Which statement best summarizes the goal of managed care?

The goal of managed care is primarily centered around managing both the quality and cost of healthcare services effectively. Managed care aims to provide coordinated and efficient healthcare delivery that prioritizes patient outcomes while also considering the financial implications of care.

This approach typically involves implementing strategies to ensure that patients receive appropriate care while also managing the use of resources to avoid unnecessary services that could drive up costs. Managed care organizations often emphasize preventive care and wellness, which contribute to overall patient health and can reduce long-term healthcare expenses.

In contrast, the other statements do not capture the essence of managed care. Providing unlimited healthcare services without regard for cost would not be sustainable and goes against the principles of managed care. Encouraging patients to seek specialists for all health concerns can lead to overutilization and increased costs, rather than managing them effectively. Lastly, while managed care may involve networks of specific providers, the core philosophy is not about restriction itself but rather ensuring proper management of care to improve quality while controlling expenses.