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Capitation: meaning, definitions and examples

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capitation

 

[ ˌkæpɪˈteɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

healthcare payment

Capitation is a payment model used in healthcare where a physician or a healthcare provider is paid a set amount for each enrolled patient, regardless of the number of services provided. This system encourages cost-effective treatment and preventive care, aligning the interests of healthcare providers with patient outcomes. It contrasts with fee-for-service models, where providers are paid based on the volume of services rendered. Capitation is commonly used in health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and can significantly influence healthcare delivery and resource allocation.

Synonyms

fixed payment, flat fee, per capita payment.

Examples of usage

  • The practice adopted a capitation model to reduce costs.
  • Capitation payments incentivize preventative care.
  • Many HMOs operate under a capitation payment system.
  • Providers receive a fixed amount per patient under capitation.

Translations

Translations of the word "capitation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 capitação

🇮🇳 कैपिटेशन

🇩🇪 Kopfpauschale

🇮🇩 kapitasi

🇺🇦 капітація

🇵🇱 kapitacja

🇯🇵 キャピテーション

🇫🇷 capitation

🇪🇸 capitación

🇹🇷 kapitülasyon

🇰🇷 인구당 요금

🇸🇦 رأس المال

🇨🇿 kapitace

🇸🇰 kapitácia

🇨🇳 人头税

🇸🇮 kapitacija

🇮🇸 höfuðhöft

🇰🇿 басы мөлшері

🇬🇪 კაპიტაცია

🇦🇿 kapitasiya

🇲🇽 capitación

Etymology

The term 'capitation' originates from the Latin word 'caput,' meaning 'head.' Historically, this term referred to a tax levied per individual or head. The concept of capitation as a payment method in healthcare emerged from early health insurance models in the 20th century, primarily in the United States. It was formally adopted as a means to finance healthcare services in the mid-20th century, with the rise of managed care organizations. As these organizations sought efficient ways to provide and control healthcare costs, capitation became a prominent feature of their payment structures. Over time, the practice has evolved and been adapted by various healthcare systems worldwide, becoming a critical component of health management strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes while controlling costs.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,076, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.