Medical Terminology
Expert-defined terms from the Professional Certificate in Medical Coding and Billing course at UK School of Management. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Medical Terminology Glossary #
Medical Terminology Glossary
A #
A
Abdomen #
The part of the body between the chest and pelvis that contains the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and other organs.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) #
A bulging, weakened area in the wall of the aorta within the abdomen.
Abduction #
Movement of a limb away from the midline of the body.
Abnormal #
Not normal; deviating from the usual structure, position, condition, or behavior.
Acute #
Refers to a disease or condition that has a sudden onset and a short duration.
Allergy #
A hypersensitivity reaction to a particular substance (allergen).
Alveoli #
Tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place.
Anemia #
A condition in which the blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells or hemoglobin.
Anesthesia #
Loss of sensation, either partial or complete, with or without the loss of consciousness.
Anesthesiologist #
A medical doctor who specializes in providing anesthesia during surgery.
Antibiotic #
A medication used to treat bacterial infections.
Antibody #
A protein produced by the immune system in response to the presence of a specific antigen.
Antigen #
A substance that triggers an immune response in the body.
Artery #
Blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart to the body's tissues and organs.
Arthroscopy #
A minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems.
Aspiration #
Breathing in a foreign object, such as food or liquid, into the airway.
Auscultation #
Listening to sounds within the body, typically with a stethoscope.
Autoimmune #
Refers to a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.
Avulsion #
The tearing away of a body part or tissue.
B #
B
Bacterium #
A single-celled microorganism that can cause infection.
Biopsy #
A procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed for examination under a microscope.
Bladder #
A hollow organ in the pelvis that stores urine.
Blood Pressure #
The force of blood against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps.
Blood Transfusion #
The process of transferring blood or blood products from one person (donor) to another (recipient).
Bradycardia #
Abnormally slow heart rate, usually fewer than 60 beats per minute.
Brainstem #
The base of the brain that connects the brain to the spinal cord and controls basic life functions.
Bronchitis #
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to the lungs.
Bunion #
A painful bony bump that develops on the joint at the base of the big toe.
Bursitis #
Inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac near a joint.
C #
C
Calorie #
A unit of energy used to measure the energy content of food.
Cancer #
A group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.
Cardiac #
Refers to the heart.
Cardiologist #
A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating heart diseases.
Cardiology #
The branch of medicine that deals with the heart and its diseases.
Carotid Artery #
Blood vessels in the neck that supply blood to the brain.
Catheter #
A thin tube inserted into the body to remove fluids, deliver medication, or perform a procedure.
Cauterize #
To burn tissue with heat or a caustic substance to stop bleeding or destroy abnormal tissue.
Celiac Disease #
An autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine.
Cellulitis #
A bacterial skin infection that causes red, swollen, and painful skin.
Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) #
Also known as a stroke, occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted.
Chemotherapy #
The use of drugs to kill cancer cells.
Cholecystectomy #
Surgical removal of the gallbladder.
Cholesterol #
A waxy, fat-like substance found in the blood and cells.
Chronic #
Refers to a disease or condition that persists over a long period of time.
Colonoscopy #
A procedure used to examine the inside of the colon and rectum.
Concussion #
A mild traumatic brain injury that causes temporary loss of normal brain function.
Contraindication #
A factor that makes the use of a treatment or procedure inadvisable.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) #
A condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked.
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) #
Emergency procedure performed to manually preserve brain function until further measures are taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing.
CT Scan (Computed Tomography) #
A diagnostic imaging test that uses x-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the body.
Cyst #
A sac-like pocket of tissue that can form in any part of the body.
Cystectomy #
Surgical removal of a cyst.
D #
D
Dementia #
A group of symptoms affecting memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily functioning.
Diabetes Mellitus #
A group of diseases that result in high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period.
Diagnosis #
The identification of a disease or condition based on signs, symptoms, and test results.
Diaphragm #
A muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity and plays a key role in breathing.
Diarrhea #
Frequent, loose, watery stools.
Diagnostic #
Relating to the identification of a disease or condition.
Dialysis #
A treatment used to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so.
Dislocation #
The displacement of a bone from its normal position in a joint.
Diverticulitis #
Inflammation or infection of pouches that can form in the wall of the colon.
Drug Interaction #
The effect that occurs when two or more drugs react with each other.
Dyspnea #
Shortness of breath.
E #
E
ECG (Electrocardiogram) #
A test that records the electrical activity of the heart.
Edema #
Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in your body's tissues.
Electrolytes #
Minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge.
Embolism #
A blood clot, air bubble, piece of fat, or other foreign material that travels through the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel.
Emphysema #
A type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that causes irreversible damage to the air sacs in the lungs.
Endocrine System #
A group of glands that produce hormones to regulate various bodily functions.
Endoscopy #
A procedure used to examine the inside of the body using an endoscope.
Epidermis #
The outermost layer of the skin.
Epidural #
An injection into the space around the spinal cord.
Epilepsy #
A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.
Esophagus #
The tube that connects the throat to the stomach.
Excision #
Surgical removal of tissue.
Exudate #
Fluid that leaks out of blood vessels into nearby tissues.
F #
F
Fascia #
A thin sheath of fibrous tissue enclosing a muscle or other organ.
Fecal #
Relating to feces or bowel movements.
Fibromyalgia #
A chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue.
Fibrosis #
The formation of excess fibrous connective tissue in an organ or tissue.
Fluoroscopy #
A type of medical imaging that shows a continuous X-ray image on a monitor.
Fracture #
A broken bone.
G #
G
Gastritis #
Inflammation of the lining of the stomach.
Gastroenteritis #
Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
Gastrointestinal #
Relating to the stomach and intestines.
Genetics #
The study of genes and heredity.
Glaucoma #
A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve.
Glucose #
A simple sugar that serves as the primary source of energy for the body's cells.
Graft #
A piece of tissue or an organ transplanted from one part of the body to another or from one person to another.
H #
H
Heart Attack #
A sudden and sometimes fatal occurrence of coronary thrombosis, typically resulting in the death of part of a heart muscle.
Heart Failure #
A condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Hematoma #
A solid swelling of clotted blood within the tissues.
Hematuria #
The presence of blood in the urine.
Hemoglobin #
A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
Hemorrhage #
An escape of blood from a ruptured blood vessel.
Hepatitis #
Inflammation of the liver, usually caused by a viral infection.
Hereditary #
Passing of traits from parents to offspring through genes.
Hernia #
A condition in which an internal organ or tissue bulges through a weak area in the muscle or tissue that normally holds it in place.
Hyperglycemia #
Abnormally high blood sugar levels.
Hypertension #
High blood pressure.
Hypoglycemia #
Abnormally low blood sugar levels.
Hypotension #
Low blood pressure.
Hypoxia #
A condition in which the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply.
I #
I
Immune System #
The body's defense against infectious organisms and other invaders.
Infection #
The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are not normally present within the body.
Inflammation #
The body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Influenza #
A highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory passages causing fever, severe aching, and catarrh, and often occurring in epidemics.
Ingrown Nail #
A condition in which the edge of a toenail grows into the skin of the toe.
Injury #
Physical harm or damage to the body caused by an external force.
Insomnia #
A sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
Integumentary System #
The organ system that protects the body from various kinds of damage, such as loss of water or abrasion from outside.
Intubation #
The insertion of a tube into the windpipe to maintain an open airway.
Ischemia #
A restriction in blood supply to tissues, causing a shortage of oxygen and glucose needed for cellular metabolism.
J #
J
Jaundice #
A yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the blood.
K #
K
Kidneys #
The organs that filter waste products from the blood and produce urine.
L #
L
Laryngitis #
Inflammation of the larynx (voice box), typically resulting in a hoarse voice or loss of voice.
Larynx #
The structure in the throat containing the vocal cords.
Laser Surgery #
A surgical procedure that uses a laser beam to remove tissue.
Lesion #
Any abnormal change in the structure of an organ or tissue caused by disease or injury.
Leukemia #
A type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow.
Ligament #
A tough band of tissue that connects bones to other bones.
Liver #
The largest internal organ in the body, responsible for processing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and producing bile.
Lumbar #
Referring to the lower back region.
Lung Cancer #
A type of cancer that begins in the lungs.
Lymph Node #
A small, bean-shaped structure that filters lymph fluid before it returns to the bloodstream.
Lymphatic System #
A network of organs, vessels, and nodes that help the body fight infection and disease.
M #
M
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) #
A diagnostic imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body.
Malignant #
Refers to cancerous cells that can invade and destroy nearby tissues.
Mammography #
A screening test used to detect breast cancer.
Mastectomy #
Surgical removal of one or both breasts.
Measles #
A highly contagious viral infection that causes a characteristic rash.
Melanoma #
A type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin.
Menopause #
The cessation of menstruation in women, typically occurring around the age of 50.
Meningitis #
Inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
Mesothelioma #
A type of cancer that occurs in the thin layer of tissue that covers the majority of your internal organs.
Metastasis #
The spread of cancer cells from one part of the body to another.
Microbiology #
The study of microscopic organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Migraine #
A severe headache that can cause intense throbbing or pulsing.
Minimally Invasive Surgery #
Surgical procedures performed through small incisions using specialized tools and techniques.
Mononucleosis #
A viral infection that causes fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) #
A diagnostic imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body.
Multiple Sclerosis #
A chronic disease of the central nervous system that affects the brain and spinal cord.
Murmur #
An abnormal heart sound caused by turbulent blood flow.
Myocardial Infarction #
Also known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked.
N #
N
Nasogastric Tube #
A tube inserted through the nose into the stomach to deliver nutrients or medications.
Necrosis #
The death of cells or tissues due to injury, disease, or lack of blood supply.
Neonatal #
Relating to newborn infants.
Nephrology #
The branch of medicine that deals with the kidneys.
Nervous System #
The network of nerve cells and fibers that transmit nerve impulses between parts of the body.
Neurologist #
A medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating diseases of the nervous system.
Neurology #
The branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the nervous system.
Neuropathy #
Damage or dysfunction of one or more nerves that can result in numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and pain.
Neurosurgery #
Surgical treatment of disorders of the nervous system.
Normal #
Conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected.
Nutrition #
The process of providing or obtaining the food necessary for health and growth.
O #
O
Obstetrics #
The branch of medicine that deals with pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
Oncology #
The branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer.
Ophthalmologist #
A medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care.
Ophthalmology #
The branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, physiology, and diseases of the eye.
Orthopedic #
Relating to the branch of medicine that deals with the prevention or correction of injuries or disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints, and ligaments.
Orthopedics #
The branch of medicine that deals with the prevention or correction of injuries or disorders of the skeletal system and associated muscles, joints, and ligaments.
Osteoarthritis #
A degenerative joint disease that causes the breakdown of cartilage in the joints.
Osteoporosis #
A condition in which bones become weak and brittle.
Otolaryngologist #
A medical doctor who specializes in disorders of the ear, nose, and throat.
Otolaryngology #
The branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the ear, nose, and throat.
Outpatient #
A patient who receives medical treatment without being admitted to a hospital.
Ovaries #
The female reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones.
Oxygen #
A gas that is essential for life and is carried by the blood to all parts of the body.
P #
P
Pacemaker #
A small device that is implanted under the skin to help control abnormal heart rhythms.
Palliative Care #
Care that focuses on improving the quality of life of patients with serious illnesses.
Pancreas #
An organ located behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones, including
A #
A
Abdominal #
Abdominal
Definition #
Relating to the abdomen, which is the part of the body between the chest and the pelvis.
Example #
Abdominal pain can be a symptom of various medical conditions.
Acute #
Acute
Definition #
Refers to a sudden onset or brief duration of a medical condition or symptom.
Example #
Acute bronchitis is a temporary inflammation of the bronchial tubes.
Anesthesia #
Anesthesia
Definition #
The medical practice of using medication to block sensation in a specific area of the body or induce unconsciousness during surgical procedures.
Example #
General anesthesia is often used for major surgeries to keep patients unconscious and pain-free.
B #
B
Billing #
Billing
Definition #
The process of submitting claims to insurance companies or patients for healthcare services rendered by healthcare providers.
Example #
Medical billing professionals ensure accurate coding to maximize reimbursement for healthcare services.
Biopsy #
Biopsy
Definition #
A procedure in which a sample of tissue is removed from the body for examination under a microscope to diagnose or evaluate a medical condition.
Example #
A skin biopsy is often performed to diagnose skin conditions such as melanoma.
C #
C
Chronic #
Chronic
Definition #
Refers to a long-lasting or recurring medical condition that persists over time.
Example #
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease.
CPT Code #
CPT Code
Definition #
Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes are five-digit codes used by healthcare providers to describe medical, surgical, and diagnostic services for billing purposes.
Example #
A CPT code is assigned for each procedure performed during a patient's visit.
Computed Tomography (CT) #
Computed Tomography (CT)
Definition #
A diagnostic imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
Example #
A CT scan can help identify internal injuries or diseases in various body parts.
D #
D
Diagnosis #
Diagnosis
Definition #
The identification of a medical condition or disease based on symptoms, signs, and diagnostic tests.
Example #
A proper diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan.
Documentation #
Documentation
Definition #
The recording of patient information, medical history, exam findings, and treatment plans in a healthcare setting.
Example #
Accurate documentation is essential for proper coding and billing of healthcare services.
Drug Formulary #
Drug Formulary
Definition #
A list of prescription medications approved for use within a healthcare system, insurance plan, or pharmacy.
Example #
Healthcare providers refer to the drug formulary to prescribe cost-effective medications to patients.
E #
E
Electronic Health Record (EHR) #
Electronic Health Record (EHR)
Definition #
A digital version of a patient's paper chart that contains medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, and test results.
Example #
EHRs allow healthcare providers to access patient information securely and efficiently.
Emergency Department (ED) #
Emergency Department (ED)
Definition #
A medical facility equipped to provide immediate care for individuals with acute illnesses, injuries, or life-threatening conditions.
Example #
Patients with chest pain or severe trauma often seek treatment in the emergency department.
Enrollment Period #
Enrollment Period
Definition #
A specific timeframe during which individuals can sign up for health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace or employer-sponsored plans.
Example #
Open enrollment allows individuals to make changes to their insurance coverage for the upcoming year.
F #
F
Fee Schedule #
Fee Schedule
Definition #
A list of predetermined fees or payment amounts established by insurance companies for healthcare services provided by healthcare providers.
Example #
Healthcare providers may negotiate fee schedules with insurance companies to determine reimbursement rates.
Health Information Management (HIM) #
Health Information Management (HIM)
Definition #
The practice of acquiring, analyzing, and protecting medical information vital to providing quality patient care and meeting regulatory requirements.
Example #
Health information management professionals ensure the accuracy and confidentiality of patient records.
ICD #
10-CM Code
Definition #
International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) codes are alphanumeric codes used by healthcare providers to describe diagnoses for billing purposes.
Example #
An ICD-10-CM code is assigned to each diagnosis made during a patient encounter.
G #
G
Gradual #
Gradual
Definition #
Refers to a slow and steady progression of a medical condition or symptom over time.
Example #
Gradual weight loss may be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Gross Examination #
Gross Examination
Definition #
The initial visual inspection of surgical specimens or tissues without the use of a microscope.
Example #
Gross examination helps pathologists identify abnormalities or lesions in tissue samples.
Guaiac Test #
Guaiac Test
Definition #
A screening test used to detect hidden blood in the stool, which may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding or colorectal cancer.
Example #
The guaiac test is a common method for colorectal cancer screening in asymptomatic individuals.
H #
H
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) #
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
Definition #
Federal legislation that establishes standards for the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI) to protect patient confidentiality.
Example #
Healthcare providers must comply with HIPAA regulations to safeguard patient health information.
Hypertension #
Hypertension
Definition #
High blood pressure, a common condition in which the force of blood against the artery walls is consistently too high.
Example #
Hypertension is a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.
ICD #
10-PCS Code
Definition #
International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Procedure Coding System (ICD-10-PCS) codes are alphanumeric codes used by healthcare providers to describe procedures for billing purposes.
Example #
An ICD-10-PCS code is assigned to each procedure performed during a patient encounter.
I #
I
Inpatient #
Inpatient
Definition #
Refers to a patient admitted to a hospital or healthcare facility for treatment and care that requires an overnight stay.
Example #
Inpatient services include hospitalization, surgery, and intensive medical care.
Insurance Verification #
Insurance Verification
Definition #
The process of confirming a patient's insurance coverage, benefits, and eligibility for healthcare services.
Example #
Insurance verification helps healthcare providers determine the patient's financial responsibility for treatment.
Intake Interview #
Intake Interview
Definition #
A structured conversation between a healthcare provider and a patient to gather relevant medical history, symptoms, and personal information.
Example #
The intake interview helps healthcare providers assess the patient's needs and develop a treatment plan.
J #
J
Joint Commission #
Joint Commission
Definition #
An independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs in the United States.
Example #
Healthcare facilities seek Joint Commission accreditation to demonstrate their commitment to quality and patient safety.
Jaundice #
Jaundice
Definition #
A condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to the buildup of bilirubin in the blood.
Example #
Jaundice can be a symptom of liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or hemolytic anemia.
K #
K
Kinesiology #
Kinesiology
Definition #
The study of human movement, including the mechanics, anatomy, and physiology of muscles and joints.
Example #
Kinesiology is often used in physical therapy to improve movement and function.
Ketones #
Ketones
Definition #
Chemical substances produced by the liver when the body breaks down fat for energy in the absence of sufficient glucose.
Example #
Ketones can be detected in the urine or blood of individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or during fasting.
L #
L
Laboratory Test #
Laboratory Test
Definition #
A medical procedure that involves the analysis of blood, urine, tissue, or other samples to diagnose, monitor, or treat a medical condition.
Example #
Common laboratory tests include blood glucose, cholesterol, and complete blood count (CBC).
Local Anesthesia #
Local Anesthesia
Definition #
A type of anesthesia that numbs a specific area of the body while the patient remains awake and alert.
Example #
Local anesthesia is often used for minor surgical procedures or dental work.
Lymphadenopathy #
Lymphadenopathy
Definition #
Enlargement or inflammation of lymph nodes, which may be a sign of infection, inflammation, or cancer.
Example #
Lymphadenopathy in the neck can be caused by a throat infection or malignancy.
M #
M
Medication Administration #
Medication Administration
Definition #
The process of delivering prescribed medications to patients by healthcare providers through various routes such as oral, intravenous, or topical.
Example #
Medication administration requires proper dosing, timing, and documentation for patient safety.
Medical Coding #
Medical Coding
Definition #
The translation of healthcare services, procedures, diagnoses, and equipment into alphanumeric codes for billing and insurance purposes.
Example #
Certified medical coders assign CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS codes to medical records.
Medical Record #
Medical Record
Definition #
A comprehensive document that contains a patient's medical history, diagnoses, treatments, test results, medications, and healthcare provider notes.
Example #
Healthcare providers use medical records to track patient care, communicate with other providers, and support billing.
N #
N
Neonate #
Neonate
Definition #
A newborn infant, typically up to 28 days old, who requires specialized care and monitoring.
Example #
Neonates may be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for prematurity or medical conditions.
Nurse Practitioner (NP) #
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Definition #
An advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with specialized training in diagnosing, treating, and managing acute and chronic health conditions.
Example #
Nurse practitioners can provide primary care, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests.
O #
O
Outpatient #
Outpatient
Definition #
Refers to a patient who receives medical treatment or services without being admitted to a hospital or healthcare facility overnight.
Example #
Outpatient services include doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and minor procedures.
Occupational Therapy #
Occupational Therapy
Definition #
A healthcare profession that helps individuals of all ages improve their ability to perform daily activities and regain independence after injury, illness, or disability.
Example #
Occupational therapists use adaptive techniques and equipment to assist patients in achieving their goals.
Oxygen Saturation #
Oxygen Saturation
Definition #
The percentage of hemoglobin saturated with oxygen in the blood, typically measured using a pulse oximeter.
Example #
Normal oxygen saturation levels are between 95% and 100% in healthy individuals.
P #
P
Pharmacology #
Pharmacology
Definition #
The study of how drugs interact with living organisms, including their effects, mechanisms of action, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
Example #
Pharmacology is essential for understanding the benefits and risks of medications in patient care.
Patient Rights #
Patient Rights
Definition #
Legal and ethical principles that protect patients' autonomy, privacy, dignity, and access to quality healthcare.
Example #
Patients have the right to informed consent, confidentiality, and access to their medical records.
Preventive Care #
Preventive Care
Definition #
Healthcare services and interventions aimed at preventing illness, promoting wellness, and detecting diseases early.
Example #
Preventive care includes vaccinations, screenings, counseling, and lifestyle modifications.
Q #
Q
Quality Improvement #
Quality Improvement
Definition #
A systematic approach to assessing, monitoring, and enhancing the quality and safety of healthcare services to improve patient outcomes.
Example #
Quality improvement initiatives may involve data analysis, process redesign, and staff training.
Quarantine #
Quarantine
Definition #
A period of isolation or restriction of movement to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.
Example #
Individuals exposed to communicable diseases may be required to undergo quarantine for a specified period.
R #
R
Reimbursement #
Reimbursement
Definition #
The compensation or payment made to healthcare providers by insurance companies, government programs, or patients for healthcare services rendered.
Example #
Reimbursement rates vary by payer and may be based on fee schedules, negotiated contracts, or fee-for-service.
Radiology #
Radiology
Definition #
The medical specialty that uses imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasound to diagnose and treat diseases.
Example #
Radiologists interpret imaging studies to identify fractures, tumors, infections, and other abnormalities.
Respiratory Therapy #
Respiratory Therapy
Definition #
A healthcare profession that focuses on assessing, treating, and managing patients with breathing disorders or cardiopulmonary conditions.
Example #
Respiratory therapists provide oxygen therapy, breathing treatments, and ventilator support to patients.
S #
S
Social Determinants of Health #
Social Determinants of Health
Definition #
Non-medical factors such as socioeconomic status, education, housing, and environment that influence health outcomes and disparities.
Example #
Social determinants of health can impact access to healthcare, nutrition, and overall well-being.
SOAP Note #
SOAP Note
Definition #
A documentation format used by healthcare providers to record subjective, objective, assessment, and plan information for patient encounters.
Example #