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. (D) The most recent market area assessment performed under section 1730B(c) of title 38, United States Code, as added by section 102. (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 application under subsection (b) and the Secretary's acceptance of the agreement under subsection (d) (if required). (2) Notice Upon the Secretary's approval of an individual's participation in the program under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall promptly notify the individual of that approval. Such notice shall be in writing. (d) Agreement (1) In general An agreement between the Secretary and a resident in a position under subsection (a)(1) shall be in writing and shall be signed by the resident containing such terms as the Secretary may specify. (2) Requirements The agreement must specify the terms of the service obligation resulting from participating as a resident under this section, including by requiring a service obligation equal to the number of years of stipend and benefit support. (e) Conditions of employment The Secretary may prescribe the conditions of employment of persons appointed to positions under subsection (a)(1), including necessary training, and the customary amount and terms of pay for such positions during the period of such employment and training. (f) Obligated service (1) In