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PPO plans give you the flexibility to use in- or out-of-network providers without referrals. A higher level of benefits is provided when in-network providers are used, resulting in lower out-of-pocket costs for you.

• PPO plans are available through both Highmark and UPMC.

HMO/EPO plans have low out-of-pocket expenses (no deductible or coinsurance) but do not provide benefits if you use out-of-network providers (except in the case of an emergency). Referrals to specialist care and related services are not required in most circumstances.

• Plans are available through both Highmark and UPMC:
  • The UPMC HMO is available to faculty and staff in Western Pennsylvania only.
  • The Highmark EPO is available to faculty and staff at all domestic locations.

High-Deductible PPO plans have a higher deductible and a lower monthly premium. Once your health care expenses for the year exceed your deductible, the PPO plan begins paying benefits. Ò»±¾µÀÎÞÂë offers a Health Savings Account (HSA) that you can use to help pay for eligible deductible expenses. An HSA is a federally tax-deferred, private savings account designed to give you a way to pay for eligible medical, prescription, dental and vision expenses with tax-free dollars. You decide how much to put in your account (based on IRS limits set each year), and you retain ownership of the account even if you leave Ò»±¾µÀÎÞÂë or retire.

• HSA plans are available through both Highmark and UPMC.
• View the HSA Overview [pdf] for more information.