Assignment:
In an HMO, the primary care physician acts as the "gatekeeper" to all higher levels of care that the patient may need. In theory, this means that the physician decides what is best for the patient and coordinates his or her care, while at the same times working to control costs and trying to ensure the delivery of care in the most efficient manner possible.
Thinking about this from both a third-party payer's and an administrator's perspectives, answer the following questions:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using the gatekeeper system in terms of progressing through the levels of care?
Please select at least 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages for each group, and provide a rationale for your choices.
Your answer must be typed, double-spaced, Times New Roman font (size 12), one-inch margins on all sides, APA format.