In evaluating applications for a health facility as defined under section 22205(1)(c) in a comparative review, the department shall include participation in title XIX of the social security act, chapter 531, 49 Stat. 620, 42 U.S.C. 1396 to 1396r-6 and 1396r-8 to 1396v, as a distinct criterion, weighted as very important, and determine the degree to which an application meets this criterion based on the extent of participation in the medicaid program.