Health Insurance Glossary I

Impaired Risk

An insurance applicant who has pre-existing poor health or is in substandard physical condition, is engaged in dangerous activities, or has a hazardous occupation.

Inception date

The date on which an insurance or reinsurance contract comes into force

Incurral Date

The date on which health care services are provided to a covered person. The incurral date, not the date on which the insurance company pays a health care claim, is the critical date in determining health insurance benefits. For example, a health insurance company will not pay a claim for health care services incurred prior to the effective date of the health insurance coverage.

Indemnity

The principle according to which a person who has suffered a loss is restored (so far as possible) to the same financial position that he was in immediately prior to the loss, subject in the case of insurance to any contractual limitation as to the amount payable (the loss may be greater than the policy limit). The application of this principle is called indemnification. Most contracts of insurance are contracts of indemnity. Life insurances and personal accident insurances are not contracts of indemnity as the payments due under those contracts for loss of life or bodily injury are not based on the principle of indemnity.

Inpatient Care

Health care that you get when you stay overnight in a hospital.

Insured

A person who is insured under a contract of insurance. Where there is one insured this person may also be referred to as the policyholder.

Ilio-tibial band (ITB) syndrome

Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome, also referred to as ITB friction syndrome, is an injury characterised by knee pain. It is a prevalent cause of outer knee pain among runners, cyclists, and athletes involved in various sports.

Indigestion

Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, encompasses a variety of symptoms, such as pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen. It is a common condition that can typically be managed with lifestyle adjustments or over-the-counter medications.

Indigestion medicines

Indigestion medications can alleviate symptoms of dyspepsia. Various options are available, and the appropriate choice depends on the underlying cause of symptoms and their frequency. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine the most suitable medication for individual needs.

Infertility treatments

Infertility treatments can enhance the likelihood of conceiving for individuals experiencing difficulty becoming pregnant. While conception may occur quickly for some, it may take longer for others, so it's important not to become overly concerned if it doesn't happen immediately. However, if conception hasn't been achieved after a year or two of trying, it may indicate fertility issues, and seeking additional assistance is advisable.

Infrapatellar fat pad syndrome

Infrapatellar fat pad syndrome is a condition characterised by knee pain. The infrapatellar fat pad, one of three pads of fatty soft tissue located beneath the kneecap (patella) at the front of the knee, is affected. It is also referred to as Hoffa's fat pad.

Inner (medial) knee pain

Inner or medial knee pain refers to pain on the side of the knee closest to the middle of the body, next to the opposite knee. "Medial" denotes the middle. There are various strategies available for managing inner knee pain, including both self-care measures and treatments.

Insomnia

Insomnia refers to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep long enough to feel refreshed the following morning. Symptoms include daytime tiredness and difficulty concentrating, which can significantly impact quality of life.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent disorder of the digestive system, characterised by symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort and changes in bowel habits. IBS can persist for years or even a lifetime, but there are various strategies available to help manage symptoms effectively.