I have read some HMO vs. PPO comparisons. Can you tell me their advantages and disadvantages? I’m planning on getting a health insurance plan and I really don’t mind paying a high monthly premium as long as I get the best coverage.

You may actually benefit from reading through and understanding HMO vs. PPO comparisons that are usually available online. In general, both health insurance organizations offer good insurance benefits but at a price. For example, the cost of HMO insurance plans is relatively cheaper compared with that of PPO insurance plans that have higher deductibles. Co-payments for PPO are not usually fixed for some health and medical care services. Most HMOs on the other hand, have pre-set, lower cost co-payments. These co-payments may not be fixed, but they usually cover most of the health care services offered in the plan. For some insurance carriers that offer fixed co-payments, doctors’ visits and prescriptions drugs are usually covered.

The use of health care providers and services are also some of the things to consider when you choose HMO vs. PPO. With HMO, you will be limited to use only in-network providers while PPO plans have more flexibility. HMOs require you to consult a primary care physician first within the network before you can see a specialist. PPO plans allow you to see out-of-network doctors and even specialists without any referrals but you might have to pay higher co-payments and even out-of-network deductibles.

Another thing that you need to check in deciding on HMO vs. PPO is if you have a family physician that you trust. PPO plans give you the freedom to stay with your doctor if he or she is not within the network. However, if you decide on HMO plans, you can invite him or her to become a member of the health insurance organization so you can maximize the benefits of your plan. Since cost is not a problem with you, you will just have to focus on choosing the coverage that you need.

Answer by general public - June 26, 2009 @ 12:47 pm

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