To use a brief list of diagnostic codes and use those codes for all patients whether or not the codes match their actual diagnoses.

Abbreviation for provider identification number (PIN). PINs are now referred to as provider transaction access numbers (PTANs). See provider transaction access number (PTAN).

Excessive referrals to other providers for unnecessary services. A physician or facility may use this technique to gain favor with colleagues.

Principal inpatient diagnostic cost group model that was phased out in 2003 and replaced by the hierarchical condition categories (HCC) model. See hierarchical condition categories (HCC) model.