The Untapped Opportunity: Why Agents Should Be Talking About C-SNPs This AEP

The Untapped Opportunity: Why Agents Should Be Talking About C-SNPs This AEP

As we head into one of the most disruptive AEP seasons in recent memory, insurance agents need to be more strategic than ever about how they serve Medicare beneficiaries—and how they grow their book of business. One of the biggest opportunities hiding in plain sight? Chronic Special Needs Plans (C-SNPs).

‍

What Are C-SNPs?

C-SNPs are a type of Medicare Advantage plan designed specifically for beneficiaries with certain chronic health conditions. These plans offer tailored benefits and focused care coordination that can be a game-changer for the right clients. Some of the chronic health coinditions that may lead someone to qualigfy include:

• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Chronic heart failure
• COPD
• ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease)
• And others, depending on the plan and carrier

‍

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Millions Qualify and Don’t Know It

Here’s the kicker: Over 60% of Medicare beneficiaries have at least one chronic condition, according to CMS data. That means millions of your prospects and clients may already qualify for a C-SNP plan—but have no idea it exists or what it offers.

This is especially important as:

• Medicare Advantage benefits face cutbacks in 2025 and 2026
• MOOPs continue to climb
• Networks shrink or shift
• Beneficiaries with chronic conditions feel increasingly underserved
• Agents who understand C-SNPs can step in with real solutions.

‍

Why Agents Should Focus on C-SNPs This Year

With the looming AEP market shake-up, C-SNPs offer timely, tangible value for both agents and clients:

• Year-Round Enrollment: C-SNP-eligible clients qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) and can enroll outside of AEP. That means you can help them anytime—not just during the rush.
• High Retention & Loyalty: Because these plans address ongoing health needs in a very personal way, members are more likely to stay enrolled and more likely to stay loyal to the agent who helped them find the right fit.
• Built-in Differentiation: Offering C-SNPs sets you apart. Instead of just quoting plan premiums and ancillary benefits, you’re having real conversations about health outcomes and specialized care.
• Improved Health Outcomes: C-SNPs include things like disease-specific care teams, focused drug formularies, and targeted wellness benefits—all aimed at improving quality of life for clients who need it most.

‍

How to Find Eligible Clients

It’s easier than you think. Start by looking through your existing book for clients who:

• Take insulin or multiple medications for diabetes
• Use inhalers or nebulizers regularly
• Have a history of heart conditions or stents
• Use oxygen or CPAP devices
• Have been hospitalized for chronic issues

Then, ask one simple question: "Has anyone ever talked to you about Medicare plans built specifically for your condition?"

If not—you’ve just opened the door to a meaningful and potentially life-changing conversation.

‍

Don’t Miss the Moment

C-SNPs aren’t new, but they’re more important now than ever. With all the disruption to Medicare Advantage plans on the horizon, beneficiaries with chronic conditions are most at risk of losing the coverage they rely on. This is your chance to offer guidance, protection, and peace of mind—while growing your book with high-value, loyal clients.

‍

Ready to Add C-SNPs to Your Portfolio?

We’re here to help. From C-SNP training and certifications to carrier insights and marketing materials, our team can support you every step of the way.

Let’s work together to make this your most impactful AEP yet.

‍