The TPA provides claims services and possibly other services that insurance carriers traditionally provide. Which description best fits this role?

• A. An independent administrator contracted to handle claims
• B. A regulatory body
• C. A third-party group that replaces the insurer
• D. A service offered by the insured but paid by the carrier

Answer: (A)

This describes the role of a third-party administrator contracted to handle claims for an insurer. A TPA is an independent entity brought in by the insurer to manage claims processing, handling, and often related services such as investigations or medical management, while the insurer retains policy terms and overall responsibility for coverage. Because of this setup, the insurer can rely on specialized administrative expertise without giving up control over underwriting or risk. The other options don’t fit: a regulatory body is about oversight, not claims handling; a group that replaces the insurer would mean the insurer is out of the picture, which a TPA does not do; and a service paid by the carrier but provided by the insured describes a different arrangement.