1. See anteroposterior (AP). 2. HCPCS Level II modifier that may be used with CPT or HCPCS Level II codes indicating there was no determination of refractive state during an eye examination. Use of this modifier does not affect payment.
Insurance Encyclopedia
APF Exemptions
See: Authorised Professional Firm Exemptions.
Apparent authority
The perceived ability of an agent to bind an insurance contract to an insurance company. If an agent or agency holds themselves out as representing a particular company it is reasonable for the public to assume that such authority is established contractually, even if it is not.
Appeal
1. Request for a review of an insurance claim that has been underpaid or denied by an insurance company to receive additional payment. Such requests are made to the health plan by the patient who is represented by the physician or provider who submitted the original insurance claim. Appeals to self-insured plans are submitted to the employer or U.S. Department of Labor. In some cases, an appeal may be submitted to the Department of Insurance of the state where the plan is located. 2. Redetermination process whereby the provider and/or beneficiary (or representative) exercises the right to request a review of a contractor’s decision to deny Medicare coverage or payment for a service in full or in part. Also called postservice appeals. See also preservice appeal and expedited appeal.
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The right of a party who has received an adverse decision to take the case to a higher court for review.
Appeal process
In the Medicare program, a course of action used by a patient (beneficiary) if he or she disagrees with any decision about the health care services received. Now referred to as redetermination process.
Appeal review
1. Request process to reconsider a decision by an insurance plan after a first appeal. 2. In the Medicare program, the first step for an appeal is called redetermination (telephone, letter, or CMS-20027 Form) and the second step after a first appeal is called reconsideration.
Appeal rights
Right of an individual or provider to ask for a review of the case for a possible change in the decision.
Appeals board
In workers’ compensation cases, this phrase refers to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board (WCAB) of the Division of Workers’ Compensation in each state.
Appearance allowance (Vehicle Insurance)
Money given to the insured to keep a part of the vehicle that is barely damaged.
Appellant
Individual who appeals a claim decision.
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The person making an appeal to the higher court.