We get it. "Benefits-speak" can seem like a completely foreign language. That's why we will be offering a word of the day feature - to help make benefits more understandable so you can use your benefits effectively.
Today's word is EPO - Exclusive Provider Organization.
An EPO is a plan in which you must use only providers who are listed in the plan's network (known as in-network providers) for all of your medical care. The only exception is for a medical emergency; in that case you can go to any hospital emergency department.
An EPO typically uses a national network that may be similar to or even identical to the insurance carrier's PPO plan (Preferred Provider Organization). This makes it a lot easier to stay "in-network" and not have to pay for care out of your pocket other than the copays listed in the plan summary found in our Benefits Guide.