(a) A birth center shall link and integrate its services with at least one birthing hospital with a minimum of a Level 1 perinatal designation.
     (b) A birth center shall have an established agreement with a nearby receiving birthing hospital with policies and procedures for timely transfer of maternal and neonatal patients. The agreement shall include a determination of maternal and neonatal conditions necessitating consultation and referral. This should include plans for communication with the receiving hospital before and after transfer.