Which of the following is a key feature of managed care plans?

Managed care plans are designed to provide cost-effective healthcare by utilizing a network of healthcare providers. This network includes hospitals, specialists, and primary care physicians who have agreed to provide services at reduced fees. The cost savings arise from the plan's ability to negotiate lower rates with these providers and manage the care provided to members.

Members of a managed care plan typically receive better coverage and lower costs when they use providers within the network. This arrangement encourages members to seek care from designated providers, helping to control overall healthcare spending while maintaining a certain standard of care. Therefore, the establishment of a network of providers is a fundamental aspect of managed care that distinguishes it from other health insurance models, where members might have more flexibility in choosing providers but at a higher cost.

In contrast, the alternatives provided do not align with the core principles of managed care. For instance, higher premiums indicate a traditional insurance approach that does not emphasize cost control through a provider network. Unlimited access to any healthcare provider and no requirement for referrals suggest a more flexible plan, which is typically characteristic of indemnity plans rather than managed care.