Illinois Health Insurance Practice Exam

The correct answer is that private health insurance companies have the fewest restrictions regarding where the insured can go for service. This is primarily because private insurers typically offer a wider range of options for providers, particularly in plans like preferred provider organizations (PPOs) and indemnity plans. These types of plans allow members to visit any healthcare provider they choose, although staying within the network may result in lower out-of-pocket costs.

In contrast, other types of health insurance, such as health maintenance organizations (HMOs), impose more restrictions by requiring members to select a primary care physician and obtain referrals to see specialists. This creates a more limited network of providers and services compared to the flexibility offered by many private insurance plans. Thus, the fewer restrictions of private health insurance companies enable insured individuals to access a broader array of services and providers in comparison to more restricted models.