PPO or HMO: The Difference It Means in Health Insurance

Each year, US residents must choose their health insurance. Knowing the difference between PPO and HMO can help consumers decide which type of coverage works best for them. Here at Linda Dugan Insurance, we want our clients in Astoria, OR to understand the choice between an HMO and a PPO.

HMO Insurance

The abbreviation HMO refers to a Health Maintenance Organization. This type of health insurance limits the purchaser to its specific physicians and medical centers. Typically, an individual would need to obtain a referral from their in-plan primary care physician to see a specialist. They would have added steps to complete to see a physician outside of the HMO plan choices. In an emergency, the individual can obtain treatment at any facility, but they will pay for using an out-of-network option.

Because you give up choices and agree to use in-plan medical providers, the HMO plans cost less in premiums. You may get to choose your deductible.

PPO Insurance

The abbreviation PPO refers to a Preferred Provider Organization, an insurance option that lets the individual choose their physician regardless of the network. PPOs have medical provider networks, and visits to the in-plan options may cost less. Unlike HMOs, a PPO does not require referrals. The patient can visit any specialist they choose.

PPOs charge a bit more in premiums for the privilege of these choices. They sometimes offer specialty coverage, such as wellness plans.

Making Your Choice

When choosing between an HMO and PPO, consider your medical needs. If you have a pre-existing condition that requires a specialist, consider a PPO. Without any existing issues, check with your doctor to determine which insurance options the office accepts. Choose an HMO that it accepts to work around the choice issue.

Contact Us Today

Contact Linda Dugan Insurance serving Astoria, OR, and the surrounding area with health insurance. Let us help you purchase the coverage you need.

Beyond Sunshine and Rainbows: The Benefits of Having Umbrella Insurance in Oregon

Life in Oregon can be unpredictable and unexpected events can cast a shadow over your financial well-being. Umbrella Insurance can shield you and your loved ones from the rain when dire circumstances strike! 

Linda Dugan Insurance can show you how umbrella insurance can shield you from unexpected storms and the benefits of having umbrella insurance in Astoria, OR. 

How Umbrella Insurance Protects Your Financial Well-Being

Umbrella insurance is an add-on insurance that extends the coverage limits in your existing home or auto insurance policy when you have a covered incident or claim. 

This backup insurance acts like a financial security blanket when the limits of your auto or home insurance policy run out. Knowledgeable insurance agents at Linda Dugan Insurance in Astoria can talk to you about the best umbrella insurance coverage.

Benefits of Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance gives policyholders peace of mind when they know their most valued possessions are protected. 

Below are a few more benefits of Umbrella Insurance in Oregon.

  • Extended Liability Protection – umbrella insurance can extend liability protection on existing auto and homeowners insurance policies. 
  • Comprehensive Insurance Coverage Options – get comprehensive coverage options for your home, auto, or watercraft with an umbrella insurance policy. 
  • Lawsuit Defense – get financial protection from legal claims. 

Licensed insurance agents can help you tailor an umbrella insurance policy to cover insurance-related claims like personal injury or property damage claims that can lead to spending thousands of dollars out of pocket for people without extended coverage.

Get Umbrella Insurance in Astoria, OR!

Don’t wait until you reach the limits of your auto insurance or homeowners policy! Contact an umbrella insurance agent at Linda Dugan Insurance and start an umbrella insurance policy to protect your most prized possessions today!