System of comparison of the costs of life insurance policies that weighs the dividends and cash values based on how much into the future the various amounts are payable. Three amounts are calculated: interest-adjusted cost, interest-adjusted payment, and the equivalent level annual dividend. Also known as surrender cost index (SCI) method .

Represents the average annual payment of a life insurance policy. This amount is obtained by calculating premiums and dividends. This cost amount is one figure calculated under the interest-adjusted net cost (IANC) method for comparing the costs of life insurance policies. Also called net payment cost index .

The point at which two different systems are linked (e.g., computer to printer or modem).

Borrowing of assets by a trust fund (Old Age, Survivors, Health and Disability Insurance [OASHDI], health insurance [HI], or supplementary medical insurance [SMI]) from another of the trust funds when one of the funds is in danger of exhaustion. Interfund borrowing was authorized only during 1982-1987.

Cooperative relationship between governments or between agencies within a level of government together with federal, state, and local governments to provide integrated services and manage the delivery system (e.g., local dollars for indigent care are matched with federal Medicaid dollars).

Itemized statement that shows only the beginning stay at a hospital or skilled nursing facility. It is generated when the hospital expects to submit a series of inpatient insurance claims after a minimum confinement of 30 days. Interim bills may be submitted by a hospital that is under a prospective payment system every 60 days during the patient’s confinement or course of treatment.

Immediate initial insurance coverage of an individual who applies for insurance between the date of a prepaid premium and the date the insurance company notifies the applicant of its underwriting decision.