Acronyms
PCP
Primary Care Physician
A document sent by an insurer to a patient explaining what was covered for a medical service.
Explanation of Benefits
Type of insurance that would help to cover the cost of glasses and/or contacts.
Vision insurance
Any person (doctor, nurse or dentist) or institution (hospital or clinic) that provides medical care.
Provider
HMO
Health Maintenance Insurance
The amount that the insured person must pay out of pocket for services at a doctor's office.
Co-payment
Insurance that would cover fillings, teeth cleaning and/or braces.
Dental insurance
A policy that guarantees you can receive health insurance, as long as you pay the premium. It is also called a guaranteed renewable policy.
Non-cancellable policy
PPO
Preferred provider Organization
The amount a person must pay for health expenses before the insurance covers the cost.
Deductible
Insurance to help covers expenses should you not be able to work due to an injury.
Disability insurance
Usually your first contact for health care, this is often a family physician. They monitor your health and diagnoses and treats most health problems, and refers
you to specialists if another level of care is needed.
Primary Care Physician
EOB
Explanation of Benefits
A health problem that existed before the date your health insurance became effective.
Pre-existing condition
Insurance that provides financial payment to a beneficiary in the event of death.
Life Insurance
The amount you are required to pay for medical care in a fee-for-service plan after you have met your deductible. This rate is usually expressed as a percentage. For example, if the health insurance company pays 80% of the claim, you pay 20%.
Co-insurance
VA
Veteran's Administration
The amount the policy-holder or his/her employer pays to the health plan each month to purchase health coverage.
Premium
Form of insurance that provides payment for medical care when a person in injured on the job.
Worker's Compensation
The most money you will be required to pay per year for deductibles and co-insurance. It is a stated dollar amount set by the health insurance company, in addition to regular premiums.
Maximum out-of-pocket expenses