What You Can Afford
Often, your financial situation will make the decision for you. HMOs are significantly cheaper, and limit your out-of-pocket costs. However, if you want more autonomy in making your healthcare decisions, PPOs are a better bet.
Choosing Your Doctor
Also, the relationship you have with your family doctor may be a factor in your decision. If you like your doctor and he or she is not a member of the HMO network, you will probably want to choose a PPO so that you can continue seeing him or her. However, if you do not have a single source of care, or are looking to change doctors, either option would work for you.
Whatever you decide, it will be better than having no insurance at all. Some people are perfectly happy with their HMOs, while others curse them bitterly. Some rave about their PPO plan, while others complain about the higher costs involved. Consider your options carefully and choose what makes the most sense for you and your family.
