Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans are an extremely popular option. While there is a network that’s provided in a PPO, it’s less strict. This means that it’s possible to receive care out-of-network and still have coverage. However, coverage may not always be the same as if you had gone to an in-network provider, and out-of-network coverage will cost more. 

The majority of PPOs cover prescription drugs. A stand-alone Part D plan isn’t available for those that are enrolled in Medicare Advantage. So, if you want prescription drug coverage, you’ll need to make sure that it’s included in your Advantage plan. You may hear these referred to as MAPDs.

Another unique feature of PPOs is that beneficiaries don’t have to officially select a primary care physician (PCP). One of the reasons for this is that PPOs don’t ask their beneficiaries to get a referral if they need to see a specialist.