(a) A network that contracts with a provider or providers practicing individually or as a group is not, because of the contract or arrangement, considered to have entered into a conspiracy in restraint of trade in violation of Chapter 15, Business & Commerce Code.
(b) Notwithstanding any other law, a person who contracts under this chapter with one or more providers in the process of conducting activities that are permitted by law but that do not require a certificate of authority or other authorization under this code is not, because of the contract, considered to have entered into a conspiracy in restraint of trade in violation of Chapter 15, Business & Commerce Code.
(c) A network is subject to Chapters 441 and 443 and is considered an insurer or insurance company, as applicable, for purposes of those laws.