The following words and phrases when used in this act shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

“Balance billing.” To charge or collect from a beneficiary of health insurance under Title XVIII of the Social Security Act (Public Law 74-271, 42 U.S.C. § 301 et seq.), known as the Medicare Program, an amount in excess of the reasonable charge for the service provided, as determined by the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services.

“Healing arts.” The science and skill of diagnosis, prevention or treatment, in any manner whatsoever, of disease or any ailment of the human body.

“Health care practitioner.” An individual who is authorized to practice some component of the healing arts by a license, permit, certificate or registration issued by a Commonwealth licensing agency or board. The term includes, but is not limited to, a medical doctor, an osteopathic physician, a chiropractor, a dentist, an optometrist, a pharmacist, a physical therapist, a podiatrist, a professional nurse and a psychologist.