This glossary explains terms in the Medicare program.
R
Recovery contractor
A company that acts on behalf of Medicare to obtain repayment when Medicare makes a conditional payment and the other payer is determined to be primary.
Referral
A written order from your primary care doctor for you to see a specialist or get certain medical services. In many Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), you need to get a referral before you can get medical care from anyone except your primary care doctor. If you don't get a referral first, the plan may not pay for the services.
Rehabilitation services
Services that help you regain abilities, such as speech or walking, that have been impaired by an illness or injury. These services are given by nurses, and physical, occupational, and speech therapists. Examples include working with a physical therapist to help you walk and with an occupational therapist to help you get dressed.
Religious nonmedical health care institution
A facility that provides nonmedical health care items and services to people who need hospital or skilled nursing facility care, but for whom that care would be inconsistent with their religious beliefs.
Respite care
Temporary care provided in a nursing home, hospice inpatient facility, or hospital so that a family member or friend who is the patient's caregiver can rest or take some time off.
Rural health clinic
A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that provides health care services in rural areas where there is a shortage of health care services.
Note
This glossary explains terms in the Medicare program, but it isn't a legal document. The official Medicare program provisions are found in the relevant laws, regulations, and rulings.