2013 Maryland Code
INSURANCE
§ 15-215 - Payment of claims

§15-215.

(a) Each policy of health insurance shall contain the following provision:

“Payment of claims: Indemnity for loss of life will be payable in accordance with the beneficiary designation and the provisions respecting such payment which may be prescribed herein and effective at the time of payment. If no such designation or provision is then effective, such indemnity shall be payable to the estate of the insured. Any other accrued indemnities unpaid at the insured’s death may, at the option of the insurer, be paid either to such beneficiary or to such estate. All other indemnities will be payable to the insured.”

(b) (1) At the option of the insurer, a policy may include either or both of the provisions set forth in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection with the provision set forth in subsection (a) of this section.

(2) “If any indemnity of this policy shall be payable to the estate of the insured, or to an insured or beneficiary who is under eighteen years of age or otherwise not competent to give a valid release, the insurer may pay such indemnity, up to an amount not exceeding $ .......... (insert an amount which shall not exceed $1,000), to any relative by blood or connection by marriage of the insured or beneficiary who is deemed by the insurer to be equitably entitled thereto. Any payment made by the insurer in good faith pursuant to this provision shall fully discharge the insurer to the extent of such payment.”

(3) “Subject to any written direction of the insured in the application or otherwise all or a portion of any indemnities provided by this policy on account of hospital, nursing, medical or surgical services may, at the insurer’s option and unless the insured requests otherwise in writing not later than the time of filing proof of such loss, be paid directly to the hospital or person rendering such services; but it is not required that the service be rendered by a particular hospital or person.”