review" in advance. Comparison to exclusive provider organization (EPO) A PPO is a healthcare benefit arrangement that is similar to an exclusive provider organization (EPO) in structure, administration, and operation. Unlike EPO members, however, PPO members are reimbursed for using medical care providers outside of their network of designated doctors and hospitals. However, when they use out-of-network providers PPO members are reimbursed at a reduced rate that may include higher deductibles and co-payments, lower reimbursement percentages, or a combination of these financial penalties. EPO members, on the other hand, receive no reimbursement or benefit if they visit medical care providers outside of their designated network of doctors and hospitals. EPOs do allow reimbursement outside of the network in emergency cases, per the Affordable Care Act. See also Dental plan Health maintenance organization Independent practice association Point of service plan Silent PPO Single-payer health care References External links healthinsurance.about.com: HMOs vs. PPOs – What Are the Differences Between HMOs and PPOs? (2010) Healthcare Network Information Health insurance in the United States Managed care