§ 27-74-7. Examinations and investigations. (a) The commissioner may examine or investigate the business and affairs of any discount medical plan organization to protect the interests of the residents of this state based on the following reasons, including, but not limited to, complaint indices, recent complaints, information from other states, or as the commissioner deems necessary.

(b) An examination or investigation conducted as provided this section shall be performed in accordance with the provisions of chapter 13.1 of title 27 of the general laws.

(c) In additional to the examination powers provided for in subsection (b) of this section, the commissioner may:

(1) Order any discount medical plan organization or applicant that operates a discount medical plan organization to produce any records, books, files, advertising and solicitation materials or other information; and

(2) Take statements under oath to determine whether the discount medical plan organization or applicant is in violation of the law or is acting contrary to the public interest.

(d) The discount medical plan organization or applicant that is the subject of the examination or investigation shall pay the expenses incurred in conducting the examination or investigation, including but not limited to the expenses of attorneys, consultants and other experts. Failure by the discount medical plan organization or applicant to promptly pay the expenses is grounds for denial of a certificate of registration to operate as a discount medical plan organization or revocation of a certificate of registration to operate as a discount medical plan organization. Such expenses, if not paid, may be recovered through a civil action filed in the superior court.

History of Section. (P.L. 2010, ch. 156, § 1; P.L. 2010, ch. 158, § 1.)