Which of the following is a key characteristic of managed care insurance?

Fixed co-pays for services are a key characteristic of managed care insurance. This type of insurance often employs a cost-control mechanism where insured individuals pay a predetermined amount for medical services at the time of receiving care. This co-payment structure helps to manage the costs associated with healthcare services, promoting the use of network providers while also minimizing out-of-pocket expenses.

Unlike traditional insurance models, managed care plans aim to provide predictable costs to patients and facilitate access to care through established networks of providers. This encourages members to use healthcare services more efficiently. Fixed co-pays are also common in managed care arrangements because they simplify billing and provide a clear understanding of costs upfront for both providers and patients.

While unlimited provider access, higher premiums with lower deductibles, and global coverage may appeal to some insurance models, they do not align with the fundamental principles of managed care, which focus on coordinated care within a network of providers along with cost containment strategies.