A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) is a type of health insurance plan that provides coverage for medical services through a network of preferred healthcare providers. PPOs typically have a network of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers that have agreed to provide services to PPO policyholders at a discounted rate.
PPO policyholders have the option to receive care from providers outside of the PPO network, but they may have to pay a higher out-of-pocket cost for these services. PPOs generally offer more flexibility and choice than other types of health insurance plans, such as HMOs (Health Maintenance Organizations), which require policyholders to choose a primary care physician and obtain referrals to see specialists.
PPO policyholders typically pay a monthly premium to maintain their coverage and may also be responsible for paying deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance for medical services. It is important to carefully review the terms of a PPO plan to understand the costs and benefits of the coverage.