Travel coverage
Unlike HMO plans, PPO plans often provide coverage for health care while you’re away from home.
Many Medicare Advantage insurance providers offer two types of plan structures: Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) and Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). HMO plans require that policyholders use their network of hospitals, doctors, and other healthcare professionals with exceptions only for emergencies. PPO plans, on the other hand, have similar networks but policyholders are not required to use in-network providers.
Medicare Advantage PPO plans offer more freedom of choice than HMO plans. If you use their in-network providers, your costs may be lower, but you are much less limited in choosing your care, and will also have better and more flexible coverage while traveling.
Unlike HMO plans, PPO plans often provide coverage for health care while you’re away from home.
Some Medicare Advantage PPO plans cover prescribed medications.
Preventative dental care, such as checkups and cleanings, may be covered.
Eye exams and other vision benefits may be available with Part C PPO plans.
Coverage | HMO Plans | PPO Plans | SNPs |
Charges monthly premium | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Covers prescription drugs | Sometimes | Sometimes | Yes |
Allows out-of-network coverage | Sometimes | Yes | Sometimes |
Requires primary care physician | Sometimes | No | Sometimes |
Requires referrals for specialist care | Yes | No | Sometimes |
Who is eligible for Medicare PPO plans?
Medicare Part C plans, including Medicare Advantage PPO plans, are available to anyone eligible for Original Medicare (Parts A & B, through the federal government). Medicare is available to U.S. citizens qualifying by age or special qualifying conditions.
How do I enroll in a Medicare PPO?
Enroll in a Medicare Advantage PPO plan during a qualified Medicare Enrollment Period. Here are a few of the most common times of year to enroll in, or change, your Medicare Part C coverage:
To enroll in a plan, you can compare online or speak to an agent by calling 1-855-200-9406 between 6:00 am and 5:00 pm MT, Monday through Friday.
Do Medicare PPO plans charge a monthly premium?
Yes, Medicare Advantage PPO plans do charge a monthly premium. Monthly premiums associated with PPO plans are generally higher than those associated with HMO plans due to the broader range of coverage.
Are prescription drugs covered by Medicare PPOs?
Some, but not all, Medicare Advantage PPO plans cover prescription drugs. If you prefer an HMO plan with prescription drug coverage, speak to an agent by calling 1-855-200-9406 between 6:00 am and 5:00 pm MT, Monday through Friday. Let the agent know your preference and they can help you find the plan that fits.
Can I use any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare for covered services?
Unlike HMO plans, which have required provider networks, PPO plans allow you to use any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare for covered services. However, if you use a provider or hospital outside the PPO network, there may be additional costs for care.
Do I need to choose a primary care provider (PCP)?
No, with PPO plans you do not need to choose a primary care provider (PCP).
Do I have to get a referral to see a specialist?
No, with PPO plans you do not need to get a referral to see a specialist.
Are my Medicare PPO options limited based on the state I live in?
All Medicare Advantage plans must offer equivalent coverage to that provided by Original Medicare (Parts A & B) through the federal government. What varies plan-by-plan are the additional benefits available and their associated costs.
To learn what’s available in your area, speak to an agent by calling 1-855-200-9406 between 6:00 am and 5:00 pm MT, Monday through Friday.
Learn about Medicare Advantage, also referred to as Medicare Part C, coverage.
When is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period? Get answers to this and other AEP-related questions.
Get fast facts about Medicare Enrollment, including when you qualify and when to enroll.