The following words and terms when used in this subchapter shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

1. (1) Group health benefit plan--As specified in the Insurance Code §38.352, a preferred provider benefit plan as defined by the Insurance Code §1301.001 or an evidence of coverage for a health care plan that provides basic health care services as defined by the Insurance Code §843.002. The term does not include a health maintenance organization plan providing routine dental or vision services as a single health care service plan or a preferred provider benefit plan providing routine vision services as a single health care service plan.
2. (2) Institutional provider--An institution providing health care services, including but not limited to hospitals, other licensed inpatient centers, ambulatory surgical centers, skilled nursing centers, and residential treatment centers.
3. (3) Physician--Any individual licensed to practice medicine in this state and, with regard to a health maintenance organization, as defined in the Insurance Code §843.002(22).
4. (4) Provider--Any practitioner, institutional provider, or other person or organization that furnishes health care services and that is licensed or otherwise authorized to practice in this state, other than a physician.
5. (5) Reporting period--The six-month interval of time for which a plan or health benefit plan issuer must submit data, beginning each January 1 and ending the following June 30.

Source Note:The provisions of this §21.4503 adopted to be effective January 9, 2011, 35 TexReg 11868.