Learn About PPO Insurance Plans

Health insurance plans come in several different styles. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans include a network of health providers who have agreed to the fee and payment structure of the insurer. Because their costs are more predictable, these insurers are often able to offer lower premiums. PPO plans usually have a co-pay amount which the insured pay when they see the doctor. Beyond the co-pay, PPO plans usually have a deductible amount and a co-insurance amount for which insured patients are responsible. Most PPO plans also have an out-of-pocket maximum which is the most an insured patient will have to pay over the course of a coverage year. Most policies also have a maximum lifetime benefit, a maximum dollar value the plan will pay for a particular individual.