Do DSNP Plans Include Perks Like Dental, Vision, and Grocery Cards?
Published on July 15, 2025
When managing your health on both Medicare and Medicaid, every added benefit makes a major difference. That’s where DSNPs or Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans come in as game changers. These plans are crafted for individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, offering a unique level of support customized to your requirements.
But beyond integrating the two programs, the Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans often bring a treasure chest of added benefits – from comprehensive dental care and vision benefits to grocery cards that help stretch your food budget. And in today’s world, where everyday essentials are equally essential to your health as medications, these perks matter more than ever.
So, do all DSNPs actually include these benefits? And how do you find a plan that best suits your lifestyle? Let’s break it down.
What Is a DSNP Plan and Who Qualifies?
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan, popularly referred to as DSNP, is a type of Medicare Advantage plan crafted specifically for individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. The plan serves as a link between the two programs, offering you additional benefits, assistance, and improved care coordination. A DSNP is best suited for those with ongoing health requirements who are living on a low income.
To stand out as an eligible candidate for a DSNP plan, you must:
- Be enrolled in Parts A and B of Medicare
- Qualify for Medicaid in your state
- Live in a service area where DSNP is provided
There are various levels of Medicaid assistance; some cover more than others, while even limited Medicaid eligibility can open the door to a DSNP. And the best part? Once you get enrolled, you acquire access to coordinated care, added benefits, and often $0 premiums.
Get more than just coverage with Liberty Medicare Advantage DSNPs!
Why DSNP Plans Go Beyond Basic Medicare and Medicaid Coverage?
We all know how Original Medicare has its own limitations. While it covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and some preventive services, it usually doesn’t cover dental, vision, hearing, or long–term care. Medicaid does help fill in some of the gaps, but its coverage depends extensively on the area you live in, and it often lacks consistency.
That’s where DSNP plans enter the scenario as a game-changer. These Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers, due to which they get funding from both Medicare and Medicaid. This allows them to provide coordinated care and added benefits that are not usually available through either of the programs alone.
The outcome? More complete care, less surprises, and real-world benefits that improve your overall quality of life.
What Extra Benefits Can DSNP Plans Offer?
Now here’s where things get exciting. The DSNPs include a wide range of value-added services that can make a big difference to your daily routine. Let’s take a closer look at the extra benefits offered by the DSNP plan:
Dental Coverage
Many DSNPs offer comprehensive dental benefits that include:
- Two annual cleanings and exams
- Fillings, root canals, and extractions
- Dentures and crowns
- Orthodontics (in some cases)
Vision Benefits
- Yearly eye exams
- Allowances for glasses or contact lenses
- A yearly allowance of upto $300 for frames or lenses
Hearing Benefits
The hearing benefits included in DSNPs include:
- $0 coinsurance for annual hearing exams and diagnostics
- A hearing aid allowance of $2500 every two years, combined for both ears
- Follow-up visits and adjustments
Remember, hearing loss must not isolate you, and that’s why DSNP plans prioritize hearing wellness to help you stay connected.
Grocery Cards and Over the Counter (OTC) Allowances
This is one of the most unique perks of modern DSNPs, wherein the members get a monthly grocery card or healthy food benefit that can be used at participating stores. The grocery card allowances can be used for fresh produce, dairy, grains, pantry staples, and sometimes even utility bill support. Further, the OTC allowances are provided for medical supplies such as pain relievers, vitamins, first-aid supplies, and more without any prescriptions.
Transportation Assistance
Missed appointments may derail your health goals. Hence, the $0 transportation assistance of DSNPs allows 20 one-way trips for approved health-related locations not to exceed 25 miles per trip.
Enjoy dental, vision & grocery perks with Liberty Medicare Advantage’s DSNP Plans!
How to Find a DSNP Plan That Includes the Perks You Want?
Not all DSNPs are similar to each other. The benefits may vary depending on the insurance provider, your location, and the level of Medicaid assistance you get. Here’s how you can find the right DSNP plan that best suits your interests:
- List Your Priorities: Are you looking for dental, vision, hearing, or grocery benefits? Knowing what matters most to you will ease your search.
- Review Each Plan’s Benefits: Check out the specific allowances provided for different benefits such as grocery cards, dental work, and OTC allowances.
- Check the Provider Network: Ensure that your doctors, specialists, dentists, and preferred hospitals are in-network of the plan you choose.
- Use a Licensed Agent or Advisor: Navigating through Medicare and Medicaid plans can be overwhelming. Therefore, if you schedule a free consultation with a licensed advisor, you may get the best help to find the DSNP plan that suits your unique needs.
- Watch for Enrollment Periods: DSNPs have special enrollment periods all throughout the year, depending on your Medicaid status. Hence, you will not have to wait for any specific enrollment window to make amendments to your plan.
Conclusion
As we come to the end of this informative blog, it is quite clear that DSNPs are more than just a safety net – they’re a lifeline for dual-eligible individuals seeking better care, greater independence, and practical day-to-day assistance. From free dental services and hearing aids to monthly grocery and OTC allowances, these plans are crafted to improve both your health and lifestyle.
Now, if you’re wondering where to begin, then Liberty Medicare Advantage emerges as the most popular preferred choice of individuals for its robust DSNP plans. The plans offered by Liberty Medicare Advantage are renowned for offering comprehensive benefits, outstanding customer care, and a commitment to your well-being.
Ready to choose a DSNP plan that actually aligns with your unique health requirements? Let Liberty Medicare Advantage help you get there today!
Liberty Medicare Advantage - where better benefits begin.
FAQs
No, DSNP benefits vary by insurance provider, state, and your Medicaid level. While many plans include dental, vision, and grocery perks, the coverage limits, service availability, and eligible items may differ.
Most DSNP grocery cards are restricted to a network of participating retailers. These cards are typically meant for approved healthy food items and cannot be used at restaurants or general merchandise stores.
Yes, DSNPs offer enhanced mental health coverage, including inpatient and outpatient therapy, care coordination, and access to behavioral health specialists.
Dual-eligible individuals often qualify for Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs), allowing them to switch DSNPs once per quarter for the first three quarters of the year. This flexibility helps you move to a plan with better perks if your needs or preferences change.
Your continued eligibility for a DSNP depends on your Medicaid status. If your Medicaid benefits change or end, your plan may shift you to a standard Medicare Advantage plan, or you may need to choose new coverage.
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