Having health insurance coverage will provide peace of mind you can maintain your physical and mental well-being, get treatment when needed, and avoid astronomical medical costs. From EPOs to PPOs, there are numerous plans to choose from. To determine which is best for you, below is a quick exploration of a few popular options. 

3 Common Types of Health Insurance

1. Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO)

With an EPO plan, health insurance is covered as long as you seek medical treatment from a hospital, doctor, or specialist that is part of your insurance provider’s network. You’d have to pay out of pocket for services from health care professionals outside of the network.

The exception to the rule is when you need emergency services. Depending on the insurer, the EPO plan might require you to choose a primary care doctor for preventative treatment. However, you do not need a primary care physician to provide a referral to see a specialist.  

2. Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)

Due to the set copay costs and low premium and deductible rates, an HMO plan is one of the less costly insurance options. To be eligible, you might need to live or work in the area where coverage is provided. Similar to an EPO, medical services must be from providers within the network. Unlike an EPO, you must get referrals to specialists from the primary care physician you choose when you enroll in the HMO. 

3. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

With a PPO plan, you have the option of using medical care providers both in and out of the network. However, copay costs for appointments are lower when the doctor is within the network. You can go to a specialist outside of the network without a referral from a primary care physician, but you’ll just have to pay a steeper copay.

To speak with knowledgeable health insurance agents about which plan is best, reach out to Kelley Agency in Lorain, OH. Since 1960, the insurance agency has been helping business owners in Lorain County and the greater Cleveland area obtain comprehensive health coverage for their employees. To reach Dan Kelley and his team, call (440) 282-8898.