Glossary

ID Card

The identification card carried by a subscriber or dependent that provides important information relating to health coverage, such as the plan effective date, co-payments, etc. The card usually lists a toll-free number where patients or health care professionals may call for assistance with benefits. You should copy this phone number in another location in case you misplace your ID card.

Immunization

A medicine given to prevent a disease, such as the flu or measles. Immunizations stimulate the body's immune system to spot invading bacteria and viruses and destroy or disable them.

In Network

Refers to care received from providers who participate in a health benefit plan's provider network, or network of participating physicians, hospitals and health care professionals. It's important to know if your physician is in network, since many health plans provide a higher level of coverage for doctors in their network. Some plans provide coverage only for emergency services received from providers not in their network. Plan materials on the plan website would probably provide a list of providers in their network.

Incentive

Any factor (financial or not) that motivates a person to take a particular action. For example, some employers reward employees for taking positive health actions, like quitting smoking. Rewards can include cash, prizes or a lowered cost for health care.

Indemnity Plan

Often called "traditional plans." Individuals with an indemnity plan receive the same level of benefits for any provider from whom they seek care (the plan has no network). Indemnity plans often incorporate deductibles and co-insurance, and certain benefit maximums, including lifetime maximums, may also apply to the plan.

Independent Practice Associations (IPA)

A group of physicians or other providers that contract with a health benefits plan to provide services. Often you select a physician in an independent practice association as your primary care physician (PCP). You will be referred to specialists and hospitals affiliated with the IPA, unless your medical needs extend beyond the capability of these providers.

Individual Policy

Health coverage for individuals, and their families, who are either self-employed, or who are not offered health coverage through an employer or other group plan.

Individual Retirement Account (IRA)

A tax-advantaged investment account in which a person may set aside income up to a specified amount each year and usually deduct the contributions from taxable income. Contributions and interest are tax-deferred until retirement.

Inpatient care

Health care service provided after a patient is admitted to the hospital.

Investigational Services

See Experimental Services or Procedures