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What is the difference between an HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plan?

What is the difference between an HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plan?

Plans Types
Last updated: 
April 10, 2026
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The short answer

An HMO Medicare Advantage plan requires you to use a defined network of doctors and typically requires referrals to see specialists. A PPO gives you more flexibility to see out-of-network providers, though you will usually pay more when you do.

The full explanation

Both HMO and PPO are types of Medicare Advantage plans, and the core difference is how much freedom you have in choosing where you get care.With an HMO, you pick a primary care doctor from the plan's network, and that doctor coordinates your care. If you need to see a specialist, you usually need a referral first. Going outside the network is generally not covered except in a true emergency. In exchange for those restrictions, HMO plans often have lower monthly premiums and more predictable costs.A PPO gives you more flexibility. You can see doctors inside or outside the plan's network, and you typically do not need a referral to see a specialist. Out-of-network care is covered, just at a higher cost share than in-network visits. PPO plans usually come with somewhat higher premiums to offset that added flexibility.There is also a variation called an HMO-POS, or point of service, which adds a limited ability to go out of network in certain situations. That sits somewhere between a traditional HMO and a PPO.If you have longstanding relationships with specific doctors, travel frequently, or live in an area where one health system does not cover all your needs, the flexibility of a PPO may be worth the extra cost. If you are comfortable staying within a network and want simpler, lower costs, an HMO can work well. Plan details and costs vary by carrier and location, so checking current options is always a good idea.

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In 

Utah

 specifically

In Utah, both HMO and PPO Medicare Advantage plans are available from carriers like SelectHealth, UHC, Humana, Regence BlueCross, and others. Because many Utah HMO plans are anchored to either Intermountain Health or University of Utah Health, your choice of plan type also affects which health system you are primarily working within.

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What this means for you

For you, this means an HMO works best if you are happy staying within one network and want lower costs, while a PPO makes more sense if you want the freedom to see a wider range of doctors without needing permission first.

Related Questions

What is Medicare Advantage?

Can I go out of network with a Medicare Advantage PPO?

Do Medicare Advantage plans limit which doctors I can see?

Do I need referrals to see specialists with Medicare?

Are PPOs usually better than HMOs for rural Utah residents?

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