CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwire - January 19, 2011) - In the world of individual health insurance, there are two types of health plans most consumers choose: HMOs or PPOs. These plans are so popular simply because they provide the most generous benefits at an affordable cost.
"Because of health reform, we expect to see more consumers move from employer-based plans to the individual market. But because many of them have never shopped for health insurance, they will be unsure of which plan to choose. That's why it's very important for consumers to understand how HMOs and PPOs work because they're the most popular types of health insurance today," said Mark Colwell, Consumer Marketing Manager at GoHealthInsurance.com.
Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)
Pros:
HMO plans provide coverage for many different medical services such as preventive care, doctor care, and hospital and emergency care. HMOs also have lower monthly premiums than other major medical plans, low copayments for care and many times no annual deductible.
Cons:
HMO plans can be restrictive because a policyholder does not have any coverage for care received outside of the preferred network.
Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO)
Pros:
PPOs also provide coverage for a wide array of health services: preventive care, doctor care, and hospital and emergency care. In addition, PPO plans provide more flexibility when it comes to receiving care. Individuals can see in-network and out-of-network providers and have coverage without recommendations from a primary care physician.
Cons:
Because of the added flexibility, PPOs are more expensive than HMOs. Also, most PPOs will have an annual deductible to meet before the plan begins covering medical expenses.
Consumers can instantly compare health insurance quotes from the nation's leading insurance companies and apply online for coverage at www.GoHealthInsurance.com.
About GoHealthInsurance
GoHealth.com is the most complete health plan comparison resource online and has helped more than 2 million Americans obtain coverage. Consumers use the GoHealth.com platform to research, compare, and purchase coverage from the nation's top insurance companies using online technology, by phone, and through a nationwide network of trusted advisors.
Contact Information:
Contact:
Michael Mahoney
GoHealthInsurance
888-250-3409