Definition and Meaning
Malinger: (Verb) To deliberately exaggerate or feign illness or injury to escape duty or work or to continue receiving benefits.
Etymology
The term “malinger” originates from the French word “malingre,” meaning “sickly” or “weak,” and was assimilated into the English language in the early 19th century.
Background
Malingering involves fabricating or overstating physical or psychological symptoms. In the insurance sector, this practice is a fraudulent scheme where individuals false represent the extent of their incapacity. Such actions lead to unmerited financial gains from disability benefits and can compromise insurance pools and premiums.
Key Takeaways
- Definition: Malingering is the feigning or exaggeration of disability to collect insurance benefits without a legitimate claim.
- Detection: Insurers may use a mix of medical examinations, claim history, surveillance, and psychological evaluations to distinguish between genuine claims and malingering.
- Implications: Malingering can lead to unnecessary financial strain on insurance companies, which could result in higher premiums for policyholders and potential legal consequences for those found guilty.
Similarities and Differences
Similarities with Fraudulent Claims: Both actions involve deception for financial gain. Differences from Genuine Claims: Genuine claims are based on accurate, truthful medical conditions that require benefits.
Synonyms
- Feign
- Pretend
- Fake
- Shirk
Antonyms
- Honest
- Genuine
- Truthful
Related Terms
- Insurance Fraud: (Noun) Illegal act on the part of the buyer or seller of an insurance contract.
- Disability Insurance: (Noun) A type of insurance policy that provides income to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability.
- Misrepresentation: (Noun) The act of giving a false or misleading account.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of malingering?
Clinical interviews, inconsistencies in medical records, performance tests, and sometimes surveillance are methods used to detect malingering.
What is the impact of malingering on genuine claimants?
Malingering can result in stricter screening procedures and more extensive documentation requirements for genuine claimants, potentially delaying their benefits.
Are there legal consequences for malingering?
Yes, malingering can be prosecuted as insurance fraud, leading to legal penalties including fines and imprisonment.
Exciting Facts
- Some insurers have specialized units dedicated solely to identifying malingering and fraud.
- Psychological assessments are often used to gauge honesty in claims related to mental health.
Quote from Notable Authority
“Honesty is the best policy. If I lose mine honor, I lose myself.” – William Shakespeare
Humorous Saying
“Feigning illness is the only health insurance premium you don’t want to pay.”
Government Regulations
- False Claims Act: U.S. legislation that imposes liabilities on individuals and companies (typically federal contractors) who defraud governmental programs.
- Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 1033/1034: Federal statutory provisions categorizing certain types of insurance fraud—including false reporting and embezzlement—as felonies.
Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Studies
- “The Handbook of Insurance Fraud: Detection, Prevention, and Investigation” by F.A. Redelinghuys.
- “Insurance Ethics: For Insurance Professionals and Their Clients” by Marvin Feldman.
- “Faking It: The Case against Insurance Fraud and Deception” by Lisa Burnell Banks.
Remember, it takes real character to live honestly and genuinely—don’t let a moment of deceit cloud your integrity. Until next time, stay true to yourself and let insurance work for the honest, not the cunning.
©️ Johnathan Adler 2023
