Which professional is typically responsible for issuing referrals for an HMO patient?

• A. Primary care provider
• B. Specialist
• C. Physician assistant
• D. Nurse practitioner

Answer: (A)

In an HMO, care is coordinated through a primary care provider who acts as the gatekeeper. This clinician assesses health needs, determines whether specialist input is required, and issues the referral to an approved specialist or service. The primary care provider ensures referrals are appropriate and that care stays within the network. While physician assistants or nurse practitioners can serve as the primary care provider in some practices, the usual role recognized for issuing referrals is the primary care provider. Specialists don’t typically initiate referrals for an HMO patient; they usually receive referrals from the primary care provider.