In which form of healthcare organization are patients enrolled for a fixed payment?

In a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), patients are enrolled for a fixed payment, often referred to as a capitation fee. This means that members pay a predetermined amount on a regular basis (usually monthly) to receive a set range of health services. The HMO then covers the costs of care provided to the members, thereby incentivizing both preventive care and the management of overall healthcare costs.

This model encourages patients to utilize designated healthcare providers and services offered by the HMO, helping to streamline care and reduce unnecessary expenditures. Patients typically have lower out-of-pocket costs when accessing services within the HMO network, making it an attractive option for those seeking predictable healthcare expenses. The structure of HMO also fosters an emphasis on wellness and preventive services to keep healthcare costs manageable.

The other options represent different healthcare delivery models that do not primarily operate on a fixed payment system for enrolled patients in the same way. For example, Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) allow patients greater flexibility in choosing providers but do not typically operate on a fixed payment model. Similarly, Independent Practice Associations (IPAs) and Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) involve more complex arrangements that may include fee-for-service structures or shared savings models instead of a straightforward fixed payment approach.