In general, individual health plans are offered as PPOs, such as Blue Cross of California. If you switch to a Health Maintenance Organization or HMO, you might have fewer doctors to choose from. They won't necessarily give you the option to go to any doctor you wish, but HMOs usually charge less than PPOs. Instead of switching to another one, try to review the health insurance plans of Blue Cross of California for small businesses. This is under their Employee Elect portfolio. Their plans for small businesses provide employers the option to buy policies that offer employees cafeteria style fleibility with a set monthly premium. Your employees can also choose from a selection of Blue Cross of California's offerings  If the plan they choose costs more than the monthly premium that has been set, then you can deduct the remaining amount from the employee's salary. If you really want to switch to another company, try to consult with an independent agent in your area. They can provide you with several health policies, and eplain to you the differences among them, including the plans of Blue Cross of California for small businesses. Since they know the market better, they can guide you in choosing the right plan for your business according to your situation and budget. The monthly plan premiums are usually about the same, regardless of whether you inquire about health plans directly from the insurance company or from your local agent. — May 22, 2009 @ 10:59 am