How is a health maintenance organization different from conventional health insurance?

A Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) differs from conventional health insurance primarily in its structure and approach to healthcare delivery. HMOs require members to select a primary care physician and obtain referrals for specialists, promoting coordinated care and preventive services. In contrast, conventional health insurance typically offers a wider choice of providers and fewer restrictions on specialist visits, but it may come with higher out-of-pocket costs. Overall, HMOs focus on cost control and preventive care, while conventional insurance often prioritizes flexibility in provider choice.