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Health insurance basics

Understanding health insurance

Health insurance basics

Independence Blue Cross simplifies health insurance, helping you understand how it works, how to choose a plan, and how to get the most from your plan.

The basics

Learn about the fundamentals of individual and family health insurance. This page helps answer your basic health insurance questions and provides informational videos.

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What is an HMO?

Learn what an HMO insurance plan is and how it compares to other health plan types.

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What is a PPO?

Learn what a PPO health plan is and how it compares to other health plan types.

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What is an EPO?

Learn what an EPO Insurance plan is and if it’s a good fit for you and your family compared to an HMO or PPO.

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HMO vs. PPO

Deciding between an HMO and PPO health insurance plan? Learn the difference and find out which plan is right for you.

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How much does health insurance cost?

Health insurance costs explained: Learn what factors impact your costs in addition to your monthly premium.

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Health insurance terms

Basic health insurance terms explained. Refer to this list when you need help understanding the terms used in this section of ibx.com.

View glossary of terms