With narrow or select network plans, which of the following is true regarding specialists?

The correct answer highlights the structure of narrow or select network plans, specifically regarding how specialists are accessed by members. In these types of health plans, the ability to see specialists is typically restricted to those who are contracted within the same Independent Practice Association (IPA) or medical group as the member's primary care physician (PCP). This design is meant to streamline care and keep costs manageable by encouraging members to use a defined set of providers who have agreed to specific terms with the health plan.

This arrangement supports coordinated care, as specialists involved in the same network are more likely to communicate effectively and share patient information. Additionally, the limitation to these network specialists helps the insurance provider manage costs, ensuring that care is delivered efficiently and within the established parameters of the plan.

While access to specialists generally requires staying within the network, members might not have the flexibility to choose any specialist they wish, which is why the other options do not accurately reflect how narrow or select network plans function. Options about freely choosing specialists and including out-of-network specialists do not align with the primary goal of these plans, which is to maintain a contained and controlled provider network.