Why people choose a private PPO
- No referrals to see specialists.
- National networks that travel with you.
- Year-round enrollment on private PPO plans.
- Plans from $426/month on Ameristead's Cigna PPO plans (HSA 8500, employee only, Nov. 2026).
PPO vs. HMO vs. EPO at a glance
Want the full breakdown, including HSA plans? Read our PPO vs HMO vs EPO comparison.
| Feature | PPO | EPO | HMO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Referrals for specialists | Not required | Usually not required | Usually required |
| Out-of-network coverage | Partial (at higher cost) | Emergencies only | Emergencies only |
| Typical premium | Highest | Middle | Lowest |
| Good for | Travelers, multi-state families, specific specialists | People happy with one network | Budget-focused, local care |
Where to find individual PPO plans with nationwide coverage
- Private group-style plans — for example, Ameristead plans use Cigna PPO networks and are administered by Marpai Health.
- Plans using the First Health network — a national PPO network used by a number of private plans.
- UnitedHealthOne / Golden Rule plans that use UnitedHealthcare's network.
Can you keep your doctor? How to check before you buy
- Get the exact plan and network name (not just the carrier name).
- Search the network's provider directory for each doctor and hospital.
- Call the doctor's office and ask whether they accept that specific network.
- Check your prescriptions against the plan's drug list.
Nationwide PPO health insurance
Health insurance with nationwide coverage usually means a private plan that uses a national PPO network such as First Health or Cigna's.
Can I keep my doctor with private health insurance?
Only if your doctor is in the plan's network. Before you apply, search the network directory for each doctor and call the office to confirm.
Not sure a PPO is right? Compare PPO vs HMO vs EPO plans.
Talk to a licensed agent today. Call (813) 724-3314 (Monday–Saturday 8 AM–9 PM ET, Sunday closed) or Get your free quote in about a minute. We never charge you a fee for our help.
Frequently asked questions
Are PPO plans available for individuals?
Yes. Private plans using national PPO networks are available in many states, and we confirm what's offered in yours.
Is a PPO worth the higher premium?
If you travel, have family in multiple states, or need a specific specialist, a PPO's flexibility can be worth it.
How much does PPO health insurance cost?
It depends on the plan, your age and coverage level. Ameristead plans on the Cigna PPO network start at $426 a month for one person on the HSA 8500 plan, per Ameristead’s published plan chart (November 2026).
What is PPO insurance?
PPO stands for preferred provider organization. A PPO plan has a network of doctors and hospitals at negotiated rates, usually lets you see specialists without a referral, and typically pays benefits when you go out of network. Private PPO plans such as Ameristead and Amerus Summit use the Cigna network and can be bought year-round.
Does UnitedHealthcare have individual plans with a nationwide network?
Yes. UnitedHealthcare's short-term plans for individuals, sold through UnitedHealthOne and underwritten by Golden Rule Insurance Company, give access to UnitedHealthcare's nationwide network with no referrals needed to see a specialist. Network types vary by plan, so your agent checks each one.
What is a high-deductible PPO?
A high-deductible PPO is a PPO plan with a higher deductible in exchange for a lower premium. Some high-deductible plans are HSA-eligible under IRS rules, which lets you save in a Health Savings Account.
Looking at PPOs on the Cigna network? Amerus Ultimate PPO and Ultimate 5K PPO include copays for everyday care and no referrals.
To get the most from a PPO, it helps to understand in-network vs out-of-network care.
Related guides
Health insurance guides by state
Deadlines, exchanges, average premiums and short-term plan rules differ by state. Popular state guides:
Sources (checked November 4, 2026)
- Ameristead Health — Plans (network and administrator)
- KFF — Examining Short-Term Limited-Duration Health Plans
Plan availability and eligibility are determined by the carrier.