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At Least 11 Dead After Severe Flooding Sweeps The South; Hundreds Of Thousands Without Power; Abandoned Mine Land program frozen as Appalachia faces severe flooding; Solar power gives MN resort new blood, new life.

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Top Trump officials set to meet with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia over the Ukraine war. The GOP budget resolution is at risk as moderates weigh out consequences. New York City Mayor Eric Adams says he's "going nowhere."

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Dual Special Needs Plans can help Arizonans combat rising costs

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Thursday, November 14, 2024   

Arizona already has one of the highest percentage of eligible seniors enrolled in dual special-needs plans, sitting at nearly 50% of eligible Arizonans. But experts want to drive that number up. Those who are dually eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid could qualify for a dual special-need plan, known as "D-SNP".

Tiffany Huyenh-Cho, California director of Medicare & Medicaid Advocacy with Justice in Aging, said the additional coverage option is for folks who may need more help because of disabilities, age or health conditions. Arizonans can learn more about "D-SNPs" through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, known as "SHIP."

"They're independent, they're neutral, but they are really meant to help Medicare individuals navigate the different options that are out there, including D-SNP. So they are a really good resource," she said.

D-SNPs typically provide certain benefits not otherwise available in standard health coverage and generally don't charge a premium. Last year, there were more than 5 million individuals who were enrolled in dual plans. The deadline to enroll this year is December 7th.

Marian Cabanillas, with UnitedHealthcare Community and State, said D-SNPs not only help individuals with their basic health coverage, but also include unique perks such as helping folks access healthy foods, like fruits, vegetables and meat. It can also include over-the-counter products like toothpaste and even helping pay for utility bills.

"So like your internet service or your electricity or gas in your home. The great thing about these programs is that it doesn't just cover all of the basics, right? But on top of that, these really important extra benefits," she said.

Cabanillas added that millions of people who are eligible for the plans aren't enrolled, perhaps because they do not know it is an option. She contends that folks tend to put off their health care when they're unsure if they can afford it, and a dual plan can help alleviate the fear.


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