What You Need to Know About HMO and PPO

Many people frown upon these types of policies; however there are many good reasons to choose an HMO or PPO for your health insurance needs. The number one reason is the price as these policies tend to be much less expensive when compared to other health insurance policies.

An HMO or Health Maintenance Organization is a group that includes its own physicians. They don't limit the number of visits or the amount of coverage you have. You can go to the doctor any time you need to for any reason. You choose a primary health care provider. This is your choice; however there are only a limited number of providers in your area to choose from. Your primary care physician will see you for everything and when necessary they will make a decision to refer you out to a specialist. Some people feel that this is controlling however the coverage takes care of everything you need as long as you are referred by your primary doctor.

A PPO is a Preferred Provider Organization and they offer very similar benefits to an HMO with one big exception. Although you choose a primary care physician you can at any time go to see the doctor of your choice however the insurance will only pay these medical expenses at a reduced rate. In essence they reward you for seeing their doctors and penalize you for using the doctor of your choice, however many people like the fact that they can still see a doctor of their choosing at any time. PPO plans tend to be a little more expensive then HMO's because of this choice option.

Over the years many people have received very good quality care from both HMO and PPO plans. They are an effective way to keep your family insured through leaner times and still allow you to get the medical assistance you need anytime you need it.

Living without insurance can be very costly and therefore if you find that you are running out of options for health insurance you may just want to consider plans like those listed above. They can offer you the routine medical care you need without paying a lot of money out of your pocket for doctors visits.