What is a defining characteristic of Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs)?

A defining characteristic of Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) is their emphasis on preventive care. HMOs are designed to promote overall health and prevent illness rather than just treating conditions as they arise. This proactive focus helps to reduce healthcare costs and improve health outcomes for members.

In an HMO, members typically receive a range of preventive services—such as routine check-ups, immunizations, and screenings—at little to no additional cost. By prioritizing preventive care, HMOs aim to catch health issues early when they are often more easily managed and treated, leading to better health management and ultimately lower healthcare expenses for both the organization and members.

The structure of HMOs further supports this preventive approach, as members are encouraged to establish a relationship with a primary care physician who coordinates their care and ensures all preventive services are utilized appropriately. This model stands in contrast to other insurance structures, which may not emphasize preventive health to the same degree.