So you're looking for a new health insurance plan. You've done your research and you think you might want a PPO or an HMO. But what's the difference between the two? And which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out.

Both are types of managed care plans, but they work in very different ways.

PPO
PPO plans, or Preferred Provider Organization plans, are health insurance plans that allow you to see any doctor or specialist that you want, without needing a referral from a primary care physician. PPO plans also give you the freedom to go out-of-network for care, although you'll usually pay more for doing so. One downside of PPO plans is that they often have higher premiums than HMO plans.

HMO
HMO plans, or Health Maintenance Organization plans, are health insurance plans that require you to see doctors and specialists within a specific network. You'll need to get a referral from your primary care physician in order to see a specialist. One upside of HMO plans is that they often have lower premiums than PPO plans. The downside is that you'll have less flexibility in terms of which doctors you can see.

Choosing the Right Plan for You
Now that you know the basics of how PPOs and HMOs work, you can start to think about which type of plan is right for you. If you want more freedom to see any doctor or specialist without getting referrals, a PPO plan may be the way to go. However, if you're looking for lower monthly premiums, an HMO plan may be a better option.

You may also want to consider whether you're likely to need out-of-network care. If you are, make sure to choose a plan with out-of-network benefits so you're not stuck with unexpected medical bills.

Conclusion:

So which plan is right for you? That depends on your needs and preferences. If you want the freedom to see any doctor without needing a referral, then a PPO plan is probably right for you. But if you're looking for an affordable option with lower premiums, then an HMO plan might be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.

If you are considering getting a HMO plan, a good place to start your search is on the rohealth platform.