Which type of health insurance allows patients to choose providers outside their network?

The correct answer is the Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), as this type of health insurance is designed to give patients the flexibility to choose healthcare providers, including those outside of the network. With a PPO, members can receive care from any provider, but they will generally pay less out-of-pocket when they use network providers. The ability to see healthcare professionals who are not part of the plan's network is a defining feature of PPOs, making them appealing to individuals who value choice and flexibility in their healthcare.

In contrast, a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) typically requires members to select a primary care physician and obtain referrals for specialists within the network, offering less flexibility when it comes to choosing providers. An Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) offers a network similar to a PPO but does not cover any care provided outside the network, except in emergencies. Lastly, a Point of Service (POS) plan combines features of both HMOs and PPOs but still generally emphasizes network providers and requires referrals for certain services, thereby providing less freedom than a PPO.