I am in the process of choosing a health insurance plan at work.

These two options are what I am considering:
Anthem POS High Option - $42.00
Aetna HMO - Ohio(EPO) - $36.00

The HMO seems to have better benefits (100% coverage after $250 copayment vs 90$ coverage after $250 copayment for hospital coverage, 100% coinsurance percentage vs 90%, both have no annual deductible for in-network). The HMO option also has no annual out of pocket maximum while the POS high potion has a $1200 annual OOP maximum.

Why is it that the HMO seems to have better options but costs less than the POS high option?

Health insurance is tricky...trust me I verify benefits for a living! The bad thing about the HMO is you have to have a referral for every single thing except well woman/man visits. And I mean everything, if no you will get billed for it and it will be a large bill. But with the POS once you meet that 1200 OOP cost it will then pay at 100% and you dont need a referral. (Most of the time you'll only need a referral to a certain facility not for specific tests, appts etc.) A good way to go is to pick one this year and if you dont like it try the other one next year. Each one has good and bad sides so its your preference.

Plans will vary geatly based on the options and how many providers are in the network. Some have specific extra costs for out-of-network doctor coverage as well as referrals.

Sometimes, an employer will cover a portion of a healthcare plan and make it available to employees at a discount.

You should evaluate your overall health and decide which plan is right for your particular situation.