Plan Types
Compare different plan structures — HMO, PPO, EPO, POS, and HDHP — to understand tradeoffs between cost and provider flexibility.
12 Terms in This Topic
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PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)
A flexible plan that lets you see any doctor without a referral, with lower costs in-network.
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POS Plan (Point of Service)
A hybrid plan requiring a PCP and referrals for specialists, but allowing some out-of-network care.
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Platinum Plan
The highest-premium ACA plan, covering roughly 90% of average healthcare costs.
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Head-to-Head Comparisons
The core trade-off: HMOs are cheaper but restrict you to a network and require referrals. PPOs cost more but let you see any doctor without a referral.
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HDHPs have lower premiums but higher deductibles and unlock HSA eligibility. PPOs have higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs when you use care.
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Top Providers
Companies offering plan types plans. Click any card to visit their official website.
UnitedHealthcare
uhc.com
Largest US health insurer. Offers HMO, PPO, EPO, and HDHP plans through employers and the ACA marketplace.
Blue Cross Blue Shield
bcbs.com
Nationwide network of independent BCBS companies covering all 50 states. Offers HMO, PPO, POS, and HDHP plans.
Aetna (CVS Health)
aetna.com
National insurer offering HMO, PPO, EPO, and HDHP plans through employers and the marketplace.
Cigna Healthcare
cigna.com
Global health services company offering HMO, PPO, EPO, and HDHP plans, with strong international coverage.
Humana
humana.com
Major insurer offering PPO, HMO, and HDHP plans through employers and the marketplace.
Kaiser Permanente
kaiserpermanente.org
Integrated HMO with its own hospitals and doctors across 8 states + D.C. Known for coordinated, affordable care.
Elevance Health (Anthem)
elevancehealth.com
One of the largest BCBS licensees. Offers HMO, PPO, EPO, POS, and HDHP plans across many states.
Oscar Health
hioscar.com
Tech-focused insurer offering HMO and EPO marketplace plans with virtual care and a $0 copay primary care model.
Ambetter (Centene)
ambetterhealth.com
ACA marketplace-focused insurer offering low-cost HMO and EPO plans in many states.
Molina Healthcare
molinahealthcare.com
Specializes in Medicaid and ACA marketplace plans for low- to moderate-income individuals and families.
Availability varies by state, age, and plan type. Always verify current offerings with the provider.
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