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HCFA 1500 Billing Form (CMS)- A form used by doctors to file insurance claims for medicalservices.

HCPC Codes - Codes used to describe what was done to you by your doctor.

Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA)- Former name of the government agency now called the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Healthcare Provider- Someone who provides medical services, such as doctors, hospitals, or laboratories. This term should not be confused with insurance companies that "provide" insurance.

Health Insurance -Coverage that pays benefits for sickness or injury. It includes insurance for accidents, medical expenses, disabilities, or accidental death and dismemberment.

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) -An insurance plan that pays for preventive and other medical services by specific group of participating providers.

HIPAA - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This federal act sets standards for protecting the privacy of your health information.

Home Health Agency- An agency that treats patients in their homes.

Hospice - Group that offers inpatient, outpatient, and home healthcare for terminally ill patients.

Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System (PPS) -A federal system that pays a fixed fee for inpatient care.