### Question
How is the "specified item or service" defined?


### Answer
The term **specified item or service** is defined in *29 U.S.C. § 1185e* as follows -

> an item or service that has low utilization or significant variation in costs (such as when furnished as part of a complex treatment), as specified by the Secretary

#### Citation:
  - *29 U.S.C. § 1185e*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 18-EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY PROGRAM > SUBCHAPTER I-PROTECTION OF EMPLOYEE BENEFIT RIGHTS > Subtitle B-Regulatory Provisions > part 7-group health plan requirements > Subpart B-Other Requirements**

