Technological changes risk

Risk related to the rapid development of new technologies. Certain changes may have a significant impact on health and therefore employers’ liability claims, e.g. repetitive strain injury, from inceased use of visual display units. Technological changes have also impacted on the effectiveness of distribution channels leading to more insurance, especially personal lines, being sold and serviced electronically. This could adversely affect insurers and intermediaries more reliant on traditional methods.

technology assessment (TA)

Multidisciplinary field of policy analysis that studies the medical, social, ethical, and economic implications of the development, diffusion, and use of technologies. In support of national coverage determinations (NCDs), TA often focuses on the safety and efficacy of technologies. Each NCD includes a comprehensive TA process. For some NCDs, external TAs are requested through the Agency for Health Research and Quality (AHRQ). Also referred to as health care technology assessment (HTA) .

TEFRA 134

Provision of the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 that allows states to give Medicaid coverage to certain disabled children. Also referred to as the Katie Beckett option .

Telemedicine

1. Use of telecommunication systems in real-time or near real-time to transmit medical images and information to distant professionals for purposes of diagnosis and medical care (e.g., scanned images, direct digital capture [DDC], interactive television [IATV], and high-definition television [HDTV]). 2. Professional services given to a patient through an interactive telecommunications system by a practitioner at a distant site.