What is the main role of health maintenance organizations (HMOs) in patient care?

Health maintenance organizations (HMOs) play a significant role in patient care by exercising control over patient choices and treatment options. HMOs are designed to deliver health care services in a managed, cost-effective manner and typically require patients to select a primary care physician. This primary care physician coordinates the patient's care and directs any necessary referrals to specialists, ensuring that all care is managed within the network of providers.

By having this structure, HMOs can promote preventive care and manage treatment plans effectively, which can lead to overall improved health outcomes for their members. The model encourages careful selection of services, which helps to keep costs down for both the organization and the patients. Essentially, the controlled approach that HMOs take ensures that care is delivered in a systematic way, focusing on the quality and cost efficiency of services provided to members.