The primary difference between HMOs and independent practice associations (IPAs) is that under the IPA system:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The primary difference between HMOs and IPAs is how they are financed. Under the IPA system, clients pay on a fee-for-service basis rather than prepaid premiums like in HMOs. This allows physicians to maintain more control over healthcare delivery and eliminates the need for them to join a group practice or HMO. Therefore, option B is the correct answer. The other options are incorrect because nurses receive reimbursement based on the care they provide under any healthcare delivery system, and the number of services provided can still be limited under the IPA system.

The Primary Difference Between HMOs and Independent Practice Associations (IPAs)