Type of insurance that pays benefits for only a single disease such as cancer or end-stage renal disease or for a group of diseases. It does not fill gaps in Medicare coverage.

Health insurance that provides benefits for certain medical supplies or treatments or for specific illnesses (e.g., dental, vision care, prescription drugs, long-term care, dread disease).

Medicaid program that pays for Medicare Part B premiums for individuals who have Medicare Part A, a low monthly income, and limited resources.

Small sample of tissue, intended to show the nature of the whole, for pathological diagnosis (e.g., a urine specimen).

Computerized voice recognition system that makes it possible for a computer system to respond to spoken words. Two basic categories are navigation or command control , which allows an individual to launch and operate software applications with spoken directions, and dictation software , which makes it possible for a computer system to recognize spoken words and automatically convert them into text.

Treatment designed to help restore speech through exercises. May be a benefit covered by the Medicare program.

Individual who has a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association, has completed the equivalent educational requirements and work experience necessary for the certificate, or has completed the academic program and is acquiring supervised work experience to qualify for the certificate. SLPs specialize in the measurement and evaluation of language abilities, auditory processes, speech production, and swallowing problems.

Treatment to regain and strengthen speech skills.

In the Medicaid program, process of using up assets or income until an individual reaches the eligibility level because of the need for confinement in a nursing home or for long-term care. Also referred to as spending down .