PPO vs. HDHP, What’s the Difference?
Choosing the right medical plan starts with understanding how each option works. Here’s a quick summary of how the Comfort Systems USA Gold, Silver and Bronze plans differ.
Review the Benefits Guide for complete details.
At a high level, the Gold Plan is a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), while the Silver and Bronze Plans are High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs). All medical plans have access to the Blue Cross Blue Shield network of doctors, but here’s how they differ:
Gold Plan (PPO)
Monthly Premiums
Higher
Deductible
Higher
Copays
Yes. You pay a flat fee for doctor visits and many other services
Out-of-Pocket Maximum
Lower than HDHP
Health Savings Account (HSA) Eligible
No
Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Eligible
Yes
Best For
Frequent doctor visits, predictable costs.
Silver and Bronze Plans (HDHP)
Monthly Premiums
Lower
Deductible
Higher
Copays
No. You pay the negotiated cost for care until you meet the deductible.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum
Higher than the PPO
Health Savings Account (HSA) Eligible
Yes
Healthcare Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Eligible
No
Best For
Lower healthcare use, long-term savings.
HDHPs are HSA-eligible!
If you enroll in the Silver or Bronze plan, you can open a Health Savings Account (HSA)—a triple tax-advantaged way to save for healthcare expenses now and in the future.
Triple Tax Advantage of an HSA
- Tax-Free Contributions – In most states, the money you and Comfort Systems USA contribute to your HSA are not taxed.
- Tax-Free Growth - Any interest or investment earnings your HSA balance earns are not taxed—allowing your money to grow over time.
- Tax-Free Withdrawals - When you use your HSA funds for qualified medical expenses, those withdrawals are also tax-free.
Need help choosing a plan?
Consider how often you visit the doctor, your prescription needs, and whether you want to take advantage of an HSA to build savings over time.
Take the Help Me Pick My Plan quiz and review the Medical Match-up tool to make an informed decision.
