provide benefits for residents in positions under paragraph (1), regardless of whether they have been assigned in a Department facility. (4) Parameters for location, affiliate sponsor, and duration When determining characteristics of residency positions under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider the extent to which there is a clinical need for providers, as determined by the following: (A) The ratio of veterans to health care providers of the Department for a standardized geographic area surrounding a facility, including a separate ratio for general practitioners and specialists. (B) Whether the local community is medically underserved. (C) Whether the facility is located in a rural or remote area. (D) Such other criteria as the Secretary considers important in determining which facilities are not adequately serving area veterans. (5) Parameters for types of specialties When determining the types of specialties to be included in residency positions under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider the following: (A) The types of specialties that improve the quality and coverage of medical services provided to veterans. (B) The range of clinical specialties covered by providers in standardized geographic areas surrounding facilities. (C) Whether the specialty is included in the most recent staffing shortage determination of the Department under section 7412 of title 38, United States Code. (b) Application To participate To participate as a resident in one of the positions increased under subsection (a)(1), an individual shall submit to the Secretary an application therefor together with an agreement described in subsection (d) under which the participant agrees to serve a period of obligated service in the Veterans Health Administration as provided in the agreement in return for payment of stipend and benefit support as provided in the agreement. (c) Selection (1) In general An individual becomes a participant in a residency program under this section upon the Secretary's approval of the individual's