Refers to health care providers who offer services to patients regardless of their ability to pay.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a branch of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for improving the behavioral health of the nation and reducing the impact of substance abuse and mental illness in America.

Many health insurance plans require patients to consult with a second doctor before undergoing non-emergency surgery.

A plan that allows for employees to pay for health insurance premiums and receive certain benefits on a pre-tax basis.

A company that pays medical claims for their employees rather than holding insurance, usually hiring an insurance company to administer the benefits. Common among large firms. Self-insured plans are not subject to ERISA law or most Affordable Care Act insurance regulations.

An individual who decides (and is financially able) to cover their own medical costs without an insurance plan. Those that chose to self-insure will owe a tax penalty as a result of the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate.

Refers to a plan where the employer responsible for the costs of the enrollees' medical claims.

The geographical region covered by in-network health care providers.

The second lowest actuarial level health plans available through the insurance exchanges, equal to a 70 percent actuarial value. An individual’s subsidy is based on the second lowest cost silver plan in their region. Bronze, Gold, and Platinum plans offer varying actuarial values.

A health care payment system, which a single entity pays for but is not involved in delivery of the health care.