preferred provider

noun

1
: ppo
usually used attributively
2
: a health care provider (such as a doctor or hospital) that is part of a PPO

Examples of preferred provider in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Robinsons have a high-deductible preferred provider organization (PPO) health insurance plan through Russell's work as an education consultant. Kristen Jordan Shamus, USA Today, 19 May 2025 It was thought that those with preferred provider (PPO) or exclusive provider (EPO) plans would be able to immediately start scheduling appointments with Scripps doctors, as those plans do not require assignment of a primary care doctor as HMO plans do. Paul Sisson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 May 2025 This has led some people to give up access to preferred providers or even treatments to spend less out of pocket on health care by enrolling in Medicare Advantage. Grace McCormack, The Conversation, 3 Apr. 2025 The justices noted that if patients don’t have the power to sue over their preferred provider, states could act as gatekeepers and defund providers for any arbitrary reason. Nathaniel Weixel, The Hill, 2 Apr. 2025 Keep in mind where your preferred providers fall if your plan is tiered. Allie Volpe, Vox, 2 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of preferred provider was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“Preferred provider.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/preferred%20provider. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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