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April 15, 2024 |  By: Farah Siddiqi - Public News Service

Missourians unaware of dual eligible special needs plans for healthcare savings

healthcare

By Farah Siddiqi - Public News Service

Dual Special Needs Plans such as Medicare Advantage in Missouri offer low costs with minimal co-pays and deductibles. In Missouri and across the country, dual-eligible people represent a diverse group.

Nearly half are people of color and almost 40% are younger than age 65. However, they all have limited financial means and complex health-care needs.

Dr. Gina Williams, UnitedHealthcare's medical director, said only about three in 10 Missourians who are eligible for a D-SNP are enrolled. She says these plans take a dynamic approach in serving this eligible population.

"Everything from managing your wellness to managing your behavioral health needs and then everyday needs," she said. "So, it's kind of a more comprehensive package for people who need a little bit more support."

Those everyday needs she mentioned include meal benefits and bathroom safety devices.

According to an independent health report by KFF, DeKalb, Lawrence and Dallas counties had the highest shares of dual-eligible individuals enrolled in D-SNPs - all above 40%. The rest of the state varied in 2021.

While these plans can be comprehensive, Williams said, one feature stands out.

"In general, one of the great benefits about these D-SNP plans is that [they] offer zero-dollar co-pays on covered prescriptions."

She added that Missourians have plenty of options for saving on their health care. Outside of the D-SNP, dual-eligible people receive pharmacy benefits through their Medicare Part D plan and MORx.