What does a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) provide?

A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) is designed to provide a comprehensive range of healthcare services through a network of doctors, hospitals, and other providers. The core principle of an HMO is to offer coordinated care, which emphasizes preventive services and overall health management. Members typically select a primary care physician (PCP) who oversees their healthcare and coordinates referrals to specialists when necessary. This structured approach helps manage costs while ensuring that members receive necessary care within the network, streamlining access to a variety of medical services.

In contrast, the other options do not encompass the full scope of what an HMO provides. Emergency services are part of HMO coverage, but they do not encapsulate the range of services offered. Unlimited specialist visits are generally restricted within an HMO plan since access to specialists usually requires a referral from a PCP. Discounted drugs, while often a component of HMO plans, highlight only a small part of the overall services provided and do not reflect the focus on coordinated healthcare. Therefore, the correct choice clearly illustrates the comprehensive service model characteristic of HMOs.