If you are confused or debating about what type of health insurance you should have read our essential guide on PPO health insurance. It may be the best choice.
The number of Americans without health insurance is on the rise. If you were laid off or furloughed, then you may have lost your employer-sponsored benefits.
As a result, you might be thinking about taking out your own health insurance plan. If you started a new job, you might also be looking at new options.
If that sounds like you, you might be wondering about PPO health insurance. What is it, and why do some people consider it the best option out there? These three reasons will shed light on the subject.
1. PPO Health Insurance Lets You Pick Your Provider
What does PPO mean in health insurance? It stands for “preferred provider organization.” This is a network of care providers that your insurance provider grants you access to.
This means you can go to any of the providers in the network of care. PPOs usually have extensive networks, which means you have access to more provider options.
2. You Don’t Need to See a Primary Care Physician First
If you’re looking at HMO vs PPO health insurance, this is an important distinction to make. HMOs and PPOs give you access to a network of providers.
HMOs will ask you to see a primary care physician first. If you want to see another provider, your primary care physician has to refer you to them.
PPOs don’t restrict you this way. Instead, you can simply pick the provider you need to see and make an appointment directly. This gives you access to the care you need.
You will pay a little bit more with PPO health insurance plans. HMOs typically cost less, but they offer much less freedom.
3. You May Need Out-of-Network Care Covered
A PPO offers you access to a network of providers, but you don’t have to stay in-network. The best PPO health insurance usually covers at least a part of out-of-network costs. In-network care is usually more affordable for this reason.
If you suspect you’ll need to go out of network for any reason, though, a PPO gives you the flexibility to do so. This is a great option for people who live in rural areas. You may have limited options for accessing providers who are in-network in your area.
The PPO allows you to select providers who are in your area but not in your care network.
This is also a good choice if you have a rare condition or preferred specialists. The care providers you need or want to work with may not be in your network. The PPO plan allows you to work with them anyway.
Discover a Health Plan Designed for You
There are plenty of different health insurance plan structures out there. By understanding the differences between them, you can make the right choice for your needs.
A PPO health insurance plan could be right for you if you don’t want to make referrals, you may need access to out-of-network care, or you just want to be able to choose from in-network providers.
Are you looking for a better health insurance plan? Then get in touch with the experts and discover health insurance that’s suited to your needs.