The PPO

Preferred Provider Organization or PPO is the next generation of the HMO. You designate a network of hospital and doctors by whichever insurance you buy. For instance, Company XYZ's Fire Fun Insurance might have a Fire Fun network of doctors and hospitals. If you visit a doctor in the Fire Fun network you pay the normal insurance rates (whatever co-pay, deductible, etc. your policy states); however, if you visit a hospital or doctor outside your network, you will often pay an increased amount. 

The important thing to know about PPO's is what doctor you would like to see and if they are in your network.  You can't forget hospitals! If the nearest hospital in your PPO is 100 miles away, perhaps another insurance plan is right for you.  If you have to regularly visit a specialist, we advise you research the nearest specialist in your PPO. Those three urologist in town do little good if they are not in your PPO.