Final answer:
A primary care physician in an HMO is often referred to as a 'Gatekeeper,' responsible for coordinating patient care and managing referrals to specialists.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gatekeeper is another name for a primary care physician in an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization). The term refers to the role of the primary care physician as the initial point of contact for patients within the HMO network. These professionals are responsible for providing comprehensive care and making decisions about the necessity of referrals to specialists.
As gatekeepers, they work to manage and coordinate all aspects of patient care, ensuring that it's efficient and effective. They also serve to control costs and resources within the HMO by preventing unnecessary procedures or specialist visits.