A. In evaluating the potential benefits of a cooperative agreement, the department reviewing agencies shall consider whether one or more of the following benefits may result from the cooperative agreement:

(1) Enhancement of the quality of hospital or nonprofit mental health care, mental health care or related care provided to Maine citizens;

(2) Preservation of hospital or nonprofit mental health care provider and related facilities in geographical proximity to the communities traditionally served by those facilities;

(3) Gains Lower costs and gains in the cost efficiency of services provided by the hospitals or nonprofit mental health care providers involved;

(4) Improvements in the utilization of hospital or nonprofit mental health care provider resources and equipment;

(5) Avoidance of duplication of hospital or nonprofit mental health care resources; and

(6) Continuation or establishment of needed educational programs for health care professionals and providers.

In any certificate for a merger issued under this chapter, the department reviewing agencies shall make specific findings as to the nature and extent of any likely benefit found under this paragraph.

B. The department's reviewing agencies' evaluation of any disadvantages attributable to any reduction in competition likely to result from the agreement may include, but need not be limited to, the following factors:

(1) The extent of any likely adverse impact on the ability of health maintenance organizations, preferred