(a) The center, when authorized by the commissioner, may participate in local, regional or state-wide provider networks, preferred provider organizations, physician-hospital organizations or other similar organizations.

(b) Participation by the center in provider networks, preferred provider organizations, physician-hospital organizations or other similar organizations, when authorized by the commissioner, may include (1) membership in a network organization; (2) participation in network or organization contracts, cooperative agreements, and joint ventures; (3) participation in the governance of networks and organizations; and (4) payment of reasonable network or organization dues, fees and assessments.