I heard there are Medicare plans that specialize in diabetes. How do they work?

A Special Needs Plan (SNP) is a type of Medicare Advantage plan available to three categories of beneficiaries: those with chronic conditions, those also enrolled in Medicaid, and those who live in a nursing home or other long-term care situation. In that first category, SNPs cover conditions such as diabetes, end-stage renal disease and heart disease. These plans provide prescription drug coverage, often at a lower cost, and may have lower copays for specialists. An SNP also may cover a longer hospital stay if needed. As of June, enrollment in these plans exceeded 6 million Medicare beneficiaries. To find one, go to medicare.gov and click on Find Plans Now, or call 800-633-4227.

Medicare won’t pay for a piece of medical equipment that my doctor says I need. Is there anything I can do?
Yes. You can appeal the decision. If you have original Medicare, look at your quarterly Medicare Summary Notice (or check your claims by logging in to your account on medicare.gov). Find the item that was denied and send your appeal to the Medicare contractor at the address listed on the MSN. Ask your health care provider for any information that may help your case. If you have an Advantage plan, you’ll file your appeal with that plan; the process varies depending on the insurer. Want help? Contact the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) in your state. Their counselors can help you file an appeal. Go to shiphelp.org or call 877-839-2675 toll-free to find your state’s program.