An HMO is characterized by

An HMO is characterized by

• A. Unlimited sessions and full confidentiality
• B. Limiting number of sessions and possible preference for drug treatment over therapy
• C. No referrals to specialists
• D. Exclusive use of online therapy

Answer: (B)

HMOs manage mental health care with cost containment and gatekeeping, so access is controlled rather than open-ended. They usually cap how many therapy sessions a patient can receive and require a referral or preauthorization to see a specialist. They also tend to favor more cost-effective options, which can mean pharmacotherapy is used or prioritized over longer, ongoing psychotherapy when appropriate. Unlimited sessions and full confidentiality without limits aren’t how an HMO operates, and access to care isn’t restricted to online therapy only; referrals to specialists are typically needed rather than avoided.

HMOs manage mental health care with cost containment and gatekeeping, so access is controlled rather than open-ended. They usually cap how many therapy sessions a patient can receive and require a referral or preauthorization to see a specialist. They also tend to favor more cost-effective options, which can mean pharmacotherapy is used or prioritized over longer, ongoing psychotherapy when appropriate. Unlimited sessions and full confidentiality without limits aren’t how an HMO operates, and access to care isn’t restricted to online therapy only; referrals to specialists are typically needed rather than avoided.