5. Maintain a protocol that shall facilitate communication to and from providers and the Contractor, and which shall include, but not be limited to, a provider newsletter and periodic provider meetings; 6. Except as otherwise required or authorized by CMS, EOHHS or by operation of law, ensure that providers receive 30 days advance notice in writing of policy and procedure changes, and maintain a process to provide education and training for providers regarding any changes that may be implemented, prior to the policy and procedure changes taking effect; and 7. Work in collaboration with providers to actively improve the quality of care provided to Enrollees, consistent with the Quality Improvement Goals and all other requirements of this Contract. B. Proximity Access Requirements The Contractor must demonstrate annually that its Provider Network meets the stricter of the following standards: For Medicare medical providers and facilities, time, distance and minimum number standards updated annually on the CMS website ()); For Medicare pharmacy providers, time, distance and minimum number as required in Appendix F, Article II, Section I and 42 C.F.R. §423.120; or Within a 15-mile or 30 minute radius from the Enrollee’s ZIP code of residence: At least two PCPs; b. Two hospitals (when feasible); and
5. Maintain a protocol that shall facilitate communication to and from providers and the Contractor, and which shall include, but not be limited to, a provider newsletter and periodic provider meetings; 6. Except as otherwise required or authorized by CMS, EOHHS or by operation of law, ensure that providers receive 30 days advance notice in writing of policy and procedure changes, and maintain a process to provide education and training for providers regarding any changes that may be implemented, prior to the policy and procedure changes taking effect; and 7. Work in collaboration with providers to actively improve the quality of care provided to Enrollees, consistent with the Quality Improvement Goals and all other requirements of this Contract. B. Proximity Access Requirements The Contractor must demonstrate annually that its Provider Network meets the stricter of the following standards: For Medicare medical providers and facilities, time, distance and minimum number standards updated annually on the CMS website ()); For Medicare pharmacy providers, time, distance and minimum number as required in Appendix F, Article II, Section I and 42 C.F.R. §423.120; or Within a 15-mile or 30 minute radius from the Enrollee’s ZIP code of residence: At least two PCPs; b. Two hospitals (when feasible); and