### Question
How does the law define medical or surgical benefits?


### Answer
Under *42 U.S.C. § 300gg*, **medical or surgical benefits** is defined as:

> benefits with respect to medical or surgical services, as defined under the terms of the plan or coverage (as the case may be), but does not include mental health or substance use disorder benefits

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 300gg*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 6A-PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE > SUBCHAPTER XXV-REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE > Part A-Individual and Group Market Reforms > subpart 2-exclusion of plans; enforcement; preemption**

