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Types of Plans

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What do the "letters" in health insurance plans mean? When comparing Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana options, you might come across PPO, POS and HSA just to name a few.

We can help you navigate these plan types. They fall into two main categories: 

  • Network plans
  • Health account funding plans

BCBSMT may not offer all plan types for all members. To learn about the plans available for you to enroll in as a BCBSMT member, please contact your licensed health insurance sales agent or contact us.

 

Health Insurance Network Plans

There are different types of health insurance plans for different needs. Some types of plans limit coverage to a list of doctors, hospitals and other medical providers. Another type may not require you to see your primary care physician before getting a referral to see a specialist. One type of plan may cover out-of-network services while another may not. Get to know the ABCs of the three main types of insurance plans.

What is a PPO?

Preferred Provider Organizations give you choice and flexibility

Understand PPOs

What is an HMO?

Health Maintenance Organizations offer you value and savings

Understand HMOs

What is a POS?

Point Of Service plans give you a balance of flexibility and value

Understand POSs

How do alternative health plans compare to traditional health insurance?

The main difference is that health plan alternatives might not have to meet the same requirements as average health insurance plans. They might have different benefits, coverage timelines, networks or costs. Understand health plan alternatives, like short-term plans faith-based plans and direct primary care, and how they compare to BCBSMT's options.

Consumer Directed Health Plans

A Consumer Directed Health Plan (CDHP) is a type of health plan where you can use pre-tax dollars in your health care account to pay for eligible health care costs. Here are two types of CDHPs.

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What is an FSA?

Not sure what a Flexible Spending Account is? We have answers.

Learn about FSAs
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What is an HSA?

Need more information about Health Spending Accounts? We've got you covered.

Learn about HSAs