The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

1. (1) Application--An initial filing submitted by a physicians' representative on behalf of a negotiation group seeking OAG approval to engage in communications with competitors and/or joint negotiations with a health benefit plan pursuant to the Insurance Code, Chapter 29 and this chapter.
2. (2) Fee-related negotiation--A joint negotiation involving one or more of the terms and conditions listed in the Insurance Code, Article 29.05.
3. (3) Health benefit plan--A plan described by the Insurance Code, Article 29.03.
4. (4) Integrated practice group--A group of non-competing physicians, including one or more participating physicians, who are clinically integrated and/or share substantial financial risk.
5. (5) Negotiation group--A group of participating physicians that is seeking, has sought, and/or has obtained OAG approval to engage in communications with competitors and/or engage in joint negotiations with a health benefit plan pursuant to the Insurance Code, Chapter 29 and this chapter.
6. (6) Non-fee-related negotiation--A joint negotiation involving none of the terms and conditions listed in the Insurance Code, Article 29.05.
7. (7) OAG--Office of the Attorney General.
8. (8) Participating physician--A member of a negotiation group.
9. (9) Person--An individual, association, corporation, or any other legal entity.
10. (10) Physicians' representative or representative--A third party, including a member of the physicians who will engage in joint negotiations, who is authorized by physicians to negotiate on their behalf with health benefit plans over contractual terms and conditions affecting those physicians.
11. (11) Product--A type of health benefit plan (e.g., a commercial HMO, a commercial PPO, or an indemnity plan).
12. (12) TDI--The Texas Department of Insurance.

Source Note:The provisions of this §58.3 adopted to be effective June 6, 2000, 25 TexReg 5301.