"The chief merit of language is clearness, and we know that
nothing detracts so much from this as do unfamiliar terms."
Galen (A.D. 129-199)

Revised January 2004

This glossary is intended to be used primarily as a reference guide for health care policymakers. It is periodically updated and edited to reflect the changing lexicon of health care terms and concepts. Major sources of original definitions include the publications, articles, and Web sites listed in Appendix B, as well as personal communication with experts in health care policy and service delivery.

The glossary is divided into three sections: (a) health care delivery and financing terms; (b) epidemiological and statistical terms; and (c) accounting and economic terms. It also includes an appendix that lists commonly used acronyms.

AcademyHealth is a nonprofit organization located in Washington, D.C. Support for the development of this glossary has been provided in part by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, User Liaison Program (Contract Numbers 290-91-0082 and 290-98-0003). If you have comments or questions about this document, please contact AcademyHealth at 1150 17th Street, NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC 20036, 202.292.6700.