What is a key feature of an HMO regarding healthcare services?

A key feature of a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) is that services are centered around local medical facilities. This means that HMO plans typically encourage members to receive care from a network of doctors, hospitals, and specialists that are contracted with the HMO. By focusing on local medical facilities, HMOs can promote coordinated care, preventative services, and overall management of patient health, as the providers frequently work together to ensure continuity of care for the patients within their network.

Additionally, HMO members generally must choose a primary care physician (PCP) who will guide their healthcare and refer them to specialists within the network when necessary. This aspect of HMO structure fosters a more integrated approach to healthcare, emphasizing preventive services to keep members healthy rather than simply treating illnesses.

The other options reflect characteristics that do not align with the basic structure of HMOs. For instance, seeking services outside the network is typically discouraged and may result in higher costs. The requirement for referrals from a primary care physician to see specialists is also a hallmark feature of HMOs, contrary to the idea that no referral is needed. Furthermore, while HMOs do cover emergency services, their primary focus is on a more comprehensive range of healthcare services provided through their local networks.