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

(1) Enhancement of the quality of care provided to citizens of the State;

(2) Preservation of hospitals or health care providers and related facilities in geographical proximity to the communities traditionally served by those facilities;

(3) Gains in the cost efficiency of services provided by the hospitals or others;

(4) Improvements in the use of hospital or other health care resources and equipment;

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

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

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

(1) The extent of any likely adverse impact on the ability of health maintenance organizations, preferred provider organizations, managed health care service agents or other health care payors to negotiate optimal payment and service arrangements with hospitals or health care providers;

(2) The extent of any disadvantages attributable to reduction in competition among covered entities or other persons furnishing goods or services to, or in competition with, covered entities that is likely to result directly or indirectly from the cooperative agreement;