If The Care Is Quality, Does It Matter Who The Provider Is?

Does anyone still remember when HMO and PPO plans were treated like the plague? It seemed on one wanted this type of policy. These plans were notorious for limiting the physician choices individuals could choose from. Indemnity plans were the undisputed kings of the day. Having coverage meant that a percentage of your health care was covered and the difference was made up your the deductible, however you still had the freedom of choice concerning physicians.

Indemnity plans have almost priced themselves out of the market. Much different than 20 years ago. Long time users of indemnity plans are making the switch to HMO and PPO's. The current economy has changed and has in turn forced policy change to co-exist with less money to make a budget work effectively. Most everything, everywhere has had to make adaptable changes to survive.

Can anyone really justify the higher prices. It appears that private practice doctors, not associated with this kind of plans say yes as well as some people who are really content with these physicians. Overall though, the cost is actually inflated in addition to the group insurance policies allowing policy holders to see what ever doctor they decide at an elevated rate above the network providers.

Essentially indemnity plans are gradually becoming a thing of the past and over time they are gradually disappearing from the scene. Most people are happy with the fact that their plan has good doctors and good medical facilities that they can go to for a much lower out of pocket expense and when they can save this much seeing a designated provider they realize that the benefits of these types of plans well exceed the limitations of not being able to make the ultimate decision on which provider will be providing their care.

The network of benefits that these plans offer, will still allow you to choose who you can see for services. However, the higher fees and cost will have to be payed from your own pocket and not the insurance company. You can exercise the right to do that, but it will cost you. If the insurance company's list of providers are professionals, does it really matter that they treat you, most people just want good quality health care, regardless of who is doing the choosing. If you decide to make those choices your self you will still be insured, but it will cost way more than if they choose the provider for you. So why not just save your money?