Health Management Organization

HMOs offer many benefits to members. For example, HMOs do not require claim forms for office visits or hospital stays. HMO members simply present a card at the doctor's office or hospital. On the downside, as an HMO member, you may have to wait longer for an appointment than you would with other health care plans. An HMO can deliver care directly through its own staff of health care providers or contract out services to affiliated health care providers. HMOs are known to limit choice because you either are assigned or you choose one doctor to serve as your primary care doctor. This primary care doctor monitors your health and provides most of your medical care, referring you to specialists and other health care professionals as needed. Before choosing an HMO, it is a good idea to talk to people you know who are enrolled in it. Ask them how they like the services and care given.