<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8'?>
<regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" citation="COMAR 10.07.11.08" title_num="10" subtitle_num="07" chapter_num="11" heading="Policy Formulation.">
  <paragraph num="A.">
    <text>The HMO shall have written policies governing the provision of the HMO services according to stated objectives of the HMO. The policies shall be developed in consultation with the executive officer, representative professionals, including one or more physicians, nursing service personnel associated with the service, and one or more enrollee representative or representatives. Policies shall be approved by the governing authority and reviewed and revised annually as required. These approvals shall be affirmed in writing and dated by an authorized representative of the governing authority.</text>
  </paragraph>
  <paragraph num="B.">
    <text>Patient Care Policies. The policies shall cover at least the following:</text>
    <paragraph num="(1)">
      <text>Inpatient admission and discharge policies;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(2)">
      <text>Physician (Independent Practice Association) services, including medical staff organization;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(3)">
      <text>Provision of or arrangements for other services not directly provided by the HMO;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="(4)">
      <text>Continuity and availability of care through an established referral mechanism and ongoing contract with other health services providers.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </paragraph>
</regulation>