State statutes designed to govern actions of insurers and third-party payers to pay insurance claims in a timely manner; also outlines actions collectors can take against insurance companies if statutes are not followed.

Official document(s) that report the birthplace, date of birth, and parents’ full names and home addresses such as a certified copy-of-birth record or a document supplied by a federal government agency during the census period that followed birth. This document may be required for a child participating in Little League in certain locations.

Evidence or process to verify that a patient is entitled to medical benefits in an insurance plan or program.

In workers’ compensation cases, evidence submitted by a process server that he or she has successfully delivered a legal document to a defendant in an action. Also called return of service.

Insurance claim that is submitted to the insurance carrier in a timely manner and meets all other claims filing requirements of the third-party payer (e.g., mandatory second opinion or prior authorization or approval before treatment).

In workers’ compensation cases, take preventive measures to guard against aggravation of an impairment (i.e., if the restrictions were exceeded, the injured worker may be at risk for additional injury).

First draft of new regulations for legislation developed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. After a public comment period, a final draft is created and adopted.

For-profit facility owned by individuals, partners, or a corporation. Also referred to as an investor-owned hospital.