Which term refers to a physician central to a patient's care in managed care plans?

The term that refers to a physician central to a patient's care in managed care plans is the Primary Care Physician. This role is pivotal in the healthcare system, as the primary care physician acts as the first point of contact for patients, managing their overall health and coordinating care across various specialties.

In managed care plans, the primary care physician is responsible for conducting routine check-ups, addressing a wide range of health concerns, and providing preventative care. They also facilitate referrals to other specialists when necessary, ensuring that the patient's care is cohesive and comprehensive. This central role promotes continuity of care, as patients often build a long-term relationship with their primary care physician who understands both their medical history and personal health goals.

While referral physicians and attending physicians play important roles, they do not define the central figure of patient care in the same way the primary care physician does within managed care frameworks. Specialized care physicians focus on specific areas of medicine and typically come into play after referrals from the primary care physician. Thus, the primary care physician is distinctly identified for overseeing the broad spectrum of a patient's healthcare needs, making it the correct term in this context.