Allied Health Vocab Ch. 8 & 9

doctor of medicine

A physician who holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, which qualifies them to diagnose and treat medical conditions, prescribe medications, and perform surgeries.

doctor of osteopathic medicine

A physician who holds a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree, emphasizing a holistic approach to patient care and incorporating osteopathic manipulative treatment.

allopathic approach

A method of treating disease that focuses on the use of drugs, surgery, and other interventions to eliminate or control symptoms and conditions, often contrasting with alternative healing practices.

exercise physiologist

A healthcare professional specializing in exercise prescription to improve physical fitness, manage chronic diseases, and enhance overall health.

physician assistant

A healthcare professional who practices medicine under the supervision of a physician. They are trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services.

recreational therapist

A healthcare professional who uses recreational activities as a form of therapy to improve cognitive, physical, social, and emotional functioning in patients.

psychiatric technicians and aides

Healthcare professionals who assist in the care and treatment of individuals with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities, providing support in daily living and therapeutic activities.

pharmacist

A healthcare professional who is responsible for dispensing medications, providing drug information, and ensuring the safe use of pharmaceuticals.

patient navigator

A professional who helps patients navigate the healthcare system by providing guidance, resources, and support throughout their treatment journey.

board certification

A professional credential reaffirming that a physician possesses the necessary knowledge and skills in their specialty.

reinsurance

A practice where insurers transfer portions of their risk portfolios to other insurers to reduce the likelihood of paying a large obligation resulting from an insurance claim.

flexible spending accounts (FSAs)

A practice where insurers transfer portions of their risk portfolios to other insurers to reduce the likelihood of paying a large obligation resulting from an insurance claim.

prospective reimbursement

Payment method where insurers provide payments to providers based on predetermined rates before services are delivered.

diagnosis-related group (DRG)

A system for classifying hospital cases into groups, used for Medicare reimbursement based on patient diagnosis.

preferred provider organizations

a type of health insurance plan that offers a network of contracted providers, allowing members to receive care at reduced costs while retaining flexibility to see out-of-network providers for higher fees.

health maintenance organizations

managed care health insurance plans that provide comprehensive medical services through a network of contracted providers for a fixed, prepaid fee.

medicare deemed status

allows accredited healthcare organizations to bypass the standard CMS survey process, confirming they meet Medicare and Medicaid certification requirements.

cost sharing

the practice of distributing the costs of a project, service, or initiative among multiple parties according to an agreed-upon arrangement.

entitlement program

government initiatives that guarantee benefits to individuals who meet legally defined eligibility criteria, providing financial support or services as a legal right.