Dual-eligible beneficiaries may enroll in which plans or programs?

• A. They receive only Medicare benefits.
• B. They receive only Medicaid benefits without Medicare.
• C. Dual-eligible beneficiaries may enroll in DSNPs (Dual SNPs) or receive waivers and additional state assistance.
• D. They cannot enroll in DSNPs.

Answer: (C)

Dual-eligible beneficiaries are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, so their coverage options include plans that coordinate these benefits. DSNPs, or Dual-eligible SNPs, are Medicare Advantage plans specifically designed for people who have both programs, providing integrated Medicare and Medicaid coverage and care coordination. In addition, many states offer waivers and other state-assisted programs to help with long-term services, home- and community-based supports, and related needs. This combination—enrolling in a DSNP and accessing waivers or state aid—best reflects the real options for dual-eligibles, making this choice the correct one.

The other statements miss important facts: dual-eligibles do not receive only Medicare benefits, nor only Medicaid benefits without Medicare, and they can indeed enroll in DSNPs.