Managed care provides reasonably priced health care for consumers and providers who agree to certain conditions. Some examples of managed care include exclusive provider organizations (EPO), health maintenance organizations (HMO), point- of- service plans (POS), and preferred provider organizations (PPO). Each type has their own distinctive features and characteristics

Imagine you are helping a friend or family member choose the best insurance plan for their situation. The options they have to choose from are a PPO, HMO, or EPO. This person already has a primary care provider that they really like and they do not want to switch. If they choose an HMO, they would only be able to go to those providers that are employees of the HMO. Their current physician is not part of that program.

• Discuss which plan would be best for this person and why this plan would be the best fit.
• Which plan would most definitely not be a good fit for them and why?