The point of service (POS) plan is a hybrid health insurance plan which contains features in the PPO and HMO plans. Just like other healthcare plan, there is a network of participating doctor which the patient must first turn to. If your condition cannot be treated by the participating doctor, you will receive permission to see a different specialist. As long as you follow the system of the POS plan, you will be covered.

The patient is asked to select a physician from the network. When you need medical service, you will see the physician. This particular physician will have the authority to refer you to another specialist. Most POS organization have approved providers in different states so you are not limited to a geographical location. If you need special medical attention, you can seek the advice of a health insurance company regarding the available approved doctors. If you choose to hire a non approved doctor, you will have to pay majority of the medical bills.

The coverage in a POS health plan includes preventive care, checkups, inpatient services and outpatient services. Policy holders have to pay for a monthly premium and copayment. Patients are not required to submit paperwork such as filling the claim forms if they use an in network doctor. If you use an out of network doctor, you will be required to pay for a deductible amount and fill out claim forms. The health insurance company will only pay for the medical bills after the claim is approved.