The purpose of this Article is to protect, subject to certain limitations, the persons specified in paragraph (1) of Section 531.03 against failure in the performance of contractual obligations, under life, health, and annuity policies, plans, or contracts and health or medical care service contracts specified in paragraph (2) of Section 531.03, due to the impairment or insolvency of the member insurer issuing such policies, plans, or contracts. To provide this protection, (1) an association of member insurers is created to enable the guaranty of payment of benefits and of continuation of coverages, (2) members of the Association are subject to assessment to provide funds to carry out the purpose of this Article, and (3) the Association is authorized to assist the Director, in the prescribed manner, in the detection and prevention of member insurer impairments or insolvencies.