### Question
How is the "network plan" defined?


### Answer
The term **network plan** is defined in *29 U.S.C. § 1191b* as follows -

> health insurance coverage offered by a health insurance issuer under which the financing and delivery of medical care (including items and services paid for as medical care) are provided, in whole or in part, through a defined set of providers under contract with the issuer

#### Citation:
  - *29 U.S.C. § 1191b*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 18-EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY PROGRAM > SUBCHAPTER I-PROTECTION OF EMPLOYEE BENEFIT RIGHTS > Subtitle B-Regulatory Provisions > part 7-group health plan requirements > Subpart C-General Provisions**

