The DIfference Between HMO and POS Medical Plans

What Are HMO and POS Medical Plans? 

If you need "Under-Age" (Under 65) or Medicare health insurance, you probably want to be familiar with different health plan types. Understanding these plan types can help you make a good selection when you need to join a plan, and it can keep you happier with the plan you already have.

Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) plans have been around for a few decades. A lot of people are already familiar with the pros and cons of HMOs. These plans all have an organization (network) of health service providers. In order get your insurer to cover your services, you usually have to use an in-network provider. If you don't, you risk not getting your health needs covered!

Here's the problem. Either by mistake, or sometimes on purpose, some people have gotten health services outside the organization, and they found their insurer would not cover this at all! Point of Sale (POS) plans were introduced in order to provide more choices and flexibility, while still providing members with a way to keep out of pocket costs as low as possible.

Compare POS vs. HMO Health Insurance

A POS works just like an HMO if you get your medical services inside the network! If you choose to get medical services outside of the network, it automatically starts working like an indemnity medical insurance plan. This gives plan members some more freedom of choice. Of course, you should be aware that your costs are likely to be much lower if you seek in-organization services! But you still can choose to find a qualified medical professional, who accepts your plan, and be covered.

How Can You Find Medical Plans? 

If you would like to consider some different options, you may choose to get insurance quotes at a website that allows you to compare multiple companies. You may also speak with one, or more, local agents. Either tactic should help you find the best insurance rates and plans in your area.