Question

What types of healthcare insurance plans, sources for getting coverage, and costs of health care and insurance.

Answer 1

Each insurance brand may offer these four common types of plans:

• Health maintenance organizations (HMOs)
• Preferred provider organizations (PPOs)
• Exclusive provider organizations (EPOs)
• Point-of-service (POS) plans
• High-deductible health plans (HDHPs)

An HMO delivers all health care services through a network of providers and facilities. With an HMO, you may have: the least freedom to choose the health care provider The least amount of paperwork compared to other options A primary care doctor may administer your treatment and refer you to specialists when you need one so that the health plan covers the care; most HMOs may allow referral before you can see a specialist.

PPO has a fair amount of freedom to choose your health care provider— more than an HMO; you don't need to see a specialist with a recommendation from a primary care doctor.
Higher out - of-pocket expenses if you see doctors outside the network vs. providers in the network More paperwork than with other plans if you see providers outside the network

EPO A modest amount of flexibility to choose your health care provider— more than an HMO; to see a specialist, you don't need to get a referral from a primary care doctor.
No coverage for out - of-network providers; if you see a provider that's not in the network of your plan –other than in an emergency–you'll have to pay yourself the full cost.