What type of health care MCO plan typically does not pay for out-of-network services or providers?

Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) are designed to provide comprehensive health services to members while encouraging the use of in-network care. One of the fundamental characteristics of HMOs is that they typically do not reimburse for out-of-network services or providers, except in emergencies. This structure is intended to control costs and manage patient care more effectively by requiring members to choose a primary care physician (PCP) who coordinates their health care. Members are expected to seek care within the HMO's network, which often results in lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs for services received.

In contrast, other types of plans like Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) allow for greater flexibility, including out-of-network services, albeit usually at a higher cost. Fee-for-service plans enable patients to see any provider without a referral and pay for services as they receive them, and Point of Service (POS) plans function similarly to PPOs but require a primary care physician for referrals, blending features of both HMO and PPO models.