From the providers perspective a POS plan is often called an HMO/PPO hybrid or an "open-ended" HMO. The "point-of-service" refers to the fact that the plan allows members to choose which option - HMO or PPO - they will use when they seek health care. The POS plan has a contracted provider network. Typically, POS plans encourage, but don't require, members to choose a primary care physician (PCP). An in a traditional HMO, the PCP acts as the "gatekeeper" when making referrals. If a member chooses to not use their PCPs for referrals (but still seek care from an in-network provider) they will still receive benefits but will pay higher copays and/or deductibles than members who use their PCPs directly or for referrals. If a member chooses to visit an out-of-network provider then their copays, coinsurance, and deductibles are substanstially higher. POS plans are becoming more popular because they offer more flexibility and freedom of choice than standard HMOs.

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