PPO vs. POS Health Insurance

POS Insurance

• Point of Service insurance is considered a blend of both Preferred Provider Organization and Health Maintenance Organization plans. A member can stay in or go out of network for care and still receive coverage from the insurer.
  
  

PPO Insurance

• PPO insurance is a plan that provides the most flexibility for its members, as there are generally no restrictions for receiving health care from any doctor. However, the out-of-pocket expenses for members of this plan are higher than POS.
  
  

Considerations

• Members of managed health care plans, including PPO and POS, are provided with a network of contracted doctors that will give quality care at discounted rates. POS members may be required to pick a Primary Care Physician to handle their health care decisions. PPO members are not.
  
  

Benefits

• Members of both plans receive higher coverage amounts when they stay in network for care. POS members can pay lower out-of-pocket expenses by getting a referral from their PCP to see other doctors or specialists.
  
  

Differences

• While HMO and POS plans are considered prepaid insurance; PPO plans reimburse their members for services rendered.