; (D) continuity of service; (E) patient satisfaction, including waiting time and access to services; and (F) performance standards, including organization, facilities, structure of services, efficiency of operation, and outcome in palliation, improvement of health, stabilization, cure, or rehabilitation. (3) Transition in application If the Secretary provides for additional requirements for providers under this subsection, any such additional requirement shall be implemented in a manner that provides for a reasonable period during which a previously qualified provider is permitted to meet such an additional requirement. (4) Ability to provide services With respect to any entity or provider certified to provide services described in section 201(a)(7), the Secretary may not prohibit such entity or provider from participating for reasons other than its ability to provide such services. (c) Federal providers Any provider qualified to provide health care services through the Department of Veterans Affairs or Indian Health Service is a qualifying provider under this section with respect to any individual who qualifies for such services under applicable Federal law. 303. Use of private contracts (a) In general Subject to the provisions of this subsection, nothing in this Act shall prohibit an institutional or individual provider from entering into a private contract with an enrolled individual for any item or service— (1) for which no claim for payment is to be submitted under this Act, and (2) for which the provider receives— (A) no reimbursement under this Act directly or on a capitated basis, and (B) receives no amount for such item or service from an organization which receives reimbursement for such items or service under this Act directly or on a capitated basis. (b) Beneficiary protections (1) In general Subsection (a) shall not apply to any contract unless— (A) the contract is in writing and is signed by the beneficiary before any item or service is provided pursuant to the contract