HDHP PPO

Open Enrollment is November 2nd – 13th, 2026
Questions? Starting November 1st, you can call (888) 274-7850, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.,
Monday through Friday. Let them know you’re a PACE employee.

HDHP PPO basics

Understanding a High-Deductible Health Plan

A high-deductible health plan (HDHP) typically has a higher deductible than a traditional health plan but often comes with a lower monthly premium. Some HDHPs can also be paired with a health savings account (HSA), which can help you save and pay for eligible health care expenses with before tax dollars.

How a high-deductible health plan is different than a Traditional plan

With high deductible health plans:

Monthly premium, what you pay each month, is often lower.
You pay more up front for healthcare services, including Rx, before your plan begins paying its share.
You pay all costs until the deductible is met. These costs include both medical care and prescription drugs.

Traditional plan vs HDHP plan

Traditional Plan	High-Deductible Health Plan
Lower Deductible Each member has capped Deductible and Out of Pocket Max in network Services like office visits, ER/UC, Rx do not apply toward your deductible Preventive services are covered with no cost share Premiums generally higher Cannot use an HSA account	Higher Deductible All members of the family must meet the Family Deductible, Out of Pocket Max is capped per person in network All services apply toward the Deductible until it is met *excluding preventive Preventive services are covered with no cost share Premiums generally lower Can use an HSA account with tax deferred funds

Understanding your costs

An HDHP includes an out-of-pocket maximum, which limits how much you pay for covered health care services during your plan year.

When choosing a plan, consider the monthly premium as well as how much you could pay out of pocket if you need unexpected or ongoing medical care.

Using a Health Savings Account

The HDHP is HSA-eligible meaning you can open a health savings account (HSA) and use pretax dollars for qualified medical expenses. Depending on your employer, you may be able to contribute to your HSA directly from your paycheck. Money in an HSA can be used for eligible expenses such as medical care, prescriptions and other qualified health care costs.

A Health Savings Account is your account even if you leave your employer.
There is not a time limit in which the funds must be used with an HSA, it is not a “use it or lose it” situation.
The contributions remain in the account until you use them, which can be in years to come.

Check your plan and employer information to understand your HSA options and eligibility.

Is a high-deductible health plan right for you?

An HDHP may be a good option depending on your health care needs, expected expenses and financial situation. When comparing plans, consider:

Monthly premiums
Deductibles
Copays and coinsurance
Expected medical and prescription drug needs

Looking at the total potential cost of coverage, not just the monthly premium, can help you choose the plan that best fits your needs.

Estimate Your Health Care Costs

Health Alliance Plan's Health Care Cost Estimator can help you understand potential costs before receiving care. You can search by treatment, browse by medical condition and compare estimated costs among providers.

This can be especially helpful with a high-deductible health plan because you may pay more of the cost of care before meeting your deductible.

Learn more about the Health Care Cost Estimator