Understanding Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs): Key Facts

* They contract with providers to provide services to their members at a discounted rate.

* Members of a PPO can see any provider they want, but they pay less if they see a provider within the network.

* Members may see out-of-network providers, but they will have to pay a higher coinsurance rate.

* Members may have to get a referral from their primary care physician before they can see a specialist.

* Members may have to pay a deductible before their coverage starts.