Set period of time that the patient can get hospice care after the physician says that the patient is eligible and still needs hospice care.

Procedure that introduces dialysate into the abdominal cavity to remove waste products through the peritoneum (a membrane that surrounds the intestines and other organs in the abdominal cavity). It functions in a manner similar to that of the artificial semipermeable membrane in the hemodialysis machine. Three forms of peritoneal dialysis are continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis, and intermittent peritoneal dialysis. This treatment can be done at home, at work, or at another convenient location.

Phrase used when a workers’ compensation patient has been on temporary disability and his or her condition has become stabilized within a reasonable period of time and no improvement is expected. It is only after this declaration that a case can be rated for a compromise and release. Also see maximum medical improvement.

In workers’ compensation cases, illness or injury (impairment of the normal use of a body part) expected to continue for the lifetime of the injured worker that prevents the person from performing the functions of his or her occupation, therefore, impairing his or her earning capacity. Permanent disability may be partial or total.

In workers’ compensation cases, indemnity payments to compensate an injured worker for impairment from an industrial injury or illness that lessens the worker’s ability to compete in the open labor market. It is not intended to replace wages or to compensate for pain and suffering.

In workers’ compensation cases, determination of the percentage of total disability of the injured worker. Considerations are the nature of the injury, occupation and age of the worker at the time of injury, and diminished ability to compete in the open labor market. The disability, not the pathological condition, is rated; thus a disease is not rated, but its permanent effect on the employee’s working capability is.

In workers’ compensation, a disability that has become stable during a time period that allows optimal tissue repair but is not likely to change regardless of further therapy or surgery.

Life insurance policy that is valid for the entire life of the insured.

Any form of life insurance except term insurance (i.e., whole life or endowment).

1. In workers’ compensation cases, permanent disability with a rating of less than 100% permanent disability. 2. Disability that interferes with the injured worker’s capability to compete in the open labor market in less than a total manner.