed Medicare agent will be present to answer your questions.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is a Medicare Advantage plan with a Medicare contract. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is a D-SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield depends on contract renewal.
Empire BlueCross BlueShield is a Medicare Advantage plan with a Medicare contract. Empire BlueCross BlueShield is a SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the state Medicaid program. Enrollment in Empire BlueCross BlueShield depends on contract renewal.