UC offers both PPOs and HMOs, which work very differently. These questions can help you figure out whether a PPO is right for you.
| Would you rather have: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Generally lower paycheck contributions but higher out-of-pocket costs when you get care. | OR | Generally higher paycheck contributions but predictable expenses when I get care. |
| Flexibility to see any doctor—and self-refer to specialists—in exchange for higher out-of-pocket costs for care. | OR | Lower out-of-pocket costs in exchange for being restricted to a specific group of doctors and hospitals, with all care coordinated by a primary care physician. |
| Broad coverage for prescription drugs, including brand-name medications. | OR | More limited prescription drug coverage in exchange for lower out-of-pocket costs. |
| Coverage for you or dependents who live or travel outside California or the U.S. | OR | Coverage within my home region. |
If more of your preferences are in the left column, a PPO plan might work well for you. If more of your preferences are in the right column, an HMO might work well for you.