What does 'managed care' refer to in healthcare insurance?

Managed care refers to a healthcare delivery system that aims to manage various aspects of healthcare, including costs, utilization of services, and the quality of care provided to patients. The core philosophy of managed care is to coordinate patient care efficiently to maintain high standards of care while simultaneously controlling expenses. This system typically includes a network of healthcare providers that agree to offer services at reduced rates, ultimately promoting preventive care and efficient management of chronic conditions.

In this model, the focus is on providing comprehensive healthcare services through a structured plan that integrates different components of patient care. This approach helps to minimize unnecessary services and ensures that patients receive appropriate and timely medical interventions, which can lead to better health outcomes.

The other options do not encapsulate the definition of managed care accurately. For instance, increasing healthcare costs or focusing solely on emergency services or preventive care does not align with managed care's goal of overall efficiency and quality in healthcare delivery.