What must be included in provider networks for enrollees of a Chronic Special Needs Plan (C-SNP)?

The necessity for access to a sufficient number of doctors, specialists, and hospitals is fundamental in provider networks for enrollees of a Chronic Special Needs Plan (C-SNP). This requirement ensures that individuals with chronic conditions receive comprehensive and timely care. A robust network allows patients to have choices in their healthcare providers and facilitates necessary referrals and specialized care, which are often crucial for managing chronic health issues.

Having enough providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, is essential to properly address the diverse medical needs of patients with chronic illnesses. This access directly impacts patient outcomes, as it enables individuals to receive regular check-ups, ongoing management of their conditions, and immediate care when necessary.

The other choices do not meet the requirements for effective chronic disease management: relying on a single provider could severely limit care options, restricting providers to the same county would impede access to specialists and facilities that might not be available locally, and only including providers from the Medicare Advantage program could restrict choices and accessibility, reducing the overall quality of care for enrollees.