What is an HMO?

An HMO, or Health Maintenance Organization, is a type of managed care organization that provides health insurance coverage for a broader range of medical services to its members. The primary feature of an HMO is that it encourages preventive care and wellness strategies while requiring members to use a network of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. In an HMO, members typically select a primary care physician (PCP) who coordinates their healthcare and refers them to specialists as needed. This model aims to promote healthcare efficiency and cost-effectiveness, making it an attractive option for many individuals seeking comprehensive coverage.

Understanding the context of other options highlights why they do not fit the definition of an HMO. A type of medical procedure refers to individual actions taken in medical treatment, while a specific medication category denotes classifications of drugs based on their uses or properties. A type of patient care plan suggests a structured approach to managing individual patient care but does not encompass the organizational framework and preventive focus that characterize an HMO.