Sec. 31.04.17.02. Definitions

A. In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B. Terms Defined.

(1) "Carrier" means:

(a) An insurer;

(b) A nonprofit health service plan;

(c) A dental plan organization; or

(d) A fraternal benefit society.

(2) "Commissioner" means the Maryland Insurance Commissioner.

(3) Contract on an Insert Page Basis.

(a) "Contract on an insert page basis" means a contract that is composed of insert pages, with each insert page being identified with a unique form number.

(b) "Contract on an insert page basis" does not include a contract that contains an insert that is identified with a unique form number and is longer than one page.

(4) Contract on a Sectional Basis.

(a) "Contract on a sectional basis" means a contract that is composed of sections, with each section being identified with a unique form number.

(b) "Contract on a sectional basis" includes a contract that contains sections that are only one page long.

(5) "Form" means:

(a) A policy;

(b) A contract;

(c) A certificate;

(d) A rider;

(e) An endorsement; or

(f) An application.

(6) "Guaranteed renewable contract" means a health insurance contract that:

(a) Permits the insured to renew the contract by timely payment of premiums:

(i) Until 65 years old or until eligibility for Medicare; or

(ii) In the case of a contract issued after 60 years old, for at least 5 years from its date of issue; and

(b) Does not permit the carrier to make any unilateral change in any provision of the contract during the guaranteed renewability period, except that the carrier may make changes in premium rates by class.

(7) "Health insurance" has the meaning stated in Insurance Article, §1-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(8) "Insured" means an individual covered under a form.

(9) "Insurer" has the meaning stated in Insurance Article, §1-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(10) "Life insurance" has the meaning stated in Insurance Article, §1-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(11) "Noncancellable contract" means a health insurance contract that:

(a) Permits the insured to renew the contract by timely payment of premiums:

(i) Until 65 years old or eligibility for Medicare; or

(ii) In the case of a contract issued after 60 years old, for at least 5 years from its date of issue;

(b) Does not permit the carrier to make any unilateral change in any provisions of the contract during the period the contract is in force; and

(c) Does not permit the carrier to change the premium rate during the period the contract is in force.

(12) "Policyholder" means the individual or entity to whom the contract is issued.