Managed care

Posted by carrie on July 08, 1999 at 15:12:00
Does anyone have any information regarding the pros and cons of managed care, namely HMO's in dealing with mental health?
Is treatment appropriate and timely?  Are services easily available to patients?  Are referrals to specialists made easily or do case managers tend to make it a run around?
Any firsthand information would be greatly appreciated
carrie

Posted by HFHS.MD-AJ on July 11, 1999 at 15:18:36
Carrie,
Managed care is a system by which health care insurers and health care providers work together to ensure the best possible value in health care. This means the highest quality of care at a reasonable cost. Managed care also implies that health care treats individuals but also looks at populations. By doing so, preventive medicine programs are established and a broad continuum of care is established.
Health maintenance organizations (HMOs) are an example of a managed care system. HMOs should provide appropriate, timely, and easily accessible services to patients. I would look at the specific services offered by each program to determine which one is best for you.
This response is provided for general information only. Always consult your physician for any health concerns.
Keywords: managed care, HMO