held an additional $82.8 million in unexercised stock options. The 25 highest paid HMO executives among these companies had an average compensation of over $6.2 million, and average unexercised stock options of $13.5 million. (Families USA Study) Ron Pollack, executive director of Families USA, summed it up very well, when HMO executives make many millions of dollars in compensation, that may be okay. But when those same HMO executives complain about pennies being spent for basic consumer rights, that is pure hypocrisy. Managed care companies are considerably more cost conscious when they oppose the establishment of consumer rights than when they approve compensation for their top executives. (Slass)How can potential HMO enrollees protect themselves from being a worst-case scenario? Educating oneself on the proposed HMO is the best strategy. In other words, leave nothing to chance. Know exactly what you're getting into. If an employee has no input as to which HMO he may join, he or she can still question the HMO representative. Some of the most important questions include: How long has the HMO been in operation? Usually, a gauge of two to three years may be used (Luciano PG). If the HMO has operated for less than three years, what experience does it bring to its new operation (Luciano PG)? What is the working relationship between the HMO and the doctors and hospitals with whom it has established contracts? Ask the HMO representative to supply a list of telephone numbers to assess if the working relationship has been a good one, or has been problematic (Luciano PG). Although HMOs are forbidden to divulge names of their members, if you know of anyone currently enrolled in the proposed HMO plan, ask the person to evaluate the HMO's coverage and general satisfaction (Luciano PG).The unfortunate reality is, the problem with HMOs is probably going to get worse before it gets better. However, like it or not, HMOs are a permanent f...
