Definition of "Covered Expenses"

Health care charges that an insurer will consider paying under the terms of a health insurance policy.

Most insurance plans, whether they are fee-for-service, HMOs, or PPOs, do not pay for all services. Some may not pay for prescription drugs. Others may not pay for mental health care. Covered services are those medical procedures the insurer agrees to pay for. They are listed in the policy.

In health insurance, reimbursement for an insured's medically-related expenses, including, but not limited to surgery, medicines, hospitalization, ambulance service, and X-rays.