preferred-provider organization

D.C. must allow another preferred-provider organization option to provide for individuals and families.

Blue Shield and Sutter said they have agreed to a six-month transition period for people with preferred-provider organization, or PPO, plans.

A preferred-provider organization, or PPO, plan costs $145 per month.

The scores issued Wednesday focus on California's 10 largest HMOs, the six biggest preferred-provider organization plans and more than 200 physician groups covering 16 million consumers.

The figures are adjusted for inflation and are for preferred-provider organization plans, which restrict coverage to certain doctors.