Key insurance terms that start with "R"

An addition to your health insurance policy that adds coverage for specific services or conditions. For example, you might add a rider for dental or vision coverage. Riders typically cost extra but give you expanded coverage for services your base plan doesn't include.

Care to help you recover from injury, surgery, or illness through physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other treatments. Insurance may cover rehabilitation services if they're medically necessary and prescribed by your doctor. You may need prior authorization.

A request from your primary care doctor to see a specialist or receive other care. In HMO and POS plans, you need a referral to see specialists; your PCP sends it to your insurance company. PPO plans usually don't require referrals. Your plan's rules determine whether referrals are required.

Surgery to restore the function or appearance of body parts damaged by injury, illness, or birth defect. The ACA requires health plans to cover reconstructive surgery when medically necessary, including surgery following mastectomy for breast cancer. This is different from cosmetic surgery, which insurance usually doesn't cover.