Which statement regarding a health maintenance organization is TRUE?

A health maintenance organization (HMO) is designed to provide a comprehensive range of health services to its members, typically for a fixed premium. This structure emphasizes preventive care and wellness, which are fundamental principles of HMOs. By paying a set fee, members gain access to various medical services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, and other preventive measures that help manage health and reduce the need for more extensive medical interventions later on.

This model encourages members to seek regular care, ultimately promoting better overall health outcomes. Additionally, an HMO often requires members to select a primary care physician who coordinates their care, ensuring that the health services provided align with the overall focus on prevention and health maintenance.

The other options mention aspects that are not characteristic of HMOs. For instance, HMOs are well-known for offering preventive care, do not limit service coverage solely to emergencies, and require member enrollment to establish access to their network of services.