What is a PPO health insurance plan?

A PPO health insurance plan is a network insurance policy in which a covered person doesn't have to elect a primary care physician. Instead, members are able to use both in-network and out-of-network providers without a referral. However, benefits are greatest when an in-network provider is used for care.

The most compelling in-network advantages include lower copayments and full coverage on covered services. In contrast, out-of-network services aren't always covered, and the member often has higher out-of-pocket costs. In addition to an annual deductible, which is common with a PPO, covered members often pay copayments ranging from $10 to $30 for certain medical services.