In health insurance, who is referred to as a "beneficiary"?

A beneficiary in health insurance is defined as the individual who is entitled to receive benefits under a policy. This person typically is the one who benefits from the coverage provided by the insurance, which can include various forms of healthcare services, payments for medical expenses, or other specified advantages as outlined in the policy agreement. The policyholder may be the beneficiary themselves or they may designate another individual to receive benefits.

Understanding this term is critical because it clarifies who can file claims and receive payments for covered services or emergencies. In insurance documents, the rights and responsibilities of the beneficiary are often detailed, including what benefits they are entitled to receive. This context is vital for anyone involved in health insurance to navigate claims and understand their roles within insurance agreements.