Last reviewed June 2026

Can a high-deductible health plan be an HMO or PPO?

Short answer: Yes. An HDHP is defined by its deductible and out-of-pocket limits, not its network, so it can be offered as a PPO, HMO, EPO, or POS, and if it meets IRS rules, it’s HSA-eligible.

“High-deductible health plan” describes the cost-sharing structure, not the network, so insurers offer HDHP versions of PPOs, HMOs, EPOs, and POS plans. To be HSA-qualified, the HDHP must also meet the IRS minimum-deductible and maximum-out-of-pocket thresholds (for 2026, a $1,700 self-only / $3,400 family minimum deductible) and can’t pay for non-preventive care before the deductible is met.

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