Released: January 28, 2019

Help Desk FAQ

What is an HMO and how does it work?

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 services through a network of doctors, specialists, clinics and hospitals that operate under a fixed fee structure for all services.

As an HMO member, your health care will be coordinated by your primary care physician. When other health care providers are needed, you will, in most cases, be required to use providers that are part of your HMO's network. As an HMO member, it's important that you understand your plan so that you understand your health care provider options and cut your out-of-pocket medical expenses.