Glossary

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P

Permanent Resident Alien (Immigrant):
This is an alien admitted to the United States as a lawful permanent resident. Permanent residents are also commonly referred to as immigrants; however, the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) broadly defines an immigrant as any alien in the United States, except one legally admitted under specific nonimmigrant categories (INA section 101(a)(15)). An illegal alien who entered the United States without inspection, for example, would be strictly defined as an immigrant under the INA but is not a permanent resident alien. Lawful permanent residents are legally accorded the privilege of residing permanently in the United States. They may be issued immigrant visas by the Department of State overseas or adjusted to permanent resident status by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in the United States.
Source: U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA):
On August 22, President Clinton signed into law "The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996,” a comprehensive bipartisan welfare reform plan that changes the nation's welfare system into one that requires work in exchange for time-limited assistance. The law contains strong work requirements, a performance bonus to reward states for moving welfare recipients into jobs, state maintenance of effort requirements, comprehensive child support enforcement, and supports for families moving from welfare to work - including increased funding for child care and guaranteed medical coverage.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families

POW (Prisoner of War):
A person captured in war, especially a member of the armed forces of a nation who is taken by the enemy during combat.
Source: Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 2003

Primary Care Doctor:
A doctor who is trained to give basic care. A primary care doctor is the doctor seen first for most health problems. He or she also may talk with other doctors and health care providers in order to make referrals. In many Medicare managed care plans, for example, you must see your primary care doctor before you see any other health care provider.
Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Priority Group/Level:
After applying for enrollment in the VA health care program, one’s eligibility is verified. Based on specific eligibility status, the individual will be assigned a priority group ranging from 1-8, with 1 as the highest priority for enrollment. However, under the Medical Benefits Package, the same services are generally available to all enrolled veterans.
Source: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Provider:
A doctor, hospital, health care professional or health care facility.
Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services