Health Insurance Glossary M

Master Policy

The group insurance policy that explains coverage to all members of the group.

Medical Necessity

Medical information justifying that the service rendered or item provided is reasonable and appropriate for the diagnosis or treatment of a medical condition or illness.

Medically Necessary

Many insurance policies will pay only for treatment that is deemed "medically necessary" to restore a person's health. For instance, many health insurance policies will not cover routine physical exams or plastic surgery for cosmetic purposes.

Misrepresentation

Lying or misleading an insurance company about the facts affecting a policy. Misrepresentation is grounds for voiding a policy.

Morbidity

A mathematical representation of the occurrence of illnesses to a specific classification of people.

Medial branch block

A medial branch block is a test to see if neck and back pain come from facet joints. Your facet joints are small pairs of joints that link together the bones in your spine. If the injections help to relieve your pain, it shows that your facet joints are causing it. You may then be able to have a longer-term treatment called radiofrequency denervation.

Male infertility

Male infertility refers to the inability to naturally impregnate someone. Investigations and treatments are often required to improve the chances of conception.

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a single, combined vaccine that protects against all three diseases. In the UK, it is provided as part of the NHS childhood immunisation programme. If you didn't receive the MMR vaccine as a child, you can still get it later in life.

Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury

A medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury involves damage to one of the ligaments inside your knee. The MCL is located on the inner side of the knee joint and connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). This injury can range from a partial or complete tear to a stretched ligament or a detachment of the ligament from the bone.

Medicines and pain relief for lower back pain

There are medications available to help alleviate lower back pain. While these can relieve symptoms like pain, they do not address the underlying cause. Therefore, it is crucial to stay active and mobile. Medications can aid in maintaining your activity levels.

Meniscus tear

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury affecting the meniscus, which consists of two crescent-shaped pads of thick, rubbery, shock-absorbing cartilage in the knee joint. These pads are located between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia).

Menopause

The menopause marks the cessation of ovarian function and the end of menstruation. It is accompanied by symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, and mood changes. Menopause is a natural phase of life, with the average age in the UK being 51, though individual experiences may vary widely.

Microalbuminuria

Microalbuminuria refers to a condition where the level of a protein called albumin in the urine is slightly elevated compared to normal. It can serve as an early indicator of kidney disease, which frequently arises as a complication of diabetes and other health issues.

Miscarriage

A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before the 23rd week. The majority occur within the first 12 weeks, sometimes even before pregnancy is known. While distressing, being prepared for what to expect and receiving adequate support can aid in coping with the experience, both for you and your partner.

MRI scan

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It is a diagnostic imaging technique that generates detailed images of the inside of the body using a powerful magnet and radio waves. MRI scans are frequently employed in the diagnosis and monitoring of various medical conditions.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is indeed a lifelong condition that impacts the nerves within the brain and spinal cord, collectively known as the central nervous system. This disorder can lead to various symptoms including impairment in muscle control, vision, and balance. Additionally, individuals with MS may experience symptoms such as pain and profound fatigue.

Muscle strain

A muscle strain, also known as a pulled muscle, occurs when muscle fibers become injured, resulting in a torn muscle. This injury can happen if you stretch a muscle beyond its normal range of motion or exert it excessively or too quickly. Muscle strains are common and can affect any muscle in the body.