What does an HMO typically require for specialist visits?

An HMO, or Health Maintenance Organization, typically requires a referral from a primary care physician for specialist visits. This system is designed to manage costs and ensure that members receive appropriate care. By requiring a referral, the primary care physician can assess the patient’s condition and determine whether seeing a specialist is necessary. This not only helps streamline the patient's healthcare experience but also maintains oversight of the patient’s overall health management.

In contrast to this requirement, other options such as direct access without restrictions or higher co-pays would generally characterize different health plan structures, like PPOs (Preferred Provider Organizations), where members have more flexibility in choosing specialists. Pre-approval for all services might apply in managed care plans but is not specific to the typical operational model of an HMO when it comes to specialist visits. The referral requirement is a hallmark of HMOs and reflects their emphasis on coordinated care.