What is the difference between a POS, PPO and HMO?
The Point of Service (POS) plan combines the coordinated care and low out of pocket expenses of an HMO with the flexibility to receive benefits in or out of network. The plan also provides prescription drug coverage. When you enroll in a POS plan, you and any covered dependents must choose a primary care physician (PCP,) from the plan’s network of doctors, to coordinate all your in-network care and provide you with specialist referrals. However, you always have two options when you need care. A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) also has in and out-of-network benefits, however, you do not need a referral to see a network specialist. The PPO plan also provides prescription drug coverage, and you and any covered dependents must choose a PCP. Because the PCP is not required to approve specialist visits, there are slightly higher out of pocket expenses in a PPO plan. Like the POS, with the PPO, you always have two options when you need care. A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plan
