What is the difference between a HMO and PPO?

3 Comments

1. Dr. Albert, DDS (UNITED STATES) says:

   August 2, 2009 at 3:27 pm

   FYI,
   dentists hate dealing w/HMOs.
   why?
   these force them to accept lousy, poor paying patients and there is no incentive to do a good job.
   However,
   dentists like PPOs because they reimburse them much better and there is not a quota to see patients. The benefits are much better.
   So which should you choose?
   DEFINITELY PPO if possible.
   why?
   BETTER DENTISTS = BETTER RESULTS
2. Eliana V says:

   August 2, 2009 at 3:27 pm

   HMO you go to the doctors that the company has approved. It’s like the base of insurance. PPO let’s you choose doctors from a list.
3. TweetyBird says:

   August 2, 2009 at 3:27 pm

   Essentially the differences are cost and autonomy.

   With an HMO, the premiums are lower making it less expensive but you must see health care providers within the network and you must get prior authorization for referrals to specialists. The office visits co-pays are reasonable.

   A PPO has a deductible that must be met each year before insurance covers you and has a much higher office visit co-pay. However, it’s primary advantage is that you don’t need specialist referrals and can see out-of-network providers.

   There may also be differences in covered benefits and your co-pay for these benefits. No one else can decide which is better for you. Only you can make that determination. I suggest you go online and compare policies.

   http://www.ehealthinsurance.com