Which of the following private insurance carriers has a contractual relationship with doctors and hospitals?

The correct choice pertains to private insurance carriers that established contractual relationships with healthcare providers, such as doctors and hospitals. Medicare, while a government program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older, does involve agreements with providers to deliver services to beneficiaries. These contracts stipulate terms for reimbursement and outline the services covered, allowing Medicare to negotiate rates with providers, which facilitates access to care for its members.

Employer-administered plans are typically structured by the employer and might not necessarily have a direct contractual relationship with healthcare providers; rather, they may use various networks or managed care arrangements. Blue Cross/Blue Shield exists in a range of models depending on the region, but it is traditionally a blue cross/blue shield system that varies in structure. Medicaid operates primarily as a public assistance program for low-income individuals, and while it may have contracts with providers, it is essentially a government-funded entity rather than a private carrier. Thus, the nuances of each program highlight why Medicare is the best answer in the context of private insurance carriers.