A PPO is a out of network benefits provider. With the PPO option you can consult a provider that is not under the contract. With the EPO option your claim will be denied if you consult someone that is not a PPO provider.
EPO members do not receive any reimbursement or benefit if they choose to visit medical care providers outside of the designated doctors and hospitals within the established network. Unlike EPO members, however, PPO members are reimbursed for using medical care providers outside of the designated doctors and hospitals.
An EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization) is a type of managed care plan where members must receive healthcare services from a network of providers, except in cases of emergency care. There is no coverage for out-of-network services, except in emergencies. A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) also has a network of providers, but members have the flexibility to see out-of-network providers at a higher cost. PPO members do not need a referral to see a specialist, while EPO members typically do.
Based on my personal experience and extensive research, PPOs give you the most flexibility; the downside is a higher premium. I am in a PPO currently, after running into unacceptable out-of-pocket costs with an HMO.
Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) - There are two types of EPO plans. The current industry standard requires that a patient select a Primary Care Physician (PCP) (some patients may only have to choose a medical group) and when needed obtain authorization from that PCP to receive specialty services. A patient must stay within the contract network and only use preferred providers. There typically is a lifetime policy maximum with this type of plan. In the event a patient goes out of network (OON) they may be responsible for the entire balance that is not paid by the payer associated with the services provided. The other type of EPO is one where the benefits are those of a PPO but the provider panel from which members obtain care is smaller than a PPO panel.
PPO is always better you pay more for it but it pays off as soon as you use it
highmarkmedigap
The one that is better depends on your actual medical needs, and your desire for flexibility with the doctors that you see. In a HMO, you are restricted to a network of doctors, and typically there is no coverage if you go to an out of network doctor. In a PPO, you get more affordable coverage when you stay in network but you can go out of network if you have to. You still have coverage out of network in a PPO, but you pay more before the insurance pays. For these reasons, HMO's are less expensive than PPO's.
do you except ppo insurance
Administrator
EPO stands for Erythropoietin, EPO is a protein hormone produced by the kidney. In sports its being used to increases oxygen carrying capacity.
Low levels of EPO are found in anemic patients with inadequate or absent production of erythropoietin. Severe kidney disease may decrease production of EPO, and congenital absence of EPO can occur. Elevated levels of EPO.