| Under a PPO benefit plan, covered |
| individuals retain the freedom of choice |
| of providers but may incur out-of-pocket |
| costs if they elect to use providers |
| outside the preferred provider network. |
| Similar to a POS plan. |
|
| A POS plan is one in which patients |
| can receive care either by physicians |
| contracting with the HMO, or by |
| non-contracted physicians. Patients |
| who utilize non-contracted services may |
| pay more out of pocket expenses. These |
| plans offer a method for patients to utilize |
| a managed care plan, without restricting |
| their freedom of choice. |
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