(File Photo)

(Reported by Danielle Smith of Keystone News Service)

(Pennsylvania) Many Pennsylvania residents could benefit from health coverage known as a Dual Special Needs Plan, but may be unaware of this option. According to KFF, nearly thirty-eight percent of eligible Pennsylvania seniors participate in the plans called “DSNPs.” They are for people who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Marian Cabanillas with UnitedHealthcare says besides preventive care, DSNPs offer other health benefits, including a monthly amount to help pay for utility bills, groceries or other needs. Her company puts the benefits on its “UnitedHealthcare U-Card.” In 2023, more than five-million dual-eligible individuals were enrolled in D-SNPs. The time to sign up for coverage for next year is now, before the Medicare open enrollment deadline of December 7th.