Healthcare Systems vocab

Agency for healthcare research and quality (AHRQ)

A U.S government agency responsible for improving the quality, safety, and efficiency of healthcare by conducting research and providing resources to healthcare providers and patients

Assisted living facilities

Residential facilities that offer support with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management, while promoting independence for elderly or disabled individuals who do not require full time medial care

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

A federal agency under the U.S. department of health and human services that focuses on protecting public health by controlling and preventing diseases, injuries, and disabilities

Clinics

Healthcare facilities that provide outpatient medical services, including routine checkups, preventative care, and minor treatments, often focusing on specific specialties or patient needs

Dental offices

Medical facilities where dental professionals provide services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and other oral health treatments

Emergency care services

Healthcare services that offer immediate treatment for acute injuries or illness. including life-threatening situations. These are often provided in emergency rooms, urgent care centers, and by emergency medical services (EMS) teams

Food and drug administration (FDA)

A federal agency responsible for protecting public health by regulating food, drugs, medical devices, and other health related products, ensuring they are safe and effective for public use

Genetic counseling centers

Facilities where individuals or families can receive advice and testing related to genetic disorders or inherited conditions, including counseling on the risks and implications of genetic health issues

Health insurance plans

Plans that provide financial coverage for healthcare services, helping individuals pay for medical costs. Health insurance plans vary widely in terms of coverage, premiums  and benefits

Health insurance portability and accountability act

A U.S. law that protects patient privacy and ensures the security of medical information while allowing for the appropriate exchange of healthcare data for treatment and biling

Health maintenance organization

A type of health insurance plan that provides care through a network for their care to be covered

Home healthcare

Healthcare services provided in a patients home, often for individuals recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions, or needing assistance with daily living activities

Hospitals

Large healthcare facilities that provide a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, inpatient care, diagnostics, and specialty care for various medical conditions

Independent living facilities

Housing communities designed for older adults who are capable of living independently but prefer a community environment with available amenities, social activities, and basic support services

Industrial healthcare centers

Facilities locate within companies or industrial sites that provide healthcare services to employees, often focusing on occupational health, injury prevention, and emergency care specific to workplace hazards

Long term care facilities

Facilities that provide extended medical and personal care services to individuals who have chronic illnesses or disabilities, including nursing homes and rehabilitation centers

Managed care

A healthcare delivery system that aims to manage the quality, cost, and access to healthcare services. Manages care often involves networks of providers and focuses on preventative care and cost effective treatment

Medicaid

A government funded health insurance program that provides medical assistance to low income individuals and families, jointly funded by the federal government and individual states, with specific eligibility and coverage criteria set by each state

Medicare

A federal health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, as well as certain younger individuals with disabilities. Medicare covers hospital stays, medical services, and prescription drugs

Medigap

Private health insurance that supplements Medicare by covering out of pocket costs not covered by Medicare, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles

Mental health services

Healthcare services that focus on diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals with mental health conditions, including counseling, therapy, psychiatric care, and crisis intervention

National institutes of health (NIH)

The primary agency of the U.S. government responsible for biomedical and public health research, supporting scientific studies to improve health and understand diseases

Occupational safety and health administration (OSHA)

A federal agency under the U.S. department of labor responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions by setting and enforcing workplace safety standards

Optical center

A healthcare facility that provides vision care services, including eye exams, prescription eyewear, and contact lenses. Some centers also offer treatments for eye conditions and minor procedures

Proffered provider organization (PPO)

A type of health insurance plan that offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers. Patients can see providers outside the PPO network, though it typically costs more than seeing in network providers

School health services

Healthcare services provided within a school setting, focusing on the health and well being of students. Services may include screenings, vaccinations, first aid, and health education

Tricare

A healthcare program provided by the U.S. department of defense for active duty and retired military personnel and their families. Tricare covers a variety of medical services and is available worldwide

Workers compensation

A form of insurance that provides wage replacement and medical benefits to employees injured on the job, ensuring financial support while they recover. Workers compensation Leo protects employers from lawsuits by employees

World Health Organization (WHO)

An international public health agency of the United Nations responsible for global health issues, including disease prevention, health promotion, and responding to health emergencies worldwide. WHO sets international health standards and provides guidance on healthcare policies