POS
A Point of Service plan that blends HMO and PPO features: you usually need a primary doctor and referrals, but some out-of-network care is covered.
In plain English
Like an HMO with a partial escape hatch for out-of-network care.
Why it matters when choosing a plan
Useful if you want lower costs but occasional out-of-network flexibility.
Related terms
HMO
Choosing the right health insurance plan is one of the most important financial and medical decisions you will make. Among the various options available in the United States, the HMO , or Health Maintenance Organization, remains one of the most popular choices for individuals, families, and employers.
PPO
Finding the right balance between cost and flexibility is a core challenge when choosing health insurance. A PPO , or Preferred Provider Organization, is a type of health plan that offers a significant amount of freedom in how you access medical care.
Referral
In the United States healthcare system, a referral is a formal written order from your primary care provider (PCP) that allows you to see a specialist or receive specific medical services. This process ensures that you receive the right level of care from the appropriate medical professional at the right time.
Related guides and articles
The complete guide to choosing a health insurance plan
Choosing health insurance can feel overwhelming. There are unfamiliar terms, dozens of plans, and real money at stake.
HMO vs PPO vs EPO: how to choose without the jargon
HMO, PPO, EPO — the letters can make choosing a plan feel like an alphabet test. The good news is that they're describing just one thing: how the plan's network of doctors and hospitals works.