(a) For purposes of this section:
(1) “Carrier” means any entity that provides health insurance in this State. “Carrier” includes an insurance company, health service corporation, health maintenance organization, and any other entity providing a plan of health insurance or health benefits subject to state insurance regulation. “Carrier” also includes any third-party administrator or other entity that adjusts, administers, or settles claims in connection with health benefit plans.
(2) “Carrier” does not mean an entity that provides a plan of health insurance or health benefits designed for issuance to persons eligible for coverage under Titles XVIII, XIX, and XXI of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. §§ 1395 et seq., 1396 et seq. and 1397 et seq.), known as Medicare, Medicaid, or any other similar coverage under state or federal governmental plans.
(b) Regardless of network status, a carrier shall permit a provider a minimum of 180 days from the date a covered service is rendered to submit a claim for reimbursement. Any contract between a carrier and provider that prohibits a provider from submitting a claim beyond the minimum time limit required under this section shall not be deemed a violation of this section.