August 9, 2010
Medicare Advantage HMO Plans
What is an HMO Plan?
The word "HMO" means "Health Maintenance Organization." A Medicare Advantage plan that provides its benefits through an HMO uses a network of providers to deliver the plan's health care services to people enrolled in the plan.
As a member of an HMO, you will be required to choose a primary care physician ("PCP") within the network who will provide most of your health care and refer you to HMO specialists as needed. Health care services obtained outside of the HMO are typically not covered, though there may be exceptions in case of an emergency.
Questions to Ask Before Joining an HMO Plan
Since an HMO requires you to use health care providers within its network, alongside your evaluation of plan coverage, you should also ask the following questions before enrolling in an HMO:
- Is my current doctor within the HMO's network of health care providers?
- Are the health care facilities belonging to the HMO network located near me?
- Are there any customer satisfaction surveys for the HMO I can review?
