These describe how a plan manages access to providers. An HMO requires a primary care physician and referrals and generally covers only in-network care; a PPO is the most flexible (no referrals, some out-of-network coverage); an EPO covers only in-network care but skips referrals; and a POS plan blends HMO and PPO features.
POS Plans
POS stands for Point of Service. It’s a type of health plan that functions like an HMO when receiving in-network services (so a PCP and referrals may be required), but, unlike an HMO, it does provide some out-of-network benefits.