1.    The department of health and human services shall establish criteria to be used in selecting public and private entities for participation in a program. The criteria must include:

a.    The number of health care professionals, by specified field, already providing services in the area; b.    Access to health care services in the area; and c.    The level of support from the area.

2.    The department of health and human services may consult with health care and social service providers, advocacy groups, governmental entities, and others in establishing criteria and evaluating needs based on the criteria.

3.    An entity may not be selected for participation unless it contractually commits to provide matching funds equal to the amount required for a loan repayment program in accordance with section 43-12.3-06.