Whether you have started a new job and have to choose a medical insurance plan or you're shopping for medical insurance on the open market, it can be overwhelming and confusing. Two of the most popular types of insurance plans include preferred provider organizations (PPO) and health maintenance organizations (HMO).Many people do not understand the difference between these two options, and while they do have some similarities, they also very different from each other in several ways. Some people prefer having PPO medical insurance for a number of reasons. Some of the top benefits of PPO medical insurance include the following.

Gives a Patient Flexibility

One reason that many people prefer a PPO over a HMO is the fact that a PPO gives a patient more flexibility. With an HMO, there is a designated list of medical providers, clinics, and hospitals that a patient can use. If a patient goes to a doctor, clinic,or hospital that is not a part of the HMO, their claim will not be paid. On the other hand, a PPO allows a patient to see any doctor that they wish, and choose clinics and hospitals to use. While some providers, clinics, and hospitals are considered in-network with a PPO, which means that the insurance company will pay a bigger portion of the bill, the insurance company will still pay the majority of a claim if a patient sees an out-of-network provider.

Referrals Are Not Required

One of the key features of an HMO is the fact that a patient has a primary care physician that makes decisions about a patient's care. If a patient needs to see a specialist for any reason, he or she must first schedule an appointment with their primary care physician. The primary care physician will then decide if more specialized care is needed and will make a referral to a specialist. If you opt for a PPO medical insurance plan, you will not have to worry about getting a referral from your primary care physician. If you need to see a dermatologist, endocrinologist, or a psychiatrist, you can choose your provider and schedule the appointment on your own.

More Control Over Healthcare

A lot of people like PPO medical insurance plans because it gives them more control over their healthcare. With a PPO medical insurance plan, a patient can research different providers and make a decision about who he or she wants to see for treatment and care. The same can be said about clinics, hospitals, and other medical facilities. If a person has an HMO medical insurance plan, he or she is restricted to a small number of providers and very little choice over what hospital or clinic to visit if they want their medical insurance company to pay any of their claim. 

For more information, contact a medical insurance provider.