Institutional Special Needs Plans

We are here to guide you through the complexities of coverage when institutional care is needed.

What is an Institutional Special Needs Plan (I-SNP)?

An Institutional Special Needs Plan (I-SNP) is a Medicare Advantage plan tailored for individuals in nursing homes or long-term care settings, providing coordinated medical care for complex health needs. It specifically serves people who:


  • Live in a nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or other long-term care institution, or
  • Live at home but require the same level of care that someone in a nursing facility would need


These plans are structured to coordinate more intensive medical care and support services for individuals with significant health needs.

A person placing a small black pill into the palm of another person's hand containing several other assorted pills.

Who Qualifies for an I-SNP?

To enroll in an Institutional SNP, a person generally must:


  • Have Medicare Part A and Part B


  • Live in a facility such as:
  • Skilled nursing facility
  • Nursing home
  • Intermediate care facility
  • Long-term care hospital



  • Or require institutional-level care for 90 days or longer


What Makes I-SNPs Different?

Compared to regular Medicare Advantage plans, I-SNPs focus on coordinated care in long-term care settings.


They typically include:


  • Dedicated care teams
  • On-site medical care in facilities
  • Care coordination with nursing staff
  • Medication management
  • Specialized providers experienced in long-term care
  • Often integrated prescription drug coverage (MAPD style)


These plans can help reduce hospitalizations and improve care coordination for people with complex health conditions.

I understand that navigating I-SNP options can be complicated and confusing, and I am here to help. Contact me and we will discuss what is right for your situation.