Released: January 17, 2006

Help Desk FAQ

What are HMOs?

HMOs (health maintenance organizations) are a form of managed care, a system of health care insurance designed to keep medical costs in check by coordinating covered individuals’ medical needs. HMOs provide a full range of health care coverage through networks of doctors, clinics and hospitals. These health care providers work together to coordinate patient care and contain costs. The HMO uses a specific list of physicians and facilities, and has a fixed fee structure for all services.