QU

HCPCS Level II modifier that was used with CPT or HCPCS Level II codes and indicated a physician provided services in an urban health professional shortage area (HPSA). Modifier AQ, which became effective January 1, 2006, replaced the QU modifier.

Qualification period

Length of time that the insured must be totally disabled to be eligible for residual disability insurance benefits.
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US: The period during which the insured must be totally disabled before becoming eligible for residual disability benefits.

Qualified injured worker

In workers’ compensation cases, an injured worker entitled to receive vocational rehabilitation services because the injury prevents return to his or her usual occupation or the job performed at the time of the injury. Thus the injured worker is considered medically eligible because he or she is expected to return to employment after undergoing vocational rehabilitation services.

qualified medical evaluator (QME)

Physician who has been appointed and certified by the Industrial Medical Council (IMC) and conducts medicolegal evaluations of injured workers in workers’ compensation cases for insurance companies or workers’ compensation appeals board. QMEs render an unbiased opinion about the degree of disability of an injured worker. May be referred to as independent medical evaluator (IME) or agreed medical evaluator (AME) .

qualified medical expense (QME)

Medical expense that is primarily to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental defect or illness. This is defined by the Internal Revenue Service Code Section 213(d). Qualified medical expenses include medical, dental, and vision care deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Out-of-pocket costs not reimbursed by insurance (amounts above what insurance pays or amounts in excess of reasonable and customary charges). Expenses not covered by a health care policy (routine physical examinations or well-baby visits). Any other out-of-pocket medical expenses that are considered eligible as a tax deduction for federal income tax purposes.