What Is a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)?
PPO plans let you see any doctor or specialist without a referral, both in-network and out-of-network (though out-of-network costs more). PPOs are the most flexible plan type and are a common choice for people with multiple doctors or established specialist care.
Best for: people with established specialist relationships, frequent travelers, or anyone who values the flexibility to see any provider without referrals.
Watch out for: PPOs have higher premiums than HMOs or EPOs. Out-of-network care on a PPO still costs significantly more than in-network care — always try to use in-network providers.
PPO Plans Available in South Carolina
The following carriers offer PPO health insurance plans in South Carolina for 2026: BlueCross BlueShield of SC, Ambetter from Absolute Total Care, Molina Healthcare.
The dominant carrier in most South Carolina counties is BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina.
South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid. BCBS of SC is by far the dominant insurer and offers both HMO and PPO products in most counties.
Plan availability and premium amounts vary by ZIP code and county. Rural counties often have fewer
carrier options than major metro areas. Always compare all plans available in your specific ZIP code
rather than shopping by carrier name alone.
How to Compare PPO Plans in South Carolina
When comparing PPO plans in South Carolina, look at:
- Network: Confirm your doctors and preferred hospitals are in the plan’s network
- Deductible: How much you pay before insurance starts covering costs
- Out-of-pocket maximum: The most you’ll pay in a plan year
- Premium: Your monthly cost after any applicable ACA subsidies
- Drug formulary: Whether your prescription medications are covered at a preferred tier
An independent broker compares all South Carolina marketplace plans in your ZIP code without charging fees.