Short Answer 
The HMO Act of 1973 promotes cost-efficient healthcare through preventive care, aiming to reduce future expensive treatments. Additionally, Health IT Certification modernizes healthcare management by improving efficiency with electronic medical records, ultimately lowering costs. However, some initiatives, like online scheduling and the Cures Act, focus on convenience or drug approval rather than directly reducing healthcare expenses.
Step 1: Understand the Purpose of the HMO Act
The Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Act of 1973 was introduced to promote cost-efficient healthcare by encouraging organizations that focus on preventative care. By prioritizing preventive services, the HMO Act aims to reduce the necessity for expensive treatments in the future. This act stands out as a significant legislative measure to manage and lower healthcare expenses effectively.
Step 2: Explore Health IT Certification
Health Information Technology (Health IT) Certification plays a critical role in modernizing healthcare management. This initiative promotes the use of electronic medical records (EMRs) and facilitates better communication among healthcare providers. By streamlining operations and improving efficiency, Health IT can lead to lower overall healthcare costs while ensuring patient information is readily accessible and secure.
Step 3: Recognize Limitations of Other Initiatives
In contrast, some other initiatives do not primarily target cost reduction. For example, online scheduling enhances patient convenience but doesn’t directly impact costs, while the Cures Act mainly focuses on accelerating drug approvals and increasing funding for specific health issues rather than reducing healthcare expenses. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify which initiatives actively contribute to cost reduction.