What is the difference between HMO and PPO?
I’m nеw tο thіѕ insurance thing аnd I’m аbουt tο gеt dental bυt I need tο know whаt іѕ thе dіffеrеnсе? Whісh one wουld bе best fοr a person thаt doesn’t want tο spend tοο much money out οf pocket. I need tο gеt mу wisdom teeth taken out. I want gοοd coverage.
PPO is generally the better way to go. You have more freedom in choosing physicans, fewer problems with pre-existing conditions, and pre-authorizations. However, the premiums are usually higher. HMOs generally require you have a Primary Care Physican (PCP). You have to go to that physician no matter what your problem is and he/she has to recommend you see a specialist. You can’t just go see an ear, nose, & throat specialist unless your PCP approves it.
Keep in mind this is not set in stone. All insurances are different and all policies are different. READ through the policy carefully before you buy it.
HMO has a closed network of doctors you may attend, it might be cheaper but if your favorite doctor is not in the HMO’s network than you can not attend that doctor, HMO would not support it. As for PPO, it may cost a little more but you can attend any doctor you wish to attend. No closed network.