what is the difference between a ppo and a pos 
the biggest difference between ppo and pos plans is generally flexibility both plans cover you whether you use providers and facilities in or out of the network however a pos requires you to have a primary care physician and get referrals from them if you want to see a specialist or anyone else ppos don t costs are another consideration ppos tend to be more expensive than pos plans the premiums are higher and they usually come with deductibles that must be met before your coverage begins the bottom linea preferred provider organization ppo is a type of managed care health insurance plan ppo plan participants are free to use the services of any provider within their network they are encouraged but not required to name a primary care physician and don t need referrals to visit a specialist ppo plans are more comprehensive in their coverage and offer a wider range of providers and services than hmos however the costs associated with ppos include higher insurance premiums copays and deductibles choosing between a ppo and an hmo generally involves weighing one s desire for greater accessibility to doctors and services versus the cost of the plan 