Not so much a different type of plan but more of a modified PPO or HMO, Point-of-Service Plans are also often referred to as an open-ended HMO or PPO. A POS usually has a smaller group of providers to choose from than a traditional PPO but gives the same freedom and flexibility to choose any provider within that small network. The POS plan also allows out of network care, but offers substantially lower rates to use those in the network. The POS basically offers the consumer something with a little more flexibility than a typical HMO or PPO that costs a bit more for that greater ability to choose.
Like a traditional HMO upon signing up for a POS plan, you will be required to choose a primary care physician to monitor your health
Care, and will require a referral to participating practitioners within the plan. Yet unlike an HMO you can seek care outside of the provider network, making the POS a bit like the PPO plan. When receiving care through your primary care physician, or being referred to a specialist within the network of your primary care physician, you will receive more comprehensive benefits and pay less out-of-pocket for these services. POS plans also resemble indemnity plans in that there is usually a deductible that needs to be met when using services from providers within the network and a coinsurance payment. When seeking treatment from a physician outside of the network the part you pay will be greater. So you can choose to go outside of the network but you will have to pay more for it. But for people who can afford it they like this freedom of choice that a POS provides. With a POS you are far more in control of your financial and medical decisions then in any other type of managed care plan.