Compare access to providers under HMO vs PPO plans.

• A. HMO typically requires in-network providers and a PCP/referrals; PPO offers broader provider access with usually no referrals.
• B. HMO offers broader provider access with no referrals; PPO requires PCP.
• C. HMO allows out-of-network without referrals; PPO restricts to network only.
• D. HMO and PPO have identical provider access, with no differences.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how provider access and referral requirements differ between HMO and PPO plans. HMOs typically require you to use in-network providers and to coordinate care through a primary care physician; to see specialists, you generally need a referral. This structure keeps costs down by limiting networks and centralizing care. PPOs, on the other hand, offer broader access to providers and usually don’t require referrals to see specialists, though you pay less if you stay in-network. Out-of-network care is allowed with higher costs, but you still have the option if you choose.

So the correct statement aligns with that difference: HMOs focus on in-network access and PCP-driven referrals, while PPOs provide broader access with usually no referrals. The other descriptions don’t fit the typical arrangement—HMOs aren’t known for broader access with no referrals, and PPOs aren’t restricted to in-network only by default.