2026 SNP (C-SNP and D-SNP) Acquisition Study

Overview

The lines between C-SNP and D-SNP have blurred as most Dual Eligibles have a qualifying condition for C-SNP. With D-SNP at nearly 6 million and growing, as well as the sunsetting of MMP and C-SNP doubling year over year, the need to understand what qualifying consumers must have in a SNP product — and what they must feel in a SNP service — is paramount for carriers.

Our 2026 study features sections on the product nuances that Duals find most important in the post-VBID era, how the potential reintroduction of drug copays has changed what matters in design, how nontraditional marketing channels may connect better with Duals, and what sales-minded professionals must focus on to align their approach with the needs of these unique beneficiaries.

What's Inside the Study

Attracting Seniors to SNP

Understand which benefits and communication channels are best positioned to guide seniors towards D-SNP and C-SNP coverage.

Understanding the Impact of the VBID Sunset

With the end of VBID, a powerful benefit design tool is no longer available to plan managers. Who has been impacted, and how have plan designs changed? How successful have SSBCI benefits been in the role that VBID played in plan designs? What are the most successful plans doing?

Exploring Standard MA Plan Enrollment for D-SNP and C-SNP Eligible Consumers

For consumers who are not currently in a D-SNP or C-SNP but are eligible for one, what has kept them in their current coverage? How can these consumers be encouraged to join D-SNP or C-SNP plans?

Insights From the 2025 Report

Dual Shopper Awareness of Benefit Changes

Roughly half of Dual shoppers paid attention to insurer mail during the last AEP. With allowances expected to be used up more quickly in 2026, carriers will need to consider benefit reductions. However, Duals are highly aware of changes: they respond to notices about unused allowances and closely watch for cuts to OTC benefits. Design teams must carefully decide which benefits to trim, as reductions in essential allowances will be noticed, especially with fewer SEP switching opportunities. In short, Duals will notice if their allowances are reduced.