Health Insurance Glossary S

Schedule of Benefits and Exclusions

A health insurance listing of the benefits which are covered under the policy guidelines as well as services which are not provided under the policy.

Second Surgical Opinion

This is an opinion provided by a second physician, when one physician recommends surgery to an individual. Most health insurance policies cover second surgical opinions.

Short-Term Medical Insurance

Temporary major medical coverage designed to fill "gaps" in traditional medical coverage. Short-term plans typically last no longer than one year and cannot be renewed.

Skilled Nursing Facility

A licensed institution that provides regular medical care and treatment to sick and injured persons. Daily medical records are kept and patients are under the care of a licensed physician.

Special Benefit Networks

Provider networks for particular services, such as mental health, substance abuse, or prescription drugs.

Standard Industrial Classification (SIC)

Coding of businesses by their product or service. This classification is used in group insurance in determining rates for various industries.

Stop-loss Provisions

A limit in a health insurance policy that provides for 100% payment of expenses after total patient out-of-pocket expenses exceed a certain contractual amount

Surgery Insurance

A commercial combined policy that usually covers buildings and contents of a healthcare / medical practice and can include business interruption, employers and public liabilities on an all risks basis. Here at Medical Insurance consultants we provide Choices Surgery Insurance for the Medical/Heathcare professions as well as Choices Surgery Insurance tailored specifically for the Dental profession.

Flexible sigmoidoscopy

A flexible sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the lower portion of the large bowel. It involves the insertion of a flexible tube, equipped with a camera, called an endoscope, to investigate symptoms like rectal bleeding.

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever, caused by group A streptococcus bacteria, manifests as a rash and sore throat. Though typically mild, treatment with antibiotics is necessary to mitigate potential complications. Seek medical attention promptly if you suspect you or your child has contracted it.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis, or curvature of the spine, entails a permanent sideways curve in the spine, typically noticeable. While common in adolescents, it may naturally stop or require treatment to prevent further curvature, particularly in young children.

Seborrhoeic dermatitis

Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a skin condition characterised by a red, flaky, and itchy rash. It commonly affects greasier areas of the skin, such as the face, scalp, and chest. This condition is also referred to as seborrhoeic eczema.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are spread through sexual activity, including unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as by sharing sex toys. While STIs are most common among individuals under 25, anyone who is sexually active is at risk of contracting one.

Shin splints

Shin splints cause pain in the lower leg around the shin bone, typically triggered by exercise. While this condition is usually not serious, there are many self-care measures you can take to alleviate the symptoms.

Shoulder arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy is a type of keyhole surgery that allows surgeons to see, diagnose, and treat problems in the shoulder. During the procedure, a tiny camera is used to look inside the shoulder joint.

Shoulder replacement

Shoulder replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged shoulder joint with an artificial one. The procedure can be either a total or partial replacement, typically recommended due to wear and tear from arthritis or an injury.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis occurs when the lining of the sinuses becomes inflamed and swollen, usually due to a sinus infection. This condition can cause a blocked nose and facial pain. While sinusitis often resolves on its own within a few weeks, various treatments are available to help if it persists.

Skin cancer (non-melanoma)

Non-melanoma skin cancer originates in the top layers of the skin and commonly occurs on sun-exposed areas like the face. However, it can also manifest on other parts of the body such as the neck, hands, back, lower legs, and forearms.

Skin lesion removal

Skin lesion removal involves the elimination of moles, warts, skin tags, or other types of skin growths. While most skin lesions are harmless, a doctor may recommend removal if they are causing significant issues or if there is suspicion of cancer. Additionally, individuals may opt for private removal of a lesion if it is bothersome or if they are unhappy with its appearance.

Sprained ankle

A sprained ankle is a frequently occurring type of ankle injury resulting from excessive twisting or turning of the foot beyond its usual range of motion. This action can lead to the stretching or tearing of the ligaments supporting the joint. While a sprained ankle can cause significant pain, most cases tend to heal effectively.

Steroid joint injections

Steroid joint injections are administered to alleviate inflammation and pain within joints, enhancing joint mobility. These injections are commonly recommended for individuals experiencing discomfort or swelling in joints such as the knee, hip, shoulder, elbow, hand, or wrist.

Stomach cancer

Cancer arises from cells in the body multiplying in an irregular and unrestrained manner. Predominantly, stomach cancers manifest as adenocarcinomas, originating from gland cells within the stomach lining. This information pertains specifically to this subtype of stomach cancer, often referred to as gastric cancer. Indications encompass abdominal discomfort or unexplained weight loss. Early detection offers the prospect of curing stomach cancer. Conversely, if diagnosed in advanced stages, treatment aims to manage the cancer, alleviate symptoms, and enhance quality of life.

Stress

Stress manifests when one experiences emotional or mental strain. A moderate level of stress can be beneficial, aiding in responsive reactions to various situations. However, prolonged and excessive stress can lead to both mental and physical health issues.

Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a portion of the brain is obstructed. Recognising the signs of a stroke promptly is crucial as it constitutes a medical emergency, necessitating immediate hospital treatment.

Subacromial decompression

Subacromial decompression surgery addresses shoulder impingement, a condition causing pain when raising your arm. During this surgery, usually performed arthroscopically (keyhole surgery), the surgeon creates more space in the shoulder joint by removing a small portion of bone or tissue, relieving pressure on the tendons. This procedure is sometimes called acromioplasty.

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a kind of irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) where the upper chambers of your heart beat too quickly due to abnormal electrical signals.

Surgery for a broken bone

For severe fractures, surgery may be needed to realign and stabilise the broken bone. This involves using implants like metal plates, rods, wires, screws, or pins to hold the bone fragments in place while they heal. The specific type of surgery and implant used will depend on the location and severity of the break.

Work-related stress

Does your job feel like it's controlling your life? Work-related stress occurs when work demands exceed your ability to cope. This can manifest as physical and mental health problems. Recognising the early signs and taking action can help prevent long-term consequences.