The choices of affordable health insurance plans today seem endless. It can be very difficult to decide what is best with so many available options. Three main types of health insurance include: PPOs, HMOs, and POSs.

A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) covers several of your health care needs for a small per-visit fee if you choose from the list of preferred providers. PPOs do give you the freedom to see whichever doctor you prefer. However, the costs will be much lower if you stay within the network. PPOs are ideal for people who visit the doctor less often. Preventive care benefits and generic drug prescriptions at participating pharmacies are available in PPOs for a fixed co-payment before meeting the deductible.

Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO) are the least expensive option, but they have more limited care. For a set monthly fee, HMOs offer a range of health benefits. Services that are provided by healthcare professionals outside of the HMO network usually are not covered. HMOs are ideal for people who visit the doctor more frequently. With HMOs, preventative care is serviced at no extra charge. Visits to your primary care physician and generic prescription drugs at certain drug stores are available for a minimal $10 co-payment.

Point of Service Plans (POS) give individuals the freedom to choose between an HMO or a PPO option at the time service is rendered. The POS plan requires individuals to have a primary care physician, but gives individuals a choice of whether or not to seek services within the network.