Final answer:
The primary advantage of the managed care model, including HMOs, is comprehensive and coordinated care that aims to balance quality, access, and cost in health care.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the primary advantages of the managed care model, which includes health maintenance organizations (HMOs), is comprehensive and coordinated care. This approach to health care provides structured and integrated care by focusing on both prevention and treatment. Managed care organizations usually operate under a fixed budget and prioritize resource allocation among patients, which can lead to more efficient care overall. By organizing health services in this manner, managed care attempts to optimize the balance between quality, access, and cost. However, it also comes with challenges such as potential limited access to certain providers or procedures, which can be a downside for patients who require more individualized or specialized care.