Illinois Health Insurance Practice Exam

What benefit does the insured receive in Point of Service (POS) plans regarding network access?

1. Unlimited healthcare options

2. No deductible or coinsurance required

3. Ability to visit providers outside the network with higher deductibles and coinsurance

4. Free preventive care services

The correct answer is: Ability to visit providers outside the network with higher deductibles and coinsurance

In a Point of Service (POS) plan, the insured indeed has the benefit of accessing providers outside of the network, though doing so typically comes with higher deductibles and coinsurance. This plan type combines features of both Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs). While the insured can choose to receive care from network providers at a lower cost, they also have the flexibility to seek treatment from out-of-network providers. This flexibility is a distinguishing feature of POS plans, making them an attractive option for individuals who want the freedom to choose their healthcare providers. The other choices do not accurately describe core benefits of POS plans. For instance, while preventive care is usually covered in many health plans, it is not a unique benefit of POS plans specifically. Similarly, the assertion of having unlimited healthcare options or the absence of deductibles and coinsurance does not correctly reflect the structure of these plans, as the defined costs and options are a crucial aspect of their design.