Health coverage that allows the patient to utilize a variety of benefits associated with different level/tiers of coverage. The following is an explanation of the common tiered POS coverage. Tier 1 Level Benefits (HMO Coverage): members are assigned or chose a PCP; the PCP must manage the care. Stanford Health Care must obtain authorization for specialty services. Typically, patients are only responsible for their co-pays. Tier 2 Level Benefits (PPO Coverage): the patient may self-refer to any in-network-contracted provider without obtaining authorization from their PCP but authorization is often required from the insurance company. Patients are responsible for a deductible and a percentage of their medical costs. Tier 3 Level Benefits: coverage for medical care provided to POS members from non-contracted provider. Insurance payment amount is dependent on the benefit offered by the plan. Services may be denied by the insurance company as not covered and the patient is responsible for 100% of all charges. Typically the patient is responsible for a larger share of the charges. Care provided to POS members without the required authorization from their health plan will result in the patient being financially responsible for 100% of the charges.