In a staff-based HMO, which statement is true?

• A. Doctors are independent contractors.
• B. Doctors are employees.
• C. Doctors are volunteers.
• D. Doctors are consultants.

Answer: (B)

In a staff-based HMO, doctors are employees of the organization, hired directly and paid through the HMO’s payroll. The HMO controls scheduling, patient assignments, and practice standards, and typically provides benefits and malpractice coverage as part of the employment arrangement. This contrasts with independent contractors, who bill for services and aren’t on the HMO’s payroll, and with volunteers or consultants who aren’t part of the regular staff.