What is the primary function of a Managed Care Organization (MCO)?

The primary function of a Managed Care Organization (MCO) is to provide medical services. MCOs are structured to manage the quality and cost of healthcare delivery through a network of providers. They offer a range of health benefits to members while ensuring that healthcare services are delivered efficiently and effectively. By coordinating care and encouraging preventive services, MCOs aim to improve health outcomes and control expenses for both the organization and its members.

In this context, the other options serve different purposes that are not the main focus of MCOs. Conducting medical research is typically the domain of academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies rather than a core function of MCOs. Training medical staff is important but often falls under the purview of educational organizations or healthcare facilities. Allocating health insurance funds involves the financial management side of healthcare but does not encapsulate the direct service provision role that MCOs focus on.