Comparing Healthcare Plans

When it comes to healthcare, there are many options on the market. Healthcare providers and insurers are aware different individuals will have different priorities, medical needs, budget constraints, and so on. As such, there is a constellation of health insurance services offering different coverage options, price levels, deductibles, and in-network versus out-of-network options for primary and specialized care. Insurers perpetually balance medical and ethical considerations with the financial restrictions and realities that prevent unlimited healthcare for low prices, as it would quickly bankrupt the providers.

Let's review these options now.

Point-Of-Service Plans

First, we come to point-of-service (POS) plans, which are based on a primary care physician and a network of providers. Primary care physicians are the patient's first stop for healthcare, with referrals to in-network specialists covered to a great extent by the point-of-service plans. A point-of-service plan does not limit a customer to only referred specialists or in-network providers, but out-of-network providers or visits outside of a referral by the primary will incur a greater out-of-pocket cost. In exchange for this mild in vs. out-of-network distinction and the importance of referrals in getting maximum coverage, POS plans are rather affordable.

Continue reading to learn about maintenance organizations.