Document:

<PAGE>   1
                                                                   EXHIBIT 10.25

           ARIZONA HEALTH CARE COST CONTAINMENT SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION
                        DIVISION OF BUSINESS AND FINANCE
                               CONTRACT AMENDMENT

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
===================================================================================================================================
AMENDMENT NUMBER:                   CONTRACT NUMBER:             EFFECTIVE DATE OF AMENDMENT:         PROGRAM:
             09                     YH8-0001-05                  OCTOBER 1, 1999                      OMC
===================================================================================================================================
<S>                                 <C>                          <C>                                  <C>
CONTRACTOR'S NAME AND ADDRESS:
HEALTH CHOICE AZ
1600 W. BROADWAY SUITE 260
TEMPE AZ 85282-1502

===================================================================================================================================
PURPOSE OF AMENDMENT: To extend the term of the contract for one year and to amend Sections C, D and Attachments B, F and H.

===================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>
THE CONTRACT REFERENCED ABOVE IS AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

         A.   EXTENSION OF CONTRACT: In accordance with Section D, Paragraph
              50, Term of Contract and Option to Renew, this contract is
              extended for the period 10/1/99 - 9/30/00. The Contractor's
              response affirming or declining the extension must be received by
              AHCCCSA no later than 3:00 PM MST, September 17, 1999.

         B.   CONTRACT RESTATEMENT: This amendment consists of a complete
              restatement of Sections B, C, D and Attachments B, F, and H. No
              changes were made to Section E and Attachment A, which are
              provided for your information.

         C.   By signing this contract amendment, the Contractor is (1)
              agreeing to perform for an additional year according to the terms
              of the contract as amended, and (2) agreeing to the new and
              changed requirements contained herein.

NOTE: Please sign, date both and return one to:  Doug Peeples, MD 5700
                                                 AHCCCS Contracts and Purchasing
                                                 701 E Jefferson Street
                                                 Phoenix AZ 85034

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
===================================================================================================================================
EXCEPT AS PROVIDED FOR HEREIN, ALL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE ORIGINAL CONTRACT NOT HERETOFORE CHANGED AND/OR AMENDED REMAIN
UNCHANGED AND IN FULL EFFECT.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF THE PARTIES HERETO SIGN THEIR NAMES IN AGREEMENT
===================================================================================================================================
<S>                                                           <C>
Signature of Health Choice AZ Authorized Representative:      Signature of AHCCCSA Contracting Officer:

/s/ Pat Levin                                                 /s/ Michael Veit
===================================================================================================================================
Typed Name:   PAT LEVIN                                       Typed Name:       MICHAEL VEIT

===================================================================================================================================
Title:        PRESIDENT                                       Title:            CONTRACTS & PURCHASING
                                                                                ADMINISTRATOR
===================================================================================================================================
Date:                                                         DATE:
              9/24/99                                                           AUGUST 25, 1999
===================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   2

          ARIZONA HEALTH CARE COST CONTAINMENT SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION
                        DIVISION OF BUSINESS AND FINANCE
                               CONTRACT AMENDMENT

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
===================================================================================================================================
AMENDMENT NUMBER:                   CONTRACT NUMBER:             EFFECTIVE DATE OF AMENDMENT:         PROGRAM:
10                                  YH8-0001-05                  OCTOBER 1, 1999                      OMC
===================================================================================================================================
<S>                                 <C>                          <C>                                  <C>
CONTRACTOR'S NAME AND ADDRESS:
HEALTH CHOICE AZ
1600 W. BROADWAY SUITE 260
TEMPE AZ 85282-1136

===================================================================================================================================
PURPOSE OF AMENDMENT: To adjust capitation rates effective October 1, 1999.

===================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>

THE CONTRACT REFERENCED ABOVE IS AMENDED AS FOLLOWS:

CAPITATION RATES: The Contractor shall provide services as described in this
contract. In consideration for these services, the Contractor will be paid as
shown below for the term October 1, 1999 through September 3, 2000 (CYR 00).

                                CAPITATION RATES
                             (Per member per month)

                 See attached table for the Contractor's rates

NOTE: Please sign, date both and return one to:  Doug Peeples, MD 5700
                                                 AHCCCS Contracts and Purchasing
                                                 701 E Jefferson Street
                                                 Phoenix AZ 85034

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
===================================================================================================================================
EXCEPT AS PROVIDED FOR HEREIN, ALL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE ORIGINAL CONTRACT NOT HERETOFORE CHANGED AND/OR AMENDED REMAIN
UNCHANGED AND IN FULL EFFECT.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF THE PARTIES HERETO SIGN THEIR NAMES IN AGREEMENT
===================================================================================================================================
<S>                                                            <C>
Signature of Health Choice AZ Authorized Representative:       Signature of AHCCCSA Contracting Officer:

/s/ Pat Levin                                                  /s/ Michael Veit
===================================================================================================================================
Typed Name:       PAT LEVIN                                    Typed Name:       MICHAEL VEIT

===================================================================================================================================
Title:            PRESIDENT                                    Title:            CONTRACTS & PURCHASING
                                                                                 ADMINISTRATOR
===================================================================================================================================
Date:             9/8/99                                       Date:             SEPTEMBER 1, 1999

===================================================================================================================================
</TABLE>

<PAGE>   3

HEALTH CHOICE ARIZONA

The new capitation rates effective 10/1/99 are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       TANF          TANF         TANF           TANF         TANF           SSI            SSI
GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA              <1, M/F       1-13, /F      14-44, F      14-44, M      45+, M/F       W/MED         W/O MED
-----------------------              --------      --------      --------      --------      --------      --------      --------

<S>                                  <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
GSA #10 (Pima):
                   Prospective:      $ 309.42      $  62.36      $ 108.53      $  88.76      $ 209.96      $ 139.08      $ 328.27
                           PPC:      $1164.82      $  32.70      $ 136.50      $  76.91      $ 180.25      $  14.50      $  61.79
                     Kids Care:      $ 270.86      $  70.17      $ 135.29      $  80.71           N/A           N/A           N/A

GSA #12 (Maricopa:)
                   Prospective:      $ 325.49      $  64.40      $  98.84      $  91.64      $ 223.13      $ 153.93      $ 324.90
                           PPC:      $1164.82      $  32.70      $ 136.50      $  76.91      $ 180.25      $  14.50      $  61.79
                     Kids Care:      $ 281.83      $  72.23      $ 140.17      $  81.01           N/A           N/A           N/A

<CAPTION>
                                                                 DELIVERY
                                      MN/MI          SFP           KICK
                                     --------      --------      ---------
<S>                                  <C>           <C>           <C>
GSA #10 (Pima):
                   Prospective:      $ 419.84      $  18.84      $4,929.51
                           PPC:      $ 581.32           N/A            N/A
                     Kids Care:           N/A           N/A      $4,929.51

GSA #12 (Maricopa:)
                   Prospective:      $ 516.44      $  19.68      $5,241.86
                           PPC:      $ 410.48           N/A            N/A
                     Kids Care:           N/A           N/A      $5,241.81
</TABLE>

PMPM amounts are based on a $35,000/$15,000 (MN/MI) reinsurance deductible
level. PPC MN/MI rate is a daily rate.

<PAGE>   4

ADDITIONAL REIMBURSEMENT

For the contract term October 1, 1999 through September 30, 2000, the
Contractor will be paid an HIV/AIDS supplemental payment of $634.50 PMPM for
members receiving approved protease inhibitors and associated lab work related
to their treatment for HIV/AIDS.

<PAGE>   5

                          SECTION B - CAPITATION RATES

The Contractor shall provide services as described in this contract. In
consideration for these services, the Contractor will be paid as shown below
for the term October 1, 1999 through September 30, 2000 (CYE 00).

                                CAPITATION RATES
                             (per member per month)

                    Capitation rates specific to contractor

<PAGE>   6

          [Letterhead of Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System]

September 22, 1999

Ms. Pat Levin
Chief Executive Officer
Health Choice Arizona
1600 West Broadway, Suite 260
Tempe, Arizona 85282

Dear Ms. Levin:

The Office of Managed Care received your letter of September 14, asking for
clarification on language in the CYE 2000 contract renewal document. Hopefully
the clarification provided below is helpful.

1.       Health Choice Arizona (HCA) suggested that the Nutrition section be
         clarified so as to distinguish between services covered for adults
         (ages 21 and over) and those for individuals who are under age 21.

         ANSWER: THIS CLARIFICATION WAS ADDRESSED AND THE FINAL DOCUMENT SHOULD
         INCORPORATE THE CHANGES MADE. NON-ORAL NUTRITIONAL FEEDING IS COVERED
         FOR ALL MEMBERS WHEN IT IS THE SOLE SOURCE OF NUTRITION DUE TO SEVERE
         PATHOLOGY OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACT. SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITIONAL FEEDING
         (BOTH ORAL AND NON-ORAL) IS COVERED FOR MEMBERS UNDER AGE 21 WHEN
         MEDICALLY NECESSARY AND WHEN THE AHCCCS CRITERIA (PER THE AHCCCS
         MEDICAL POLICY MANUAL) IS MET. IN ADDITION, CONTRACTORS SHALL PROVIDE
         NUTRITIONAL ASSESSMENTS AS A PART OF EPSDT SCREENINGS FOR ALL
         CHILDREN.

2.       HCA proposes that the word "ensure" be revised to "encouraged" on Page
         21 regarding coordination of care for behavioral health.

         ANSWER: AHCCCS IS AWARE THAT IT WOULD BE DIFFICULT FOR THE CONTRACTOR
         TO ENSURE THE MEDICAL RECORD IS ESTABLISHED, HOWEVER, THE CONTRACTOR
         SHOULD REQUIRE THE PCP TO DO SO WHEN INFORMATION IS PROVIDED TO THE
         PCP REGARDING SERVICES THAT WERE NOT PROVIDED BY THE PCP. DOING SO,
         EVEN WHEN THE PCP HAS NOT YET SEEN THE MEMBER, WILL ENSURE THAT THE
         PCP HAS ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED TO HIM/HER WHEN OR IF THE MEMBER IS
         SEEN. THE CONTRACTOR WILL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING THAT
         INFORMATION FROM PROVIDERS OUTSIDE ITS NETWORK IS SENT TO THE PCP.

<PAGE>   7

3.       HCA pointed out an inconsistency on the due date for the results of
         the clinical studies. Attachment F shows 90 days while Section D of
         the contract, page 29 states 180 days.

         ANSWER:  ATTACHMENT "F" WILL BE AMENDED. THE CORRECT DUE DATE IS WITHIN
         180 DAYS AFTER THE END OF EACH CONTRACT YEAR.

4.       HCA requests that the provider compensation measure be removed from the
         new "Access-to-Care" set of performance measures due to the difficulty
         in measuring and confidentiality issues.

         ANSWER:  THE AHCCCS/HEALTH PLAN WORKGROUP HAS ALREADY DECIDED NOT TO
         INCLUDE THE PROVIDER COMPENSATION MEASURE AS AN ACCESS TO CARE
         PERFORMANCE MEASURE.

5.       HCA requested a definition of "incarceration".

         ANSWER: INCARCERATION - CONFINEMENT IN A JAIL, PRISON, PENITENTIARY,
         DETENTION FACILITY OR OTHER PENAL FACILITY.

Please feel free to contact me at (602) 417-4625 if you have any additional
questions.

Sincerely,

  /s/ Kari J. Price

Kari J. Price
Finance Manager
Office of Managed Care

cc:      Nan Jeannero
         Michael Veit

<PAGE>   8

          [Letterhead of Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System]

November 15, 1999

Pat Levin, CEO
Health Choice Arizona
1600 West Broadway, Suite 260
Tempe, Arizona 85282

RE:      AHCCCS Specialty Contracts for Transplantation Services

Dear Ms. Levin:

AHCCCSA has recently extended the specialty contracts for Transplantation
Services. The contracts with Mayo Clinic Arizona (YH8-0022-01), University
Medical Center (YH8-0022-02) and Banner Health System dba: Good Samaritan
Medical Center (YH8-0022-03) have been extended for an additional twelve months
(October 1, 1999 through September 30, 2000). The enclosed amendments are for
your information and records.

Please note that mathematical errors for services performed by Mayo Clinic
Arizona have been corrected and the rates for services performed at Good
Samaritan Medical Center will be increased by 3% effective January 1, 2000.

If you or your staff have any questions, please call me at (602) 417-4408.

Very truly yours,

/s/ Sharon Bercaw

Sharon Bercaw
Contracts and Purchasing

enclosure

c.   James Hammond, Mayo Clinic Arizona
     Kevin Wallace, University Medical Center
     John Strasser, Banner Health System
     Leonard Jasinski, MD, AHCCCS
     Linda Krater, RN, AHCCCS
     Jennie Rich, RN, AHCCCS
     Charles Phillips AHCCCS
     Nan Jeannero, AMCCCS
     Jan Hart, AHCCCS

<PAGE>   9

                             SECTION C: DEFINITIONS
<TABLE>
<S>                         <C>
ADHS                        Arizona Department of Health Services.

AGENT                       Any person who has been delegated the authority to
                            obligate or act on behalf of another person or
                            entity.

AHCCCS                      Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System as
                            defined by ARS ss.36-2901, et seq.

AHCCCS BENEFITS             See "COVERED SERVICES".

AHCCCS MEMBER               See "MEMBER".

AHCCCSA                     Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System
                            Administration.

ALTCS                       The Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS), a
                            program under AHCCCSA that delivers long term,
                            acute, behavioral health and case management
                            services to members, as authorized by ARS ss.
                            36-2931 et seq.

AMBULATORY                  Preventive, diagnostic and treatment services
CARE                        provided on an outpatient basis by physicians,
                            nurse practitioners, physician assistants and other
                            health care providers.

AMPM                        AHCCCS Medical Policy Manual.

ARIZONA                     State regulations established pursuant to relevant
ADMINISTRATIVE              statutes. For purposes of this solicitation, the
CODE (AAC)                  relevant sections of the AAC  referred to throughout
                            this document as "AHCCCS Rules".

ARS                         Arizona Revised Statutes.

AT RISK                     Refers to the period of time that a member is
                            enrolled with a contractor during which time the
                            Contractor is responsible to provide AHCCCS covered
                            services under capitation.

BIDDERS                     A repository of manuals, statutes, rules
LIBRARY                     and other reference material located at the AHCCCS
                            office in Phoenix.

BOARD                       An individual who has successfully completed all
CERTIFIED                   prerequisites of the respective specialty board and
                            successfully passed the required examination for
                            certification.

CAPITATION                  Payment to contractor by AHCCCSA as authorized
                            under ARS ss.36-2942 and ss.36-2931 of a fixed
                            monthly payment per person in advance for which the
                            contractor provides a full range of covered
                            services.

CLEAN CLAIM                 A claim that may be processed without obtaining
                            additional information from the provider of service
                            or from a third party; but does not include claims
                            under investigation for fraud or abuse or claims
                            under review for medical necessity.

COMPETITIVE                 A state procurement system used to select
BID PROCESS                 contractors to provide covered services on a
                            geographic basis.

CONTINUING                  An AHCCCS contractor during CYE 97 that submits a
OFFEROR                     proposal pursuant to this solicitation.

CONTRACT                    See "COVERED SERVICES".
SERVICES

CONTRACT YEAR               Corresponds to federal fiscal year (Oct. 1 through
(CY)                        Sept. 30). For example, Contract Year 99 is 10/1/98
                            - 9/30/99.
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       3
<PAGE>   10

<TABLE>
<S>                         <C>
CONTRACTOR                  A person, organization or entity agreeing through a
                            direct contracting relationship with AHCCCSA to
                            provide the goods and services specified by this
                            contract in conformance with the stated contract
                            requirements, AHCCCS statute and rules and federal
                            law and regulations.

CONVICTED                   A judgment of conviction has been entered by a
                            federal, state or local court, regardless of
                            whether an appeal from that judgment is pending.

CO-PAYMENT                  A monetary amount specified by the Director that
                            the member pays directly to a contractor or
                            provider at the time covered services are rendered.

COUNTY                      Amount of funds contributed to the AHCCCSA fund by
CONTRIBUTION                each Arizona county based on funding formulas
                            established by law.

COVERED                     Health care services to be delivered by a
SERVICES                    contractor which are designated in Section D of
                            this contract and also AHCCCS Rules R9-22-202 et
                            seq. and R9-3 1-201 et seq.

CRS                         Children's Rehabilitative Services.

CY                          See "CONTRACT YEAR".

CYE                         Contract Year Ended; same as "CONTRACT YEAR".

DAYS                        Calendar days unless otherwise specified.

DIRECTOR                    The Director of AHCCCSA.

DISCLOSING                  An AHCCCS provider or a fiscal agent.
ENTITY

DME                         Durable Medical Equipment, which is an item, or
                            appliance that can withstand repeated use, is
                            designated to serve a medical purpose, and is not
                            generally useful to a person in the absence of a
                            medical condition, illness or injury.

DUAL ELIGIBLE               A member who is eligible for both Medicare and
                            Medicaid.

EAC                         Eligible Assistance Child as defined in ARS ss.
                            36-2905.03(B); an AHCCCS state program for children
                            under age 14 receiving food stamps.

ELIC                        Eligible Low-Income Child as defined in ARS ss.
                            36-2905.05(C) and (D); an AHCCCS state program for
                            children under age 14 whose household income
                            exceeds the income limit for the MN/MI program but
                            is less than 100% of the federal poverty level.

ELIGIBILITY                 A process of determining, through a written
DETERMINATION               application, including required documentation,
                            whether an applicant meets the qualifications for
                            Title XIX, Title XXI and/or state-only eligibility.

ELIGIBLE                    A person who meets all eligibility
PERSON                      requirements for the AHCCCS acute care program but
                            who has not yet been enrolled with an AHCCCS acute
                            care contractor.

EMERGENCY                   A medical condition manifesting itself by acute
MEDICAL                     symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe
CONDITION                   pain) such that a prudent layperson, who possesses
                            an average knowledge of health and medicine, could
                            reasonably expect the absence of immediate medical
                            attention to result in: a) placing the patient's
                            health in serious jeopardy; b) serious impairment
                            to bodily functions; or c) serious dysfunction of
                            any bodily organ or part. (42 USC 13960-2)

EMERGENCY                   Services provided after the sudden onset of a
MEDICAL                     medical condition manifesting itself by acute
SERVICE                     symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe
                            pain) that the absence of immediate medical
                            attention could reasonably be expected to result in:
                            a) placing the patient's health in serious jeopardy;
                            b) serious impairment to bodily functions; or c)
                            serious dysfunction of any bodily organ or part.
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       4
<PAGE>   11

<TABLE>
<S>                         <C>
ENCOUNTER                   A record of a medically related service rendered by
                            a provider or providers registered with AHCCCSA to a
                            member who is enrolled with a contractor on the date
                            of service. It includes all services for which the
                            contractor incurred any financial liability.

ENROLLMENT                  The process by which an eligible person becomes a
                            member of a contractor's health plan.

EPSDT                       Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and
                            Treatment; services for persons under 21 years of
                            age as described in AHCCCS rules R9-22, Article 2.

FAMILY PLANNING
SERVICES                    A program that provides family planning services
EXTENSION                   only for a maximum of 24 months to women whose
PROGRAM                     SOBRA eligibility has terminated.

FEDERALLY                   An entity which meets the requirements and receives
QUALIFIED                   a grant and funding pursuant to  Section 330 of
HEALTH CENTER               the Public Health Service Act. An FQHC includes
(FQHC)                      an outpatient health program or facility operated
                            by a tribe or tribal organization under the Indian
                            Self-Determination Act (PL 93-638) or an urban
                            Indian organization receiving funds under Title V
                            of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.

FEE-FOR-                    A method of payment to registered providers on an
SERVICE (FFS)               amount-per service basis.

FFP                         Federal financial participation (FFP) refers to the
                            contribution that the federal government makes to
                            the Title XIX and Title XXI program portions of
                            AHCCCS as defined in 42 CFR 400.203.

FISCAL YEAR                 The budget year - Federal Fiscal Year: October 1
(FY)                        through September 30; State fiscal year: July 1
                            through June 30.

GATEKEEPER                  Primary care provider who is primarily responsible
                            for all medical treatment rendered and who makes
                            referrals as necessary and monitors the member's
                            treatment.

GEOGRAPHIC                  A specific county or defined grouping of counties
SERVICE                     designated by the Administration  within which a
AREA (GSA)                  contractor of record provides, directly or through
                            subcontract, covered health care to members enrolled
                            with that contractor of record

GROUP OF                    Two or more health care professionals who practice
PROVIDERS                   their profession at a common location (whether or
                            not they share facilities, supporting staff, or
                            equipment).

HCFA                        Health Care Financing Administration, an
                            organization within the Department of Health and
                            Human Services, which administers the Medicare and
                            Medicaid, programs.

HEALTH                      Various forms of plan organization, including staff
MAINTENANCE                 and group models, that meet the HMO licensing
ORGANIZATION                requirements of  the federal and/or state government
(HMO)                       and offer a full array of health care services to
                            members on a capitated basis.

HEALTH PLAN                 See "CONTRACTOR".

IBNR                        Incurred But Not Reported claims which is the
                            liability for services rendered for which claims
                            have not been received.

IHS                         Indian Health Service.

LIEN                        A legal claim filed with the County Recorder's
                            office in which a member resides and in the county
                            an injury was sustained for the purpose of ensuring
                            that AHCCCS receives reimbursement for medical
                            services paid. The lien is attached to any
                            settlement the member may receive as a result of an
                            injury.
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       5
<PAGE>   12
<TABLE>
<S>                        <C>
MANAGED CARE               Systems that integrate the financing and delivery of
                           health care services to covered individuals by
                           means of arrangements with selected providers to
                           furnish comprehensive services to members;
                           establish explicit criteria for the selection of
                           health care providers; have significant financial
                           incentives for members to use providers and
                           procedures associated with the plan; and have
                           formal programs for quality assurance and
                           utilization review.

MANAGEMENT                 A person or organization that agrees to perform any
SERVICES                   administrative function or service for the Contractor
SUBCONTRACTOR              specifically related to securing or fulfilling the
                           Contractor's obligations to AHCCCSA under the terms
                           of the contract.

MANAGING                   A general manager, business manager, administrator,
EMPLOYEE                   director, or other individual who exercises
                           operational or managerial control over, or who
                           directly or indirectly conducts the day-to-day
                           operation of, an institution, organization or
                           agency.

MATERIAL                   A fact, data or other information excluded
OMISSION                   from a report, contract, etc. the absence of which
                           could lead to erroneous conclusions following
                           reasonable review of such report, contract, etc.

MEDICAID                   A Federal/State program authorized by Title XIX of
                           the Social Security Act, as amended, which provides
                           federal matching funds for a medical assistance
                           program for recipients.

MEDICARE                   A Federal program authorized by Title XVIII of the
                           Social Security Act, as amended.

MEMBER                     For this document, a person eligible for AHCCCS who
                           is enrolled with a Contractor.

MN/MI                      Medically Needy/Medically Indigent; state program
                           for individuals not eligible for Medicaid but who
                           meet the eligibility requirements for the state
                           program.

NEW OFFEROR                The organization, entity or person which submits
                           a proposal in response to this solicitation
                           and which has not been an AHCCCS contractor during
                           CYE 97.

NON-                       A person who provides services as prescribed in ARS
CONTRACTING                ss.36-2939 and who does not have a subcontract
PROVIDER                   with an AHCCCS contractor.

OFFEROR                    A person or other entity that submits a proposal to
                           the Administration in response to an REP.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES       A set of standardized indicators designed to assist
                           AHCCCS in evaluating, comparing and improving the
                           performance of its contractors. Specific
                           descriptions of health services measurement goals
                           are found in Section D, Paragraph 16, Performance
                           Measures.

PMMIS                      Pre-paid Medical Management Information System.

PRIMARY CARE               An individual who meets the requirements of
PROVIDER (PCP)             ARS ss.36-2901, and who is responsible for (PCP) the
                           management of a member's health care. A PCP may be
                           a physician defined as a person licensed as
                           allopathic or osteopathic physician according to
                           ARS Title 32, Chapter 13 or Chapter 17 or a
                           practitioner defined as a physician assistant
                           licensed under ARS Title 32, Chapter 25, or a
                           certified nurse practitioner licensed under ARS
                           Title 32, Chapter 15.

PRIOR PERIOD               The period of time preceding the actual notification
                           to a health plan of a member's enrollment during
                           which the health plan is retroactively liable for
                           payment of all covered services received by the
                           member. It is generally the period from the first
                           day of the month of application, or first eligible
                           month, up to the day of the health plan's receipt
                           of notification of the member's enrollment Prior
                           period coverage also includes updated eligibility
                           that covers a retroactive time period when the
                           member was not previously enrolled with AHCCCS.
                           Prior period coverage does not apply to Title XXI
                           members and does not include prior quarter coverage
                           (see below).
</TABLE>
                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
                                       6
<PAGE>   13
<TABLE>
<S>                         <C>
PRIOR QUARTER               The three-month period immediately proceeding the
                            month in which the member applies for Title XIX
                            benefits. If it is determined that the member would
                            have been eligible had the member applied in the
                            month in which services were provided, AHCCCSA may
                            pay for unpaid Title XIX services on a
                            fee-for-service basis. The Contractor is not liable
                            for the prior quarter period.

PROVIDER                    Any person who contracts with the Administration for
                            the provision of hospitalization and medical care
                            to members according to the provisions ARS ss.
                            36-2901 or any subcontractor of provider delivering
                            services pursuant to ARS ss.36-2901.

QUALIFIED                   A person, eligible under ARS ss.36-2971(4), who is
MEDICARE                    entitled to Medicare Part A insurance, meets
BENEFICIARY                 certain income, resource and residency requirements
(QMB)                       of the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program. A
                            QMB who is also categorically eligible for Medicaid
                            is commonly referred to as a dual eligible.

RATE CODE                   Eligibility classification for capitation payment
                            purposes.

REGIONAL                    An organization under contract with ADHS to
BEHAVIORAL                  administer covered behavioral health services in a
HEALTH                      geographically specific area of the state. Tribal
AUTHORITY                   governments, through an agreement with ADHS, may
(RBHA)                      operate a tribal regional behavioral health
                            authority (TRBHA) for the provision of behavioral
                            health services to Native American members living
                            on-reservation.

REINSURANCE                 A risk-sharing program provided by the
                            Administration to contractors for the reimbursement
                            of certain contract service costs incurred by a
                            member beyond a certain monetary threshold.

RELATED PARTY               A party that has, or may have, the ability to
                            control or significantly influence a contractor, or
                            a party that is, or may be, controlled or
                            significantly influenced by a contractor. "Related
                            parties" include, but are not limited to, agents,
                            managing employees, persons with an ownership or
                            controlling interest in the disclosing entity, and
                            their immediate families, subcontractors,
                            wholly-owned subsidiaries or suppliers, parent
                            companies, sister companies, holding companies, and
                            other entities controlled or managed by any such
                            entities or persons.

RFP                         Request For Proposals which is a document prepared
                            by AHCCCSA which describes the services required and
                            which instructs prospective offerors how to prepare
                            a response (proposal).

SCOPE OF                    See "COVERED SERVICES".
SERVICES

SOBRA                       Section 9401 of the Sixth Omnibus Budget and
                            Reconciliation Act, 1986, amended by the Medicare
                            Catastrophic Coverage Act of 1988, 42 U.S.C.
                            1396a(a)(10)(A)(ii)(IX), July 1, 1988.

STATE                       The State of Arizona.

STATE PLAN                  The written agreements between the State and HCFA
                            which describes how the AHCCCS program meets HCFA
                            requirements for participation in the Medicaid
                            program and the Children's Health Insurance
                            Program.

STATE-ONLY                  A member who is not eligible for Title XIX or XXI
MEMBER                      but is eligible for one of the state-funded
                            eligibility categories which include Medically
                            Needy/Medically Indigent (MN/MI), Eligible
                            Assistance Children (EAC), Eligible Low Income
                            Children (ELIC), and SSI-related non-qualified
                            aliens.

</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       7
<PAGE>   14
<TABLE>
<S>                         <C>
SUBCONTRACT                 Agreement entered into by Contractor with a provider
                            of health care services who agrees to furnish
                            covered services to members, or with a marketing
                            organization, or with any other organization or
                            person who agrees to perform any administrative
                            function or service for Contractor specifically
                            related to fulfilling Contractor's obligations to
                            AHCCCSA under the terms of this contract.

SUBCONTRACTOR               (1) A person, agency or organization to that a
                            contractor has contracted with or delegated some of
                            its management functions or responsibilities to
                            provide covered services to its members; or (2) A
                            person, agency or organization that a fiscal agent
                            has entered into a contract, agreement, purchase
                            order or lease (or leases of real property) to
                            obtain space, supplies, equipment or services
                            provided under the AHCCCS agreement.

SUPPLEMENTAL                Federal cash assistance program under Title XVI of
SECURITY                    the Social Security Act.
INCOME (SSI)

TEFRA RISK                  A Health Maintenance Organization or Comprehensive
HMO                         Medical Plan, which provides Medicare, services to
                            Medicare beneficiaries pursuant to a Medicare risk
                            contract with HCFA under ss.1876 of the Social
                            Security Act.

TEMPORARY                   A federal cash assistance program under Title IV-A
ASSISTANCE TO               of the Social Security Act. It replaced Aid To
NEEDY FAMILIES              Families With Dependent Children (AFDC)
(TANF)

THIRD PARTY                 An individual, entity or program that is or may be
                            liable to pay all or part of the medical cost of
                            injury, disease or disability of an AHCCCS
                            applicant or member.

THIRD PARTY                 The resources available from a person or entity
LIABILITY                   that is, or may be, by agreement, circumstance or
                            otherwise, liable to pay all or part of the medical
                            expenses incurred by an AHCCCS applicant or member.

TITLE XIX                   Member eligible for Medicaid under Title XIX of the
MEMBER                      Social Security Act including those eligible under
                            1931 provisions of the Social Security Act
                            (previously AFDC), Sixth Omnibus Budget
                            Reconciliation Act (SOBRA), Supplemental Security
                            Income (SSI) or SSI-related groups.

TITLE XXI                   Member eligible for acute care services under Title
MEMBER                      XXI of the Social Security Act, referred to in
                            federal legislation as the "Children's Health
                            Insurance Program" (CHIP). The Arizona version of
                            CHIP is referred to as "KidsCare."

TRIBAL                      A facility that is operated by an Indian tribe and
FACILITY                    that is authorized to provide services pursuant to
                            Public Law 93-638, as amended.

YEAR                        See "Contract Year".
</TABLE>

                              [END OF DEFINITIONS]

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       8
<PAGE>   15

                        SECTION D: PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                      <C>
1.    SCOPE OF SERVICES..............................................................................    10
2.    BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES.....................................................................    16
3.    AHCCCS MEDICAL POLICY MANUAL...................................................................    18
4.    VACCINE FOR CHILDREN PROGRAM...................................................................    18
5.    DENIALS OR REDUCTIONS OF SERVICES..............................................................    18
6.    ENROLLMENT AND DISENROLLMENT...................................................................    18
7.    MAINSTREAMING OF AHCCCS MEMBERS................................................................    20
8.    MEMBER INFORMATION.............................................................................    21
9.    MEMBER SURVEYS.................................................................................    23
10.   MARKETING PLANS................................................................................    23
11.   ANNUAL ENROLLMENT CHOICE.......................................................................    23
12.   TRANSITION OF MEMBERS..........................................................................    24
13.   STAFF REQUIREMENTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES........................................................    25
14.   WRITTEN POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS..............................................    26
15.   ADVANCE DIRECTIVES.............................................................................    26
16.   PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT........................................................................    27
17.   QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT (QM/UM)..........................................    29
18.   PHYSICIAN INCENTIVES...........................................................................    29
19.   APPOINTMENT STANDARDS..........................................................................    29
20.   REFERRAL PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS..............................................................    30
21.   PROVIDER MANUAL................................................................................    31
22.   PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER STANDARDS................................................................    32
23.   OTHER PROVIDER STANDARDS.......................................................................    32
24.   NETWORK DEVELOPMENT............................................................................    33
25.   NETWORK MANAGEMENT.............................................................................    34
26.   FEDERALLY QUALIFIED HEALTH CENTERS (FQHC)......................................................    34
27.   PROVIDER REGISTRATION..........................................................................    35
28.   PROVIDER AFFILIATION TAPE......................................................................    35
29.   PERIODIC REPORT REQUIREMENTS...................................................................    35
30.   DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION...................................................................    36
31.   REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION.......................................................................    36
32.   OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL READINESS REVIEWS....................................................    36
33.   OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL REVIEWS..............................................................    36
34.   CLAIMS PAYMENT SYSTEM..........................................................................    37
35.   HOSPITAL SUBCONTRACTING AND REIMBURSEMENT......................................................    37
36.   NURSING FACILITY REIMBURSEMENT.................................................................    38
37.   COMPENSATION...................................................................................    39
38.   CAPITATION ADJUSTMENTS.........................................................................    40
39.   REINSURANCE....................................................................................    41
40.   COORDINATION OF BENEFITS/THIRD PARTY LIABILITY.................................................    43
41.   MEDICARE SERVICES AND COST SHARING.............................................................    45
42.   COPAYMENTS.....................................................................................    45
43.   RECORDS RETENTION..............................................................................    45
44.   MEDICAL RECORDS................................................................................    45
45.   ADVANCES, DISTRIBUTIONS, LOANS AND INVESTMENTS.................................................    46
46.   ACCUMULATED FUND DEFICIT.......................................................................    46
47.   DATA EXCHANGE REQUIREMENT......................................................................    46
48.   ENCOUNTER DATA REPORTING.......................................................................    47
49.   MONTHLY ROSTER RECONCILIATION..................................................................    48
50.   TERM OF CONTRACT AND OPTION TO RENEW...........................................................    48
51.   SUBCONTRACTS...................................................................................    49
52.   SPECIALTY CONTRACTS............................................................................    50
53.   MANAGEMENT SERVICES SUBCONTRACTORS.............................................................    50
54.   MANAGEMENT SERVICES SUBCONTRACTOR AUDITS.......................................................    51
55.   MINIMUM CAPITALIZATION REQUIREMENTS............................................................    51
56.   PERFORMANCE BOND OR BOND SUBSTITUTE............................................................    51
57.   AMOUNT OF PERFORMANCE BOND.....................................................................    52
58.   FINANCIAL VIABILITY CRITERIA/PERFORMANCE MEASURES..............................................    52
59.   MERGER, REORGANIZATION AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP.................................................    53
60.   SANCTIONS......................................................................................    53
61.   AUTO-ASSIGNMENT ALGORITHM......................................................................    54
62.   GRIEVANCE PROCESS AND STANDARDS................................................................    54
63.   QUARTERLY GRIEVANCE REPORT.....................................................................    54
64.   KIDSCARE.......................................................................................    54
65.   PENDING LEGISLATIVE ISSUES.....................................................................    55
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       9
<PAGE>   16

                        SECTION D: PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

1.       SCOPE OF SERVICES

The Contractor shall provide covered services to AHCCCS members in accordance
with all applicable federal, State and local laws, rules, regulations and
policies, including services listed in this document, listed by reference in
attachments, and AHCCCS policies referenced in this document. The services are
described in detail in AHCCCS Rules R9-22-202 et seq., the AHCCCS Medical
Policy Manual (AMPM), and the document entitled "AHCCCS Health Plan Performance
Indicators", all of which are incorporated herein by reference and may be found
in the Bidder's Library. The covered services are briefly described below.
Covered services must be medically necessary and provided by, or coordinated
with, a primary care provider, except for behavioral health and children's
preventive dental services. Services must be rendered by providers that are
appropriately licensed or certified, operating within their scope of practice,
and registered as an AHCCCS provider. The Contractor shall provide the same
standard of care for all members regardless of the member's eligibility
category.

The Contractor shall ensure that its providers are not restricted or inhibited
in any way from communicating freely with members regarding the members' health
care, medical needs and treatment options even if needed services are not
covered by the Contractor.

BALANCED BUDGET ACT OF 1997: This version of the AHCCCS acute care contract is
believed to contain all of the requirements mandated by the federal Balanced
Budget Act of 1997. The Contractor, however, shall be held liable for all
mandated requirements whether or not they appear in this renewal amendment.

KIDSCARE COVERED SERVICES: KidsCare members are eligible for the same services
covered for members under the Title XIX and state-only programs, with the
following differences, exclusions and/or limitations:

a.       Non-emergency transportation is not covered.

b.       Chiropractic services are not covered.

c.       Vision services are limited to one eye examination per contract year
         and one pair of glasses or contacts every contract year.

d.       EPSDT services are limited to those services specified in this
         contract.

e.       Behavioral health services are limited to 30 inpatient days and 30
         outpatient visits per contract year.  (See details under Section D
         Paragraph 2, Behavioral Health Services.)

f.       Licensed midwives and home deliveries are not covered.

For further details regarding the KidsCare program, see Section D, Paragraph
64, KidsCare, and the AHCCCS Medical Policy Manual (AMPM).

AMBULATORY SURGERY AND ANESTHESIOLOGY: The Contractor shall provide surgical
services for either emergency or scheduled surgeries when provided in an
ambulatory or outpatient setting such as a free-standing surgical center or a
hospital based outpatient surgical setting.

AUDIOLOGY: The Contractor shall provide audiology services to members under the
age of 21 including the identification and evaluation of hearing loss and
rehabilitation of the hearing loss through other than medical or surgical means
(i.e. hearing aids). Only the identification and evaluation of hearing loss are
covered for members 21 years of age and older unless the hearing loss is due to
an accident or injury-related emergent condition.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH: The Contractor shall provide behavioral health services as
described in Section D, Paragraph 2, Behavioral Health Services.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                      10
<PAGE>   17

CHILDREN'S REHABILITATIVE SERVICES (CRS): The program for children with
CRS-covered conditions is administered by the Arizona Department of Health
Services (ADHS) for children who meet CRS eligibility criteria. The Contractor
shall refer children to the CRS program who are potentially eligible for
services related to CRS covered conditions. Eligibility criteria and the
referral process are described in the CRS Policy and Procedures Manual
available in the Bidder's Library.

The Contractor is responsible for providing primary medical care and emergency
services not covered by CRS. The Contractor is also responsible for initial
care of newborn members, who are CRS eligible. The Contractor must require the
member's Primary Care Provider (PCP) to coordinate their care with the CRS
program. All services provided must be included in the member's medical record
maintained by the PCP.

A member with private insurance is not required to utilize CRS. If the member
uses their private insurance network for a CRS covered condition, and the
member is not enrolled with CRS, the Contractor is responsible for all
applicable deductibles and copays.

The Contractor remains ultimately responsible for the provision of all covered
services to its members. Therefore, if the Contractor becomes aware that CRS
has failed to meet the established appointment standards, the Contractor shall
provide the services.

CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES: The Contractor shall provide chiropractic services to
Title XIX members under age 21 when prescribed by the member's PCP and approved
by the Contractor in order to ameliorate the member's medical condition.
Chiropractic services shall also be covered, subject to limitations specified
in CFR 410.22, for dually qualified Medicare beneficiaries if prescribed by the
member's PCP and approved by the Contractor.

DENTAL: The Contractor shall provide all members under the age of 21 with all
medically necessary dental services including emergency dental services; dental
screening and preventive services in accordance with the AHCCCS periodicity
schedule; therapeutic dental services; dentures; and pre-transplantation dental
services. The Contractor shall monitor compliance with the EPSDT periodicity
schedule for dental screening services and ensure that dental service reports
are included in the member's medical record maintained by the PCP. The
Contractor is required to meet specific utilization rates for members as
described in Section D, Paragraph 16, Performance Measures. The Contractor
shall ensure that members are notified when dental screenings are due if the
member has not been scheduled for a visit. If no dental screening is received
by the member, a second notice must be sent. Members under the age of 21 may
request dental services without referral and may choose a dental provider from
the Contractor's provider network. Members 21 years of age and older are
eligible for emergency dental services, medically necessary dentures and
pre-transplantation dental services only. Dental standards may be found in the
AMPM which is incorporated herein by reference and which may be found in the
Bidder's Library.

DIALYSIS: The Contractor shall provide medically necessary dialysis, supplies,
diagnostic testing and medication for all members when provided by
Medicare-certified hospitals or Medicare-certified end stage renal disease
(ESRD) providers. Services may be provided on an outpatient basis, or on an
inpatient basis if the hospital admission is not solely to provide chronic
dialysis services.

EARLY AND PERIODIC SCREENING, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT (EPSDT): The Contractor
shall provide comprehensive health care services through primary prevention,
early intervention, diagnosis and medically necessary treatment for members
under age 21. The Contractor shall ensure that these members receive required
health screenings, including developmental/behavioral health, in compliance
with the AHCCCS periodicity schedule (Exhibit 430-1 in the AMPM) and to submit
to the AHCCCS Office of the Medical Director/Acute Care Unit, all EPSDT reports
as required by AHCCCS medical policy. The Contractor is required to meet
specific participation/utilization rates for members as described in Section D,
Paragraph 16, Performance Measures. Because the behavioral health benefit for
Title XIX and Title XXI is provided through the ADHS/RBHA system, the
Contractor shall ensure the initiation and coordination of the referral of
these

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                      11
<PAGE>   18

members to the RBHA and shall follow up with the RBHA to monitor whether
members have received behavioral health services. Title XXI members are not
entitled to the all-encompassing EPSDT service package required for Title XIX
children. Title XXI children are entitled only to the EPSDT and other covered
services specified in this document, the AMPM and the Title XXI State Plan.

EMERGENCY SERVICES: The Contractor shall have and/or provide the following as a
minimum:

a.     Emergency services facilities adequately staffed by qualified medical
       professionals to provide pre-hospital, emergency care on a
       24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week basis, for the sudden onset of a medically
       emergent condition as defined by AHCCCS Rule R9-22-101 and R9-31-101.
       Emergency medical services are covered without prior authorization. The
       Contractor is encouraged to contract with emergency service facilities
       for the provision of emergency services. The Contractor is encouraged to
       contract with or employ the services of non-emergency facilities (e.g.
       urgent care centers) to address member non-emergency care issues
       occurring after regular office hours or on weekends. The Contractor
       shall be responsible for educating members and providers regarding
       appropriate utilization of emergency room services including behavioral
       health emergencies. The Contractor shall monitor emergency services
       utilization (by both provider and member) and shall have guidelines for
       implementing corrective action for inappropriate utilization. For
       utilization review, the test for appropriateness of the request for
       emergency services shall be whether a prudent layperson, similarly
       situated, would have requested such services. For purposes of this
       contract, a "prudent layperson" is defined as a person without medical
       training who exercises those qualities of attention, knowledge,
       intelligence and judgment which society requires of its members for the
       protection of their own interest and the interests of others. The phrase
       does not apply to a person's ability to reason, but rather the prudence
       with which he acts under a given set of circumstances.

b.     All medical services necessary to rule out an emergency condition

c.     Emergency transportation

d.     Member access by telephone to a physician, registered nurse, physician
       assistant or nurse practitioner for advice in emergent or urgent
       situations, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

e.     The Contractor shall comply with established guidelines regarding the
       coordination of post-stabilization care.

EYE EXAMINATIONS/OPTOMETRY: The Contractor shall provide all medically
necessary emergency eye care, vision examinations, prescriptive lenses, and
treatments for conditions of the eye for all members under the age of 21, with
the exception of KidsCare members. See limitations for KidsCare members
described at the beginning of this section, titled "KidsCare Covered Services."
For members who are 21 years of age and older, the Contractor shall provide
emergency care for eye conditions which meet the definition of an emergency
medical condition, cataract removal, and/or medically necessary vision
examinations and prescriptive lenses if required following cataract removal and
other eye conditions as specified in the AMPM.

FAMILY PLANNING: The Contractor shall provide family planning services for all
members who choose to delay or prevent pregnancy. These include medical,
surgical, pharmacological and laboratory services, as well as contraceptive
devices. Information and counseling necessary to allow the members to make
informed decisions regarding family planning methods shall also be included. If
the Contractor does not provide family planning services, it must contract for
these services through another health care delivery system, which allows
members freedom of choice in selecting a provider. A prospective offeror may
discuss arrangements for family planning services only with other prospective
offerors during the RFP process for the purpose of making arrangements for the
provision of family planning services.

The Contractor shall provide services to members enrolled in the Family
Planning Services Extension Program; a program that provides only family
planning services for a maximum of 24 months to women whose SOBRA eligibility
has terminated. The Contractor is also responsible for notifying AHCCCSA when a
SOBRA woman is sterilized to prevent inappropriate enrollment in the SOBRA
Family Planning Services Extension Program. Notification may be made at the
time the newborn is reported or after the sterilization procedure is completed.

HEALTH RISK ASSESSMENT AND SCREENING: The Contractor shall provide these
services for non-hospitalized members 21 years of age and older. These services
include, but are not limited to, screening for hypertension,

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                      12
<PAGE>   19

elevated cholesterol, colon cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, tuberculosis
and HIV/AIDS; nutritional assessment in cases when the member has a chronic
debilitating disease affected by nutritional needs; mammograms and prostate
screenings; physical examinations and diagnostic work-ups; and immunizations.
Required assessment and screening services for members under age 21 are
included in the AHCCCS EPSDT periodicity schedule.

HOME HEALTH: The Contractor shall provide part-time or intermittent care for
members who do not require hospital care. This service is provided under the
direction of a physician to prevent re-hospitalization or institutionalization
and may include nursing, therapies, supplies and home health aide services.

HOSPICE: These services are covered for members under 21 years of age who are
certified by a physician as being terminally ill and having six months or less
to live. See the AMPM for details on covered hospice services.

HOSPITAL: Inpatient services include semi-private accommodations for routine
care, intensive and coronary care, surgical care, obstetrics and newborn
nurseries, and behavioral health emergency/crisis stabilization. If the
member's medical condition requires isolation; private inpatient accommodations
are covered. Nursing services, dietary services and ancillary services such as
laboratory, radiology, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, blood and blood
derivatives, etc. are also covered. Outpatient services include any of the
above services, which may be provided on an outpatient or ambulatory basis
(i.e., laboratory, radiology, therapies, ambulatory surgery, etc.). Observation
services may be provided on an outpatient basis for up to 24 hours if
determined reasonable and necessary to decide whether the member should be
admitted for inpatient care. Observation services include the use of a bed and
periodic monitoring by hospital nursing staff and/or other staff to evaluate,
stabilize or treat medical conditions of a significant degree of instability
and/or disability.

IMMUNIZATIONS: The Contractor shall provide immunizations for adults (21 years
of age and older) to include diphtheria-tetanus, influenza, pneumococcus,
rubella, measles and hepatitis-B. For all members under the age of 21,
immunization requirements include diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis vaccine (DPT),
oral/inactivated polio vaccine (OPV/IPV), measles, mumps, rubella vaccine
(MMR), H. influenza, type B (HIB), hepatitis B (Hep B), and varicella vaccine.
The Contractor is required to meet specific immunization rates for members
under the age of 21, which are described in Section D, Paragraph 16,
Performance Measures.

INDIAN HEALTH SERVICES (IHS): The Contractor may choose to subcontract with and
pay an IHS or tribal facility for covered services provided to members.
Effective October 1, 1999, the Contractor is responsible for reimbursement to
IHS or tribal facilities for emergency services provided to state-only and
Title XXI Native American members enrolled with the Contractor. The Contractor
has no responsibility for non-emergency services to state-only and Title XXI
Native American members unless the Contractor refers or prior authorizes the
service. Effective October 1, 1998, AHCCCSA will reimburse claims for services
that are medically necessary and eligible for 100% Federal reimbursement,
provided to Title XIX members in an IHS or tribal facility.

LABORATORY: Laboratory services for diagnostic, screening and monitoring
purposes are covered when ordered by the member's PCP, other attending
physician or dentist, and provided by a CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement
Act) approved free standing laboratory or hospital laboratory, clinic,
physician office or other health care facility laboratory.

Upon written request, a Contractor may obtain laboratory test data on members
from a laboratory or hospital based laboratory subject to the requirements
specified in ARS ss.36-2903 R. The data shall be used exclusively for quality
improvement activities and health care outcome studies required and/or approved
by the Administration.

MATERNITY: The Contractor shall provide pre-conception counseling, pregnancy
identification, prenatal care, treatment of pregnancy related conditions, labor
and delivery services, and postpartum care for members.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                      13
<PAGE>   20

Services may be provided by physicians, physician assistants or nurse
practitioners certified in midwifery. Members may select or be assigned to a
PCP specializing in obstetrics. Circumcisions are covered if performed during
the newborn's hospital stay after birth, or on an outpatient basis within one
month of the infant's hospital discharge. Title XIX and state-only members
anticipated to have a low-risk delivery may elect to receive labor and delivery
services in their home from their maternity provider if this setting is
included in allowable settings for the Contractor, and the Contractor has
providers in its network that offer home labor and delivery services. Title XIX
and state-only members anticipated to have a low-risk prenatal course and
delivery may elect to receive maternity services of prenatal care, labor and
delivery and postpartum care provided by licensed midwives if they are in the
Contractor's provider network. All licensed midwife labor and delivery services
must be provided in the member's home since licensed midwives do not have
admitting privileges in hospitals or AHCCCS registered free-standing birthing
centers. Members receiving maternity services from a licensed midwife must also
be assigned to a PCP for other health care and medical services. Home delivery
and licensed midwives are not covered for Title XXI members.

The Contractor shall allow women and their newborns to receive up to 48 hours
of inpatient hospital care after a routine vaginal delivery and up to 96 hours
of inpatient care after a cesarean delivery. The attending health care
provider, in consultation with the mother, may discharge the mother or newborn
prior to the 48-hour minimum length of stay. A normal newborn may be granted an
extended stay in the hospital of birth when the mother's continued stay in the
hospital is beyond the 48 or 96 hour stay.

MEDICALLY-NECESSARY ABORTIONS: This service is covered for a member if the
member suffers from a physical disorder, physical injury, or physical illness
including a life endangering physical condition caused by or rising from the
pregnancy itself, that would, as certified by a physician, place the member in
danger of death unless an abortion is performed. The service is also covered
for Title XIX and Title XXI members if the pregnancy is caused by rape or
incest. Providers must document and submit to the Contractor a Certificate of
Medical Necessity for Pregnancy Termination and prior authorization is
required. If the procedure is performed on an emergency basis, documentation
must be submitted to the Contractor within two working days. Additional
documentation, outlined in the AMPM, is required for members under 18 years of
age or are considered an incapacitated adult who seek a medically necessary
abortion due to rape or incest.

MEDICAL SUPPLIES, DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT (DME), ORTHOTIC AND PROSTHETIC
DEVICES: These services are covered when prescribed by the member's PCP,
attending physician or practitioner, or by a dentist. Medical equipment may be
rented or purchased only if other sources are not available which provide the
items at no cost. The total cost of the rental must not exceed the purchase
price of the item. Reasonable repairs or adjustments of purchased equipment are
covered to make the equipment serviceable and/or when the repair cost is less
than renting or purchasing another unit.

NURSING FACILITY: The Contractor shall provide nursing facility services,
including religious nonmedical health care institutions, for members who
require short-term convalescent care not to exceed 90 days per contract year.
In lieu of a nursing facility, the member may be placed in an alternative
living facility or receive home and community based services (HCBS) as defined
in R9-28, Article 1 that meet the provider standards described in R9-28,
Article 5.

Nursing facility services must be provided in a dually-certified
Medicare/Medicaid facility which includes in the per-diem rate: nursing
services, basic patient care equipment and sickroom supplies, dietary services,
administrative physician visits, non-customized DME, necessary maintenance
rehabilitation therapies, over-the-counter medications, social, recreational
and spiritual activities, and administrative, operational medical direction
services. The Contractor shall provide medically necessary nursing facility
services for any member who has a pending ALTCS application, who is currently
residing in a nursing facility and is eligible for services provided under this
contract. If the member becomes ALTCS eligible and is enrolled with an ALTCS
Program Contractor before the end of the maximum 90 days of nursing facility
coverage, the Contractor is only responsible for nursing facility coverage
during the time the member is enrolled with the Contractor. Nursing facility
services covered by a third party insurer (including Medicare) while the member
is enrolled

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                      14
<PAGE>   21

with the Contractor shall be applied to the 90 day limitation. See Paragraph
36, Nursing Facility Reimbursement, for further details.

The Contractor shall notify the Assistant Director of the Division of Member
Services in writing, when a member has been residing in a nursing facility for
75 days. This will allow AHCCCSA time to follow-up on the status of the ALTCS
application and to prepare for potential fee-for-service coverage if the stay
goes beyond the 90-day maximum.

NUTRITION: Nutritional feeding through a non-oral method such as TPN or tube
feeding is covered for all members when it is the sole source of nutrition due
to severe pathology of the alimentary tract. Nutritional feeding may also be
used to supplement nutrition for members under age 21 when medically necessary
but need not be the member's sole source of nutrition. Medically necessary oral
nutritional supplements are covered only for members under the age 21 and only
when AHCCCS criteria are met. In addition, the Contractor shall provide
nutritional assessments as a part of EPSDT screening for all children. See the
AMPM for details.

PHYSICIAN: The Contractor shall provide physician services to include medical
assessment, treatments and surgical services provided by licensed allopathic or
osteopathic physicians.

PODIATRY: The Contractor shall provide podiatry services to include
bunionectomies, casting for the purpose of constructing or accommodating
orthotics, medically necessary orthopedic shoes that are an integral part of a
brace, and medically necessary routine foot care for patients with a severe
systemic disease which prohibits care by a nonprofessional person.

PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS AND PHARMACY: Medications ordered by a PCP, attending
physician or dentist and dispensed under the direction of a licensed pharmacist
are covered subject to limitations related to prescription supply amounts,
Contractor formularies and prior authorization requirements, as well as
restrictions for immunosuppressant drugs addressed in AHCCCS medical policies
for transplantations. Over-the-counter medication may be prescribed when it is
determined to be a lower-cost alternative to prescription medication.

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER (PCP): PCP services are covered when provided by a
physician, physician assistant or nurse practitioner selected by, or assigned
to, the member. The PCP provides primary health care and serves as a gatekeeper
and coordinator in referring the member for specialty medical services,
behavioral health and dental services. The PCP is responsible for maintaining
the member's primary medical record which contains documentation of all health
risk assessments and health care services of which they are aware whether or
not they were provided by the PCP.

RADIOLOGY AND MEDICAL IMAGING: These services are covered when ordered by the
member's PCP, attending physician or dentist and are provided for diagnosis,
prevention, treatment or assessment of a medical condition. Services are
generally provided in hospitals, clinics, physician offices and other health
care facilities.

REHABILITATION THERAPY: The Contractor shall provide occupational, physical and
speech therapies. Therapies must be prescribed by the member's PCP or attending
physician for an acute condition and the member must have the potential for
improvement due to the rehabilitation. Occupational and speech therapies are
only covered on an inpatient basis for those members who are 21 and over;
physical therapy for all members and occupational and speech therapies for
members under the age of 21 are covered on both an inpatient and outpatient
basis if not used as a maintenance regimen.

RESPIRATORY THERAPY: This therapy is covered on an inpatient or outpatient
basis when prescribed by the member's PCP or attending physician and is
necessary to restore, maintain or improve respiratory functioning.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                      15

<PAGE>   22
TRANSPLANTATION OF ORGANS AND TISSUE, AND RELATED IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT DRUGS: These
services are covered within limitations defined in the AMPM for members
diagnosed with specified medical conditions. Such limitations include whether
the stage of the disease is such that the transplant can affect the outcome; the
member has no other conditions which substantially reduce the potential for
successful transplantation; and whether the member will be able to comply with
necessary and required regimens of treatment. Bone grafts are also covered under
this service. Services include pre-transplant inpatient or outpatient
evaluation; donor search; organ/tissue harvesting or procurement; preparation
and transplantation services; and convalescent care. In addition, if a member
receives a transplant covered by a source other than AHCCCS, medically necessary
non-experimental services are provided within limitations after the discharge
from the acute care hospitalization for the transplantation. AHCCCS has
contracted with transplantation providers for the Contractor's use or the
Contractor may select its own transplantation provider. However, the quality of
services must be equal to or exceed those of the AHCCCS provider and the rate
paid can not exceed the AHCCCS provider's negotiated rate. Transplantations for
the MN/MI population are subject to available funding.

TRANSPORTATION: These services include emergency and non-emergency medically
necessary transportation. Emergency transportation, including transportation
initiated by an emergency response system such as 911, may be provided by
ground, air or water ambulance to manage an AHCCCS member's emergency medical
condition at an emergency scene and transport the member to the nearest
appropriate medical facility. Non-emergency transportation shall be provided for
Title XIX and state-only members who are unable to provide their own
transportation for medically necessary services. Title XXI members are not
eligible for non-emergency transportation services except for transfers between
facilities.

TRIAGE/SCREENING AND EVALUATION: These are covered services when provided by
acute care hospitals, IHS facilities and urgent care centers to determine
whether or not an emergency exists, assess the severity of the member's medical
condition and determine services necessary to alleviate or stabilize the
emergent condition. The provider must notify the Contractor within 12 hours of
the member's registration with the facility for emergency services. Supporting
documentation for services rendered must be provided when reporting or billing a
service. Triage/screening services must be reasonable, cost effective and meet
the criteria for severity of illness and intensity of service.

2.       BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES

Title XIX (1931 group, SSI, SOBRA) and Title XXI (KidsCare) members are eligible
for comprehensive behavioral health services. The behavioral health benefit for
these members is provided through the ADHS-Regional Behavioral Health Authority
(RBHA) system. The Contractor shall be responsible for member education
regarding these benefits; provision of limited emergency inpatient services; and
screening and referral to the RBHA system of members identified as requiring
behavioral health services.

MEMBER EDUCATION: The Contractor shall be responsible for educating members in
the member handbook and other printed documents about covered behavioral health
services and where and how to access services. Covered services for Title XIX
and Title XXI are similar with the exception that non-emergency transportation
is not covered for Title XXI members. For Title XXI members inpatient services
and specified outpatient services are limited to 30 days/30 visits per contract
year. Covered services include:

         a.       Inpatient services (Title XXI limited to 30 days per contract
                  year)

         b.       Individual, group and family therapy and counseling (limited
                  for Title XXI)

         c.       Psychotropic medication

         d.       Psychotropic medication adjustment and monitoring

         e.       Partial care, basic and intensive (limited for Title XXI)

         f.       Emergency crisis services

         g.       Behavior management (limited for Title XXI)

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       16
<PAGE>   23

         h.       Psychosocial rehabilitation (limited for Title XXI)

         i.       Evaluation, screening and diagnosis (limited for Title XXI)

         j.       Laboratory and radiology services for psychotropic medication
                  regulation and diagnosis

         k.       Emergency and medically necessary transportation (Title XXI
                  members limited to emergency transportation only)

         l.       Case management services

REFERRALS: As specified in Section D, Paragraph 1, the Contractor must provide
developmental behavioral health screenings in compliance with the AHCCCS
periodicity schedule. The Contractor shall ensure the initiation and
coordination of behavioral health referrals of these members to the RBHA when
determined necessary through the screening process.

The Contractor is responsible for referring other Title XIX and Title XXI
members identified as needing behavioral health treatment services to the RBHA
for evaluation and provision of covered services. Members may also access the
RBHA system for evaluation by self-referral or be referred by schools, State
agencies or other service providers. The Contractor is responsible for providing
transportation to Title XIX members first RBHA evaluation appointments if
members are unable to provide their own transportation.

EMERGENCY SERVICES: For Title XIX and Title XXI members not enrolled with ADHS,
the Contractor is responsible for up to three days of inpatient emergency
behavioral health services not to exceed 12 days per contract year.

For state-only members (MN/MI, EAC, ELIC): The Contractor is responsible for up
to three days of inpatient emergency behavioral health services not to exceed 12
days per contract year. For members who become eligible during an emergency
episode, the three (3) days of coverage for this hospital benefit are the first
three (3) days of eligibility. This limitation of the Contractor's financial
liability is the same regardless of whether the member is enrolled with a RBHA.

COORDINATION OF CARE: The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that a medical
record is established by the PCP when behavioral health information is received
from the RBHA or provider about an assigned member even if the PCP has not yet
seen the assigned member. The Contractor shall also respond to RBHA/provider
information requests pertaining to ADHS enrolled members including, but not
limited to, current diagnosis, medication, pertinent laboratory results, last
PCP visit, and last hospitalization. For prior period coverage, the Contractor
is responsible for payment of all claims for medically necessary covered
behavioral health services to members not enrolled with ADHS.

MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SERVICES: The Contractor shall allow PCPs to provide
medication management services (prescriptions, medication monitoring visits,
laboratory and other diagnostic tests necessary for diagnosis and treatment of
behavioral disorders) to members with diagnoses of depression, anxiety and
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The Contractor shall make available,
on the Contractor's formulary, medications for the treatment of these disorders.

The Contractor shall ensure that training and education is available to PCPs
regarding behavioral health referral and consultation procedures. The Contractor
shall establish policies and procedures for referral and consultation and shall
include them in their provider manual. Also, Contractors shall inform PCPs about
the availability of training and education through the Regional Behavioral
Health Authorities regarding the diagnosis and treatment of behavioral health
disorders.

The Contractor shall ensure that its quality management and peer review programs
incorporate monitoring of the PCP's management of behavioral health disorders.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       17
<PAGE>   24

3.       AHCCCS MEDICAL POLICY MANUAL

The AHCCCS Medical Policy Manual (AMPM) is hereby incorporated by reference into
this contract. The Contractor is responsible for complying with the requirements
set forth within. The AMPM with search capability and linkages to AHCCCS rules,
Statutes and other resources is available to all interested parties through the
AHCCCS Home Page on the Internet (WWW.AHCCCS.STATE.AZ.US). A Contractor may also
request up to three copies (for use by the CEO, Medical Director and Quality
Management staff) in addition to Internet availability. AMPM updates will be
available through the Internet immediately upon adoption by AHCCCSA. Hard copy
updates will only be distributed quarterly. Contractors using one or more hard
copies of the AMPM are responsible for maintaining such copies current with
these updates.

4.       VACCINE FOR CHILDREN PROGRAM

Federal legislation passed in 1993 (OBRA 93) amended Title XIX of the Social
Security Act and created the Vaccine for Children (VFC) program which became
effective 10/1/94. Through this program, the federal and state governments
purchase, and make available to providers free of charge, vaccines for AHCCCS
children under age 19. Therefore, the Contractor shall not utilize AHCCCS
funding to purchase vaccines for members under the age of 19. Any provider,
licensed by the State to administer immunizations, may register with ADHS as a
"VFC provider" and receive free vaccines. The Contractor shall comply with all
VFC requirements and monitor its providers to ensure that, if providing
immunizations to AHCCCS members under the age of 19, the providers are
registered with ADHS/VFC.

5.       DENIALS OR REDUCTIONS OF SERVICES

When a covered service is denied, reduced, suspended or terminated, the
Contractor shall comply with the notice, appeal and continuation of benefits
requirements specified in 42 CFR 431.200 et seq., AAC R9-22, Article 13
outlining members' rights and responsibilities, and AHCCCS policy.

6.       ENROLLMENT AND DISENROLLMENT

AHCCCSA has the exclusive authority to enroll and disenroll members. The
Contractor shall not disenroll any member for any reason unless directed to do
so by AHCCCSA. Eligibility for the various AHCCCS coverage groups is determined
by one of the following agencies:

<TABLE>

<S>                                       <C>
Social  Security Administration (SSA)     SSA determines eligibility for the Supplementary
                                          Security Income (SSI) cash program. SSI Cash recipients
                                          are automatically eligible for AHCCCS coverage.

Department of Economic Security (DES)     DES determines eligibility for the Temporary Assistance to
                                          Needy Families (TANF) program (formerly Aid to Families
                                          with Dependent Children), 1931 Group Medical Assistance
                                          Only (MAO) groups, SOBRA women and children, the Eligible
                                          Assistance Children state program (EAC), the Adoption
                                          Subsidy Program, Title IV-E foster care children, and the
                                          Federal Emergency Services program (FES) related to the
                                          TANF, 1931 Group, or SOBRA programs.
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       18
<PAGE>   25

<TABLE>

<S>                                       <C>
AHCCCSA                                   AHCCCSA determines eligibility for the SSI/MAO groups,
                                          including the FES program related to the SSI-Cash program
                                          (aged, disabled, blind), the Arizona Long-Term Care System
                                          (ALTCS), the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program and
                                          other Medicare cost sharing programs, and the Title XXI
                                          program.

Arizona's 15 Counties                     Each county determines eligibility for the Medically
                                          Needy/Medically Indigent (MN/MI), Eligible Low Income
                                          Children (ELIC), and the State Emergency Services state
                                          programs.
</TABLE>

AHCCCS acute care members are enrolled with contractors in accordance with the
rules set forth in R9. Article 17.

HEALTH PLAN CHOICE

Acute members, except for those eligible under the MN/MI program have a choice
of available health plans. A listing of the available health plans and their
telephone numbers will be given to each applicant during the application process
for AHCCCS benefits. Also included are instructions to applicants to call the
health plans directly with specific questions concerning the health plan. If
there is only one health plan available for the applicant's Geographical Service
Area, no choice is offered. Members who do not choose prior to AHCCCSA's being
notified of their eligibility are automatically assigned to a health plan based
on family continuity or the auto-assignment algorithm.

Title XXI members must select a health plan prior to being determined eligible
and therefore, will not be auto-assigned. When a member is transferred from
Title XIX to Title XXI and has not made a health plan choice for Title XXI, the
member will remain with the Title XIX health plan and a choice notice will be
sent to the member. The member may then change plans no later than 16 days from
the date the choice notice is sent.

AHCCCSA assigns MN/MI members to an available health plan, based on family
continuity or through AHCCCSA's auto-assignment algorithm. These members do not
get a choice of available contractors until their annual enrollment choice
period.

Exceptions to the above enrollment policies for Title XIX and state-only members
include: previously enrolled members who have been disenrolled for less than 90
days will be automatically enrolled with the same contractor, if that contractor
is still available. Also, women whose SOBRA eligibility have terminated and have
become enrolled in the Family Planning Services Extension Program will
automatically remain assigned to the same health plan. The Family Planning
Services Extension Program provides a maximum of 24 months of family planning
services.

The effective date of enrollment for a new Title XIX or state-only member with
the Contractor will generally be the day prior to the date the Contractor
receives notification from AHCCCSA via the daily roster. However, the Contractor
is responsible for payment of medically necessary covered services retroactive
to the member's beginning date of eligibility, excluding any prior quarter
coverage period.

The effective date of enrollment for a Title XXI member will be the first day of
the month following notification to the health plan. If a Title XXI member is
determined eligible by the 25th of the month, the member will be enrolled with
the health plan as of the 1st of the following month. If the member is
determined eligible AFTER the 25th of the month, the member will be enrolled
with the health plan as of the 1st of the second following month.

PRIOR PERIOD COVERAGE: AHCCCS provides prior period coverage for Title XIX and
state-only members. For Title XIX members, prior period coverage starts from the
first day of the month of application, or first eligible month. The Contractor
is responsible for payment of all claims for medically necessary covered
services

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       19
<PAGE>   26

provided to Title XIX members during prior period coverage. For state-only EAC
members, prior period coverage does not apply. For state-only MN/MI and ELIC
members prior period coverage is generally limited to the two days prior to the
date of AHCCCSA being notified of eligibility. However, prior period coverage
could include additional days prior to the date of enrollment. The Contractor is
responsible for payment of all claims for medically necessary covered services
provided on an emergency basis to state-only members pursuant to ARS ss.36-2908
and ARS ss.36-2909 for the first two days of the prior period coverage. Any
additional prior period coverage for state-only members will include all claims
for medically necessary covered services. This may include services provided
prior to the contract year. (See Section D, Paragraph 37, Compensation, for a
description of the Contractor's reimbursement from AHCCCSA for this eligibility
time period.)

NEWBORNS: Newborns born to AHCCCS-eligible mothers, including Title XXI mothers,
who were enrolled at the time of the child's birth and whose newborn
notification was received by AHCCCSA will be enrolled with the mother's health
plan. The Contractor is responsible for notifying AHCCCSA of a child's birth to
an enrolled member. Capitation to the Contractor will begin on the date
notification is received by AHCCCSA (except for cases of births during prior
period coverage). The effective date of AHCCCS eligibility will be the newborn's
date of birth, and the Contractor is responsible for all covered services to the
newborn whether or not AHCCCSA has received notification of the child's birth.
Note that AHCCCSA is currently available to receive notification calls 24 hours
a day, 7 days a week. Title XIX and Title XXI eligible mothers of newborns are
sent a letter advising them of their right to choose a different contractor for
their child; otherwise the child will remain with the mother's contractor.
Newborns of MN/MI mothers are enrolled with the mother's contractor for a
minimum of 30 days up to a maximum of 60 days. Newborns of FES mothers are
auto-assigned to a health plan and mothers of these newborns are sent a letter
advising them of their right to choose a different health plan for their child.

ENROLLMENT GUARANTEES: Upon initial capitated enrollment as a Title XIX-eligible
member, or as an Eligible Assistance Child (EAC), the member is guaranteed a
minimum of five full months of continuous enrollment. Upon initial capitated
enrollment as a Title XXI-eligible member, the member is guaranteed a minimum of
12 full months of continuous enrollment. Enrollment guarantees do not apply to
Native Americans who choose to obtain their covered services through Indian
Health Services (IHS) on a fee-for-service basis or children enrolled with
Department of Economic Security/Comprehensive Medical and Dental Program. The
enrollment guarantee applies a maximum of one time per member per eligibility
category for Title XIX, Title XXI and EAC members. If a member changes from one
contractor to another within the enrollment guarantee period, the remainder of
the guarantee period applies to the new contractor. The enrollment guarantee may
not be granted or may be terminated if the member is incarcerated or, if a minor
child is adopted. AHCCCS Rule R9-22, Article 17 and R9-31, Article 3 describes
other reasons for which the enrollment guarantee may not apply.

NATIVE AMERICANS: Native Americans eligible under any coverage group other than
MN/MI, on or off-reservation, have a choice to receive services from Indian
Health Service (IHS), a PL 93-638 tribal facility or any available contractor.
If choice is not available or made within the specified time limit, Native
American Title XIX and state-only members living on-reservation will be assigned
to IHS and Native American Title XIX and state-only members living
off-reservation will be assigned to an available contractor using AHCCCSA's
family continuity policy and auto-assignment algorithm. Native Americans may
change from IHS to a contractor or from a contractor to IHS at any time. Native
American Title XXI members must make a choice prior to being determined
eligible.

7.       MAINSTREAMING OF AHCCCS MEMBERS

To ensure mainstreaming of AHCCCS members, the Contractor shall take affirmative
action so that members are provided covered services without regard to payer
source, race, color, creed, sex, religion, age, national origin, ancestry,
marital status, sexual preference, or physical or mental handicap, except where
medically indicated. Examples of prohibited practices include, but are not
limited to, the following:

a.       Denying or not providing a member any covered service or access to an
         available facility.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       20
<PAGE>   27

b.       Providing to a member any covered service which is different, or is
         provided in a different manner or at a different time from that
         provided to other members, other public or private patients or the
         public at large except where medically necessary.
c.       Subjecting a member to segregation or separate treatment in any manner
         related to the receipt of any covered service; restricting a member in
         any way in his or her enjoyment of any advantage or privilege enjoyed
         by others receiving any covered service.
d.       The assignment of times or places for the provision of services on the
         basis of the race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, national origin,
         ancestry, marital status, sexual preference, income status, AHCCCS
         membership, or physical or mental handicap of the participants to be
         served.

If the Contractor knowingly executes a subcontract with a provider with the
intent of allowing or permitting the subcontractor to implement barriers to care
(i.e. the terms of the subcontract act to discourage the full utilization of
services by some members), the Contractor will be in default of its contract.

If the Contractor identifies a problem involving discrimination by one of its
providers, it shall promptly intervene and implement a corrective action plan.
Failure to take prompt corrective measures may place the Contractor in default
of its contract.

8.       MEMBER INFORMATION

All informational materials prepared by the Contractor shall be approved by
AHCCCSA prior to distribution to members. The reading level and name of the
evaluation methodology used should be included when 200 members or 5% of the
Contractor's enrolled population, whichever is greater, speak a 2nd language,
the Contractor shall provide member information in that 2nd language. The
Contractor shall comply whenever it is aware that a population meets this
standard. When there are program or service site changes notification will be
provided to the affected members at least 14 days before implementation. The
Contractor shall review and update the Member Handbook at least once a year. The
Handbook must be submitted to AHCCCSA Office of Managed Care for approval by
Sept. 1 of each contract year, or within four weeks of receiving the annual
renewal amendment, whichever is later.

The Contractor shall make every effort to ensure that all information prepared
for distribution to members is written at a 4th grade level.

The Contractor shall produce and provide the following printed information to
each member or family within 10 days of receipt of notification of the
enrollment date:

I.       A MEMBER HANDBOOK which, at a minimum, shall include the following
         items that are also listed in the Office of Managed Care, Operations
         Policy #404, Member Information Policy:

         a.       A table of contents
         b.       A general description of how managed care works, particularly
                  in regards to member responsibilities, appropriate utilization
                  of services and the PCP's role as gatekeeper of services
         c.       A description of all available covered services and an
                  explanation of any service limitations or exclusions from
                  coverage and a notice stating that the Contractor will be
                  liable only for those services authorized by the Contractor.
                  The description should include a brief explanation of the
                  Contractor's approval and denial process.
         d.       Information on what to do when family size changes
         e.       How to obtain a PCP
         f.       How to change PCPs
         g.       How to make, change and cancel appointments with a PCP or
                  dentist
         h.       List of applicable copayments (including a statement that care
                  will not be denied due to lack of copayment). The member
                  handbook must clearly state that members cannot be billed for
                  covered services (other than applicable copayments), what to
                  do if they are billed, and under what circumstances a member
                  may be billed for non-covered services.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       21
<PAGE>   28
         i.       Dual eligibility (i.e. Medicare and Medicaid); services
                  received in and out of the Contractor's network; copayments.
                  See Section D, Paragraph 41, Medicare Services and Cost
                  Sharing.

         j.       The process of referral to specialists and other providers,
                  including access to behavioral health services provided by the
                  ADHS RBHA system.

         k.       How to contact Member Services and a description of its
                  function

         l.       What to do in case of an emergency and instructions for
                  receiving advice on getting care in case of an emergency. In a
                  life-threatening situation, the member handbook should
                  instruct members to use the emergency medical services (EMS)
                  available and/or activate EMS by dialing 9-1-1. Handbook
                  should contain information on proper emergency service
                  utilization.

         m.       How to obtain emergency transportation and medically necessary
                  transportation.

         n.       EPSDT services. Screenings include a comprehensive history and
                  developmental/behavioral health screening, comprehensive
                  unclothed physical examination, appropriate vision testing,
                  hearing testing, laboratory tests, dental screening and
                  immunizations.

         o.       Maternity and family planning services

         p.       Description of covered behavioral health services and how to
                  access them

         q.       Description of all covered dental services for members under
                  21 and how to access these services

         r.       Out of county/out of state moves

         s.       Grievance procedures, including a clear explanation of the
                  member's right to file a grievance and to appeal any decision
                  that affects the member's receipt of covered services.

         t.       Contributions the member can make towards his/her own health,
                  member responsibilities, appropriate and inappropriate
                  behavior, and any other information deemed essential by the
                  Contractor or AHCCCS. This shall include a statement that the
                  member is responsible for protecting his or her ID card and
                  that misuse of the card, including loaning, selling or giving
                  it to others could result in loss of the member's eligibility
                  and/or legal action. A sentence shall be included that
                  stresses the importance of members keeping, not discarding,
                  the swipe ID card.

         u.       How to access after-hours care (urgent care).

         v.       Advance directives for adults

         w.       Use of other sources of insurance. See Section D, Paragraph
                  40, Coordination of Benefits.

         x.       The last revision date

         y.       Member's notification rights and responsibilities under AAC
                  R9-22, Article 13 and AHCCCS policy

         z.       A description of Fraud and Abuse including instructions on how
                  to report suspected fraud or abuse. This shall include a
                  statement that misuse of a member's identification card,
                  including loaning, selling or giving it to others could result
                  in loss of the member's eligibility and/or legal action
                  against the member

         aa.      A statement that informs the member of their right to request
                  information on whether or not the health plan has Physician
                  Incentive Plans (PIP) that affect the use of referral
                  services, the right to know the types of compensation
                  arrangements the plan uses, the right to know whether
                  stop-loss insurance is required and the right to a summary of
                  member survey results. (in accordance with PIP regulation).

         bb.      Member's right to be treated fairly regardless of race,
                  religion, sex, age or ability to pay.

         cc.      Instructions for obtaining culturally competent materials,
                  including translated member materials.

Regardless of the format chosen by the Contractor, the member handbook must be
printed in a type style and size which can easily be read by members with
varying degrees of visual impairment. At a minimum, the member handbook shall
also contain the following language regarding questions, problems and grievances
(Ref. AHCCCS Rule R9-22-518 and R9-31-518):
                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
                                       22
<PAGE>   29
Q.       What if I have any questions, problems or complaints about
         [Contractor's name]?

A.       If you have a question or problem, please call ________ and ask to talk
         to a Member Representative. They are there to help you.

A.       If you have a specific complaint about your medical care, the Member
         Representative will help you.

Q.       What if I'm not happy with the help given to me by the Member
         Representative?

A.       If you are unhappy with the answer you receive, you can tell the Member
         Representative you want to file a written or oral grievance. The
         grievance must be filed not later than 60 days after the date of the
         action, decision, or incident

A.       [Contractor's name] will make a final decision for grievances within 30
         days of receiving your written or oral grievance. A letter will be
         mailed to you stating the health plan's decision and the reason for the
         decision. The letter will tell you how you can appeal the decision if
         you are still unhappy. You must let the health plan know you want to
         appeal the decision letter.

A.       If you are appealing the health plan's decision, [Contractor's name]
         will send your request for appeal to the AHCCCSA. You will receive
         information from AHCCCSA on how your appeal will be handled. AHCCCSA
         will then decide if the health plan's decision was correct under the
         circumstances.

II.      A LIST OF THE NAMES, TELEPHONE NUMBERS AND SERVICE SITE ADDRESSES OF
         PCPS available for selection by the member and a description of the
         selection process. Upon request by the member, the Contractor must make
         information available regarding provider qualifications.

9.       MEMBER SURVEYS

AHCCCSA may periodically conduct a survey of a representative sample of the
Contractor's membership. AHCCCSA will design a questionnaire to assess
accessibility, availability and continuity of care with PCPs; communication
between members and the Contractor, and general member satisfaction with the
AHCCCS program. To ensure comparability of results, the questions to the members
will be the same for all contractors. AHCCCSA will consider suggestions from the
Contractor for questions to be included in each survey. The results of these
surveys will become public information and available to all interested parties
upon request. In addition, the Contractor shall perform its own annual general
or focused member survey. All such contractor surveys must be approved in
advance by AHCCCSA.

10.      MARKETING PLANS

The Contractor shall submit all proposed marketing plans and materials to
AHCCCSA for prior approval in accordance with the AHCCCS Health Plan Marketing
Policy, a copy of which is available in the Bidder's Library. The Contractor
must have signed contracts with hospitals (in Maricopa and Pima counties), PCPs,
specialists and pharmacies in order for them to be included in marketing
materials.

11.      ANNUAL ENROLLMENT CHOICE

AHCCCSA conducts an Annual Enrollment Choice (AEC) for members on their annual
anniversary date. AHCCCSA may hold an open enrollment on a limited basis as
deemed necessary. During AEC, members may change contractors subject to the
availability of other contractors within their Geographic Service Area. Members
are mailed a printed enrollment form and may choose a new contractor by
contacting AHCCCSA to complete the enrollment process. If the member does not
participate in the AEC, no change of contractor will be made (except for
approved changes under the Change of Plan Policy) during the new anniversary
year. This holds true if the Contractor's contract is renewed and the member
continues to live in the Contractor's service area. The Contractor shall comply
with the Office of Managed Care Member Transition for Annual Enrollment Choice
and Other Plan Changes policy.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       23
<PAGE>   30
12.      TRANSITION OF MEMBERS

The Contractor shall comply with the AMPM standards for member transitions
between health plans or GSAs, to or from an ALTCS program contractor, IHS, a PL
93-638 tribal entity, or a Title XXI direct service provider and upon
termination or expiration of a contract. The Contractor shall develop and
implement policies and procedures, which comply with AHCCCS medical policy to
address transition of:

1.       Members with significant medical conditions such as a high-risk
         pregnancy or pregnancy within the last 30 days, the need for organ or
         tissue transplantation, chronic illness resulting in hospitalization or
         nursing facility placement, etc.;

2.       Members who are receiving ongoing services such as dialysis, home
         health, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy or who are hospitalized
         at the time of transition;

3.       Members who have received prior authorization for services such as
         scheduled surgeries, out-of-area specialty services, nursing home
         admission;

4.       Prescriptions, DME and medically necessary transportation ordered for
         the transitioning member by the relinquishing contractor; and

5.       Medical records of the transitioning member (the cost of reproducing
         and forwarding medical records shall be the responsibility of the
         relinquishing AHCCCS contractor).

When relinquishing members, the Contractor is responsible for timely
notification of the receiving contractor regarding pertinent information related
to any special needs of transitioning members. The Contractor, when receiving a
transitioning member with special needs, is responsible to coordinate care with
the relinquishing contractor in order that services not be interrupted, and for
providing the new member with health plan and service information, emergency
numbers and instructions of how to obtain services.

In the event the contract, or any portion thereof, is terminated for any reason,
or expires, the Contractor shall assist AHCCCSA in the transition of its members
to other contractors, and shall abide by standards and protocols set forth
above. In addition, AHCCCSA reserves the right to extend the term of the
contract on a month-to-month basis to assist in any transition of members. The
Contractor shall make provision for continuing all management and administrative
services until the transition of all members is completed and all other
requirements of this contract are satisfied. The Contractor shall be responsible
for providing all reports set forth in this contract and necessary for the
transition process and shall be responsible for the following:

a.       Notification of subcontractors and members.

b.       Payment of all outstanding obligations for medical care rendered to
         members.

c.       Until AHCCCSA is satisfied that the Contractor has paid all such
         obligations, the Contractor shall provide the following reports to
         AHCCCSA:

         1)   A monthly claims aging report by provider/creditor including IBNR
              amounts;

         2)   A monthly summary of cash disbursements;

         3)   Copies of all bank statements received by the Contractor.

              Such  reports shall be due on the fifth day of each succeeding
              month for the prior month.

d.       In the event of termination or suspension of the contract by AHCCCSA,
         such termination or suspension shall not affect the obligation of the
         Contractor to indemnify AHCCCSA for any claim by any third party
         against the State or AHCCCSA arising from the Contractor's performance
         of this contract and for which the Contractor would otherwise be liable
         under this contract.

e.       Any dispute by the Contractor with respect to termination or suspension
         of this contract by AHCCCSA shall be exclusively governed by the
         provisions of Section E, Paragraph 26, Disputes.

f.       Any funds advanced to the Contractor for coverage of members for
         periods after the date of termination shall be returned to AHCCCSA
         within 30 days of termination of the contract.

Members transferred from non-contracting hospitals in order to comply with the
Hospital Reimbursement Pilot Program in Maricopa and Pima Counties shall be
transferred in accordance with the AHCCCS Medical Policy.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       24
<PAGE>   31
Behavioral Health Transition: The Contractor shall fully cooperate with changes
mandated in Laws of 1999, Chapter 313 regarding the transition of Title XIX
non-SMI 18, 19 and 20 year old members and 18 year old Title XXI members to the
ADHS/RBHA system. The Contractor shall cooperate with ADHS, its subcontractors
and their providers in transitioning members' care. To ensure continuity of care
and avoid disruption of medically necessary services, the Contractor shall
adhere to the transition plan developed by AHCCCS.

13.      STAFF REQUIREMENTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

The Contractor shall have in place the organization, management and
administrative systems capable of fulfilling all contract requirements. For the
purposes of this contract, the Contractor shall not employ or contract with any
individual that has been debarred, suspended or otherwise lawfully prohibited
from participating in any public procurement activity. At a minimum, the
following staff is required.

a.       A full-time ADMINISTRATOR who is available at all times to fulfill the
         responsibilities of the position and to oversee the entire operation of
         the health plan.

b.       A MEDICAL DIRECTOR who shall be an Arizona-licensed physician. The
         Medical Director shall be actively involved in all-major clinical
         programs and QM/UM components of the Contractor's health plan. The
         Medical Director shall devote sufficient time to Contractor's health
         plan to ensure timely medical decisions, including after-hours
         consultation as needed.

c.       A full-time CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER who is available at all times to
         fulfill the responsibilities of the position and to oversee the budget
         and accounting systems implemented by the Contractor.

d.       A QUALITY MANAGEMENT/UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR who is an
         Arizona-licensed registered nurse, physician or physician's assistant

e.       A MATERNAL HEALTH/EPSDT COORDINATOR who shall be an Arizona-licensed
         registered nurse, physician or physician's assistant; or have a
         Master's degree in health services, public health or health care
         administration or other related field.

f.       A BEHAVIORAL HEALTH COORDINATOR who shall be a behavioral health
         professional as described in Health Services Rule R9-20. The Behavioral
         Health Coordinator shall devote sufficient time to ensure that the
         Contractor's behavioral health referral and coordination activities are
         implemented per AHCCCSA requirements.

g.       PRIOR AUTHORIZATION STAFF to authorize medical care 24 hours per day, 7
         days per week. This staff shall include an Arizona-licensed registered
         nurse, physician or physician's assistant

h.       CONCURRENT REVIEW STAFF to conduct inpatient concurrent review. This
         staff shall consist of an Arizona-licensed registered nurse, physician,
         physician's assistant or an Arizona-licensed practical nurse
         experienced in concurrent review and under the direct supervision of a
         registered nurse, physician or physician's assistant.

i.       MEMBER SERVICES MANAGER AND STAFF to coordinate communications with
         members and act as member advocates. There shall be sufficient Member
         Service staff to enable members to receive prompt resolution to their
         problems, and to meet the Contractor's standards for telephone
         abandonment rates and telephone hold times.

j.       PROVIDER SERVICES MANAGER AND STAFF to coordinate communications
         between the Contractor and its subcontractors. There shall be
         sufficient Provider Services staff to enable providers to receive
         prompt resolution to their problems or inquiries.

k.       A CLAIMS ADMINISTRATOR AND CLAIMS PROCESSORS to ensure the timely and
         accurate processing of original claims, claims correction letters,
         re-submissions and overall adjudication of claims.

l.       ENCOUNTER PROCESSORS to ensure the timely and accurate processing and
         submission to AHCCCSA of encounter data and reports.

m.       A GRIEVANCE COORDINATOR who will manage and adjudicate member and
         provider grievances.

n.       CLERICAL AND SUPPORT STAFFS to ensure appropriate functioning of the
         Contractor's operation.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       25
<PAGE>   32

The Contractor shall inform AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care, in writing and
provide a resume within seven days of staffing changes in the following key
positions:

<TABLE>
         <S>                                         <C>
         Administrator                               Member Services Manager
         Medical Director                            Provider Services Manager
         Chief Financial Officer                     Claims Administrator
         Maternal Health/EPSDT Coordinator           Quality Management/Utilization Management
         Grievance Coordinator                       Coordinator
                                                     Behavioral Health Coordinator
</TABLE>

The Contractor shall ensure that all staff has appropriate training, education,
experience and orientation to fulfill the requirements of the position. See the
AMPM, Chapter 600 for specific position requirements.

14.      WRITTEN POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND JOB DESCRIPTIONS

The Contractor shall develop and maintain written policies, procedures and job
descriptions for each functional area of its health plan, consistent in format
and style. The Contractor shall maintain written guidelines for developing,
reviewing and approving all policies, procedures and job descriptions. All
policies and procedures shall be reviewed at least annually to ensure that the
Contractor's written policies reflect current practices. Reviewed policies shall
be dated and signed by the Contractor's appropriate manager, coordinator,
director or administrator. All medical and quality management policies must be
approved and signed by the Contractor's Medical Director. Job descriptions shall
be reviewed at least annually to ensure that current duties performed by the
employee reflect written requirements.

15.      ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

The Contractor shall maintain policies and procedures addressing advanced
directives for adult members that specify:

a.       Each contract or agreement with a hospital, nursing facility, home
         health agency, hospice or organization responsible for providing
         personal care must comply with federal and State law regarding advance
         directives for adult members. Requirements include:

         (1)      Maintaining written policies that address the rights of adult
                  members to make decisions about medical care, including the
                  right to accept or refuse medical care, and the right to
                  execute an advance directive. If the agency/organization has a
                  conscientious objection to carrying out an advance directive,
                  it must be explained in policies. (A health care provider is
                  not prohibited from making such objection when made pursuant
                  to ARS ss.36-3205.C.1.)
         (2)      Provide written information to adult members regarding each
                  individual's rights under State law to make decisions
                  regarding medical care, and the health care provider's written
                  policies concerning advance directives (including any
                  conscientious objections).
         (3)      Documenting in the member's medical record whether or not the
                  adult member has been provided the information and whether an
                  advance directive has been executed.
         (4)      Not discriminating against a member because of his or her
                  decision to execute or not execute an advance directive, and
                  not making it a condition for the provision of care.
         (5)      Providing education to staff on issues concerning advance
                  directives including notification of direct care providers of
                  services, such as home health care and personal care, of any
                  advanced directives executed by members to whom they are
                  assigned to provide services.

b.       Contractors shall encourage subcontracted PCPs to comply with the
         requirements of subparagraph a. (2) through (5) above. Contractors
         shall also encourage health care providers specified in subparagraph a.
         to

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       26
<PAGE>   33

         provide a copy of the member's executed advanced directive, or
         documentation of refusal, to the member's PCP for inclusion in the
         member's medical record.

16.      PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

All performance measures described below apply to Title XIX, Title XXI, and
state-only member populations.

Contractors shall strive to meet the AHCCCS stated performance measure goals.
However, it is equally important that Contractors continually improve their
performance measure outcomes from year to year. Improvement in performance is to
be measured by a reduction in the health plan's adverse outcomes. AHCCCS
requires the Contractor to achieve a reduction of ten percent or more from the
previous year's adverse outcomes. The Contractor's performance will also be
evaluated against the adjusted AHCCCS statewide average performance level,
excluding the effect of the Contractor's data.

AHCCCS will require the Contractor to have a quality improvement plan in place
when:

a)       the Contractor has not achieved the AHCCCS statewide performance level
         for any measure but has shown significant improvement, or

b)       the Contractor's rate has declined but is at or above the AHCCCS
         statewide performance level for any measure.

The Contractor will be required to submit a corrective action plan and may be
subject to sanctions if:

a)       the Contractor has not achieved the AHCCCS statewide performance level
         for any measure and has failed to show adequate improvement, or

b)       if the Contractor's rate has declined and fallen below the AHCCCS
         statewide performance level for any measure.

Corrective action plans must be received by the Office of the Medical Director
within 30 days of receipt of notification from AHCCCS. AHCCCS may conduct one or
more follow-up on-site reviews to verify compliance with a corrective action
plan.

EPSDT PARTICIPATION: The Contractor shall take affirmative steps to increase
member participation in the EPSDT program to at least 80% of all enrolled
members under age 21 during CYE 2000. The participant rate is the number of
children receiving at least one medical screen compared to the number of
children expected to receive at least one medical screen. The number of children
expected to receive at least one medical screen is based on the federal
periodicity schedule and the average period of eligibility.

AHCCCSA will measure participation levels through encounter data and will not
use information from prior period coverage (see Paragraph D.6, Prior Period
Coverage) in evaluating the Contractor's performance.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       27
<PAGE>   34
EPSDT IMMUNIZATIONS: The Contractor shall ensure members under age 21 receive
age-appropriate immunizations as specified in the AMPM. During CYE 2000, the
Contractor shall meet or exceed the following:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                Immunization                          Percentage of       Numbers of Doses
                                                         Members
                                                        Immunized
<S>                                                   <C>                 <C>
Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis vaccine (DPT)                82%                   4
Oral/Inactivated Polio Vaccine                              87%                   3
Measles, Mumps, Rubella Vaccine (MMR)                       90%                   1
H. Influenza, Type B (HIB)                                  90%                   1
Hepatitis B (Hep B)                                         87%                   3
Combined 3-Antigen Rate (4 DPT, 3 OPV, 1 MMR)               82%                   8
Combined All Antigen                                        73%                  11
Varicella Vaccine                                           50%                   1
</TABLE>

The Contractor shall conduct an annual immunization audit based on random
sampling to assess and verify the immunization status of two-year-old members.
AHCCCSA will provide the Contractor, within two weeks after the end of the
contract year, the selected sample, specifications for conducting the audit, the
AHCCCSA reporting requirements, and technical assistance. The Contractor shall
identify each child's PCP, conduct the assessment, and report to AHCCCSA in the
required format all immunization data for the sampled two-year-old children no
later than December 15 after the end of the contract year. If medical records
are missing for more than 5% of the sample group, the Contractor is subject to
sanctions by AHCCCSA. The External Quality Review Contractor will conduct a
study to validate the Contractor's reported rates.

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS: For CYE 2000, the Contractor shall comply with AHCCCS
quality management requirements to improve performance for all AHCCCS
established performance indicators. Complete descriptions of these indicators
can be found in the document Health Plan Performance Indicators, User and
Technical Specifications. AHCCCS has established goals for the following
indicators: annual dental visits; well-child visits in the first 15 months of
life; and well-child visits in the 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th years of life.

ANNUAL DENTAL VISITS: The Contractor shall take affirmative steps to increase
utilization of dental services for members under age 21. At least 55% of all
enrolled members between the ages of 3 to 21 shall have at least one dental
visit during CYE 2000. AHCCCSA will monitor utilization through reported
encounter data.

WELL CHILD VISITS IN THE FIRST 15 MONTHS OF LIFE: The Contractor shall ensure
that members under the age of 15 months receive all recommended well-child
visits as specified in the AMPM. During CYE 2000, the Contractor shall ensure
that a minimum of 64% of its members receive all recommended well-child visits.

WELL-CHILD VISITS IN THE 3RD, 4TH, 5TH AND 6TH YEARS OF LIFE: The Contractor
shall ensure that members 3, 4, 5 and 6 years of age receive all recommended
well-child visits as specified in the AMPM. During CYE 2000, the Contractor
shall ensure that a minimum of 64% of its members receive at least one
well-child visit during the contract year.

CHILDREN'S ACCESS TO PRIMARY CARE PRACTITIONERS: The Contractor shall ensure
that members under age 21 have access to primary care provider (PCP) services.
During CYE 2000, the Contractor shall ensure that a minimum of 70% of members
under age 21 visit their PCP at least once during the contract year.

ACCESS TO CARE: AHCCCSA will measure access to care through four new measures:
Provider Turnover, Board Certified/Residence Completed, Provider Compensation
and Availability of Languages. Baselines for these measures will be established
at the beginning of CYE 2000.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       28
<PAGE>   35
17.      QUALITY MANAGEMENT AND UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT (QM/UM)

The Contractor shall provide to members quality medical care as described in the
AMPM, Chapter 900, regardless of payer source or eligibility category. The
Contractor shall institute processes to assess, plan, implement and evaluate
quality improvement activities. The Contractor shall conduct two clinical
studies each contract year as required in Chapter 900 of the AMPM. AHCCCSA will
determine the subject matter and study methodology for one of the annual studies
and the Contractor shall submit to AHCCCSA by November 15 of each contract year
its proposed subject matter and methodology for the other. The results of the
studies shall be submitted to AHCCCS, Office of the Medical Director, within 180
days after the end of each contract year.

The Contractor must maintain a written QM/UM plan, which details plans for
compliance with the AMPM. The Contractor shall incorporate in its QM/UM plan an
action plan for improving the performance rates for those indicators with
established baselines.

18.      PHYSICIAN INCENTIVES

The Contractor must comply with all applicable physician incentive requirements
and conditions defined in 42 CFR 417.479. These regulations prohibit physician
incentive plans that directly or indirectly make payments to a doctor or a group
as an inducement to limit or refuse medically necessary services to a member.
The Contractor is required to disclose all physician incentive agreements to
AHCCCSA and to AHCCCS members who request them.

The Contractor shall not enter into contractual arrangements that place
providers at significant financial risk as defined in CFR 417.479 unless
specifically approved in advance by the Office of Managed Care. In order to
obtain approval, the following must be submitted to the Office of Managed Care
45 days prior to the implementation of the contract:

         1.       A complete copy of the contract

         2.       A plan for the member satisfaction survey

         3.       Details of the stop-loss protection provided

         4.       A summary of the compensation arrangement that meets the
                  substantial financial risk definition.

The Contractor shall disclose to AHCCCSA the information on physician incentive
plans listed in 42 CFR 417.479(h)(1) through 417.479(I) upon contract renewal,
prior to initiation of a new contract, or upon request from AHCCCSA or HCFA.
Please refer to the "Physician Incentive Guidelines" in the Bidder's Library for
details on providing required disclosures.

19.      APPOINTMENT STANDARDS

For purposes of this section, "urgent" is defined as an acute but not
necessarily severe disorder, which, if not attended to, could endanger the
patient's health. The Contractor shall have procedures in place that ensure the
following standards are met:

a.       Emergency PCP appointments -    same day of request

b.       Urgent care PCP appointments -  within two days of request

c.       Routine care PCP appointments - within 21 days of request

For specialty referrals, the Contractor shall be able to provide:

a.       Emergency appointments -        within 24 hours of referral

b.       Urgent care appointments -      within 3 days of referral

c.       Routine care appointments -     within 30 days of referral

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       29
<PAGE>   36
For dental appointments, the Contractor shall be able to provide:

a.       emergency appointments -        within 24 hours of request

b.       urgent appointments -           within 3 days of request

c.       routine care appointments -     within 45 days of request

For maternity care, the Contractor shall be able to provide initial prenatal
care appointments for enrolled pregnant members as follows:

a.       First trimester -               within 14 days of request

b.       Second trimester -              within 7 days of request

c.       Third trimester -               within 3 days of request

d.       High risk pregnancies -         within 3 days of identification of
                                         high risk by the Contractor or
                                         maternity care provider, or immediately
                                         if an emergency exists

If a member needs medically-necessary transportation, the Contractor shall
require its transportation provider to schedule the transportation so that the
member arrives no sooner than one hour before the appointment; does not have to
wait more than one hour after making the call to be picked up; nor have to wait
for more than one hour after conclusion of the appointment for transportation
home.

The Contractor shall actively monitor the adequacy of its appointment processes
and reduce the unnecessary use of alternative methods such as emergency room
visits. The Contractor shall monitor and ensure that a member's waiting time for
a scheduled appointment at the PCP's or specialist's office is no more than 45
minutes, except when the provider is unavailable due to an emergency.

The Contractor shall have written policies and procedures about educating its
provider network about appointment time requirements. The Contractor must assign
a specific staff member or unit within its organization to monitor compliance
with appointment standards and shall require a corrective action plan when
appointment standards are not met.

20.      REFERRAL PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS

The Contractor shall have adequate written procedures regarding referrals to
specialists to include, at a minimum, the following:

a.       Use of referral forms clearly identifying the Contractor

b.       A system for resolving disputes regarding the referrals

c.       Having a process in place that ensures the member's PCP receives all
         specialist and consulting reports and a process to ensure PCP follow-up
         of all referrals including EPSDT referrals for behavioral health
         services

d.       A referral plan for any member who is about to lose eligibility and who
         requests information on low-cost or no-cost health care services

e.       Referral to Medicare HMO including payment of copayments

The Contractor shall comply with all applicable physician referral requirements
and conditions defined in Sections 1903(s) and 1877 of the Social Security Act.
Upon finalization of the regulations, the Contractor shall comply with all
applicable physician referral requirements and conditions defined in 42 CFR Part
411, Part 424, Part 435 and Part 455. Sections 1903(s) and 1877 of the Act
prohibits physicians from making referrals for designated health services to
health care entities with which the physician or a member of the physician's
family has a financial relationship. Designated health services include:

         Clinical laboratory services
         Physical therapy services
         Occupational therapy services
         Radiology services
         Radiation therapy services and supplies

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       30
<PAGE>   37
         Durable medical equipment and supplies
         Parenteral and enteral nutrients, equipment and supplies
         Prosthetics, orthotics and prosthetic devices and supplies
         Home health services
         Outpatient prescription drugs
         Inpatient and outpatient hospital services

21.      PROVIDER MANUAL

The Contractor shall develop, distribute and maintain a provider manual. The
Contractor shall ensure that each contracted provider is issued a copy of the
provider manual and is encouraged to distribute a provider manual to any
individual or group that submits claim and encounter data. The Contractor
remains liable for ensuring that all providers, whether contracted or not, meet
the applicable AHCCCS requirements such as covered services, billing, etc. At a
minimum, the Contractor's provider manual must contain information on the
following:

         a.       Introduction to the Contractor which explains the Contractor's
                  organization and administrative structure

         b.       Provider responsibility and the Contractor's expectation of
                  the provider

         c.       Overview of the Contractor's Provider Service department and
                  function

         d.       Listing and description of covered and non-covered services,
                  requirements and limitations including behavioral health
                  services

         e.       Emergency room utilization (appropriate and non-appropriate
                  use of the emergency room)

         f.       EPSDT Services - screenings include a comprehensive history,
                  developmental/behavioral health screening, comprehensive
                  unclothed physical examination, appropriate vision testing,
                  hearing testing, laboratory tests, dental screenings and
                  immunizations

         g.       Dental services

         h.       Maternity/Family Planning services

         i.       The Contractor's policy regarding PCP assignments

         j.       Referrals to specialists and other providers, including access
                  to behavioral health services provided by the ADHS/RBHA
                  system.

         k.       Grievance and appeal rights

         l.       Billing and encounter submission information

                  -        indicate which form UB92, HCFA 1500, or Form C is to
                           be used for services

                  -        indicate which fields are required for a claim to be
                           considered acceptable by the Contractor. A completed
                           sample of each form shall be included

         m.       Contractor's written policies and procedures which affect the
                  provider(s) and/or the provider network

         n.       Claims re-submission policy and procedure

         o.       Reimbursement, including reimbursement for dual eligibles
                  (i.e. Medicare and Medicaid) or members with other insurance

         p.       Explanation of remittance advice

         q.       Prior authorization requirement

         r.       Claims medical review

         s.       Concurrent review

         t.       Fraud and Abuse

         u.       Formularies (with updates and changes provided in advance to
                  providers, including pharmacies)

         v.       AHCCCS appointment standards

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       31
<PAGE>   38
22.      PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER STANDARDS

The Contractor shall include in its provider network a sufficient number of PCPs
to meet the requirements of this contract. Health care providers designated by
the Contractor as PCPs shall be licensed in Arizona as allopathic or osteopathic
physicians who generally specialize in family practice, internal medicine,
obstetrics, gynecology, or pediatrics; certified nurse practitioners or
certified nurse midwifes; or physician's assistants.

At a minimum, the Contractor's number of full-time equivalent PCPs to enrolled
members shall not exceed a ratio of 1:1800 for adults and 1:1200 for children
who are 12 or younger. If the PCP contracts with more than one AHCCCS health
plan, the ratio shall be adjusted by the Contractor to ensure the total number
of AHCCCS members does not exceed the above ratio. The Contractor should
consider the PCP's total patient panel size (i.e., AHCCCS and non-AHCCCS
patients) when assessing the PCP's ability to meet AHCCCS' appointment and other
standards. In addition, AHCCCS members shall not comprise the majority of the
PCP's panel of patients. The Contractor shall also reduce the number of members
assigned to its network PCPs as necessary to meet the appointment standards
specified in Section D, Paragraph 19, Appointment Standards. Any variation to
the above standards must be submitted to AHCCCSA, Office of the Medical Director
for prior approval. PCPs with assigned members diagnosed with AIDS or as
HIV-positive shall meet criteria and standards set forth in AHCCCS Medical
Policy and AHCCCS AIDS Advisory Committee Guidelines.

The Contractor shall have a system in place to monitor and ensure that each
member is assigned to an individual PCP and that the Contractor's data regarding
PCP assignments is current. The Contractor is encouraged to assign members with
complex medical conditions who are age 12 and younger to Board-certified
pediatricians.

To the extent required by this contract, the Contractor shall offer members
freedom of choice in selecting a PCP. When a new member has been assigned to the
Contractor, the Contractor shall inform the member in writing of his enrollment
and of his PCP assignment within 10 days of the Contractor's receipt of
notification of assignment by AHCCCSA. The Contractor shall include with the
enrollment notification a list of all the Contractor's available PCPs and the
process for changing the PCP assignment, should the member desire to do so. The
Contractor shall confirm any PCP change in writing to the member. Members may
make both their initial PCP selection and any subsequent PCP changes either
verbally or in writing.

At a minimum, the Contractor shall hold the PCP responsible for the following
gatekeeping activities:

a.       Supervision, coordination and provision of care to each assigned member

b.       Initiation of referrals for medically necessary specialty care

c.       Maintaining continuity of care for each assigned member

d.       Maintaining the member's medical record, including documentation of all
         services provided to the member by the PCP, as well as any specialty or
         referral services.

The Contractor shall establish and implement policies and procedures to monitor
PCP gatekeeping activities and to ensure that PCPs are adequately notified of,
and receive documentation regarding, specialty and referral services provided to
assigned members by specialty physicians, dentists and other health care
professionals. Contractor policies and procedures shall be subject to approval
by AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care, and shall be monitored through operational
audits. PCPs and specialists who provide inpatient services to the Contractor's
members shall have admitting and treatment privileges in a minimum of one
general acute care hospital that is located within the Contractor's service
area.

23.      OTHER PROVIDER STANDARDS

The Contractor shall develop and implement policies and procedures to:

a.       Recruit sufficient specialty physicians, dentists, health care
         professionals, health care institutions and support services to meet
         the medical needs of its members.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       32
<PAGE>   39
b.       Monitor the adequacy, accessibility and availability of its provider
         network to meet the needs of its members, including the provision of
         care to members with limited proficiency in English.

Contractor policies shall be subject to approval by AIICCCSA, Office of Managed
Care, and shall be monitored through operational audits.

For specialty services, the Contractor shall ensure that:

a.       PCP referral shall be required for specialty physician services, except
         that women shall have direct access to GYN providers without a referral
         for preventive and routine services. Any waiver of this requirement by
         the Contractor must be approved in advance by AHCCCSA.

b.       Specialty physicians shall not begin a course of treatment for a
         medical condition other than that for which the member was referred,
         unless approved by the member's PCP.

c.       The specialty physicians shall provide to the member's PCP complete
         documentation of all diagnostic services including copies of test
         results if applicable, treatment services provided and the resulting
         outcome for each.

The Contractor shall ensure that a maternity care provider is designated for
each pregnant member for the duration of her pregnancy and postpartum care and
that maternity services are provided in accordance with the AMPM. The Contractor
may include in its provider network the following maternity care providers:

a.       Arizona licensed allopathic and/or osteopathic physicians who are
         general practitioners or specialize in family practice or obstetrics

b.       Certified nurse midwives

c.       Licensed midwives.

Members may choose, or be assigned, a PCP who provides obstetric care (physician
or certified nurse midwife). Such assignment shall be consistent with the
freedom of choice requirements for selecting health care professionals while
ensuring that the continuity of care is not compromised. Members who choose to
receive maternity services from a licensed midwife shall also be assigned to a
PCP for medical care as primary care is not within the scope of practice for
licensed midwives.

All physicians and certified nurse midwives who perform deliveries shall have OB
hospital privileges. Licensed midwives perform deliveries only in the member's
home. Labor and delivery services may also be provided in the member's home by
physicians and certified nurse practitioners and certified nurse midwives who
include such services within their practice.

24.      NETWORK DEVELOPMENT

The Contractor shall develop and maintain a provider network that is sufficient
to provide all covered services to AHCCCS members. It shall ensure covered
services are provided promptly and are reasonably accessible in terms of
location and hours of operation. There shall be sufficient professional and
paramedical personnel for the provision of covered services, including emergency
medical care on a 24-hour-a-day, 7-days-a-week basis. The proposed network shall
be sufficient to provide covered services within designated time and distance
limits. For Maricopa and Pima Counties only, this includes a network such that
95% of its members residing within the boundary area of metropolitan Phoenix and
Tucson do not have to travel more than 5 miles to see a PCP or pharmacy. 95% of
its members residing outside the boundary area must not have to travel more than
10 miles to see such providers. See Attachment B, Minimum Network Requirements,
for details on network requirements by Geographic Service Area. Also see Section
D, Paragraph 35, Hospital Subcontracting and Reimbursement, for details on
changes in hospital subcontracting effective October 1, 1998.

Under the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the Contractor shall not discriminate
with respect to participation in the AHCCCS program, reimbursement or
indemnification against any provider based solely on the provider's type of
licensure or certification. This provision, however, does not prohibit the
Contractor from limiting provider

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       33
<PAGE>   40
participation to the extent necessary to meet the needs of the Contractor's
members. This provision also does not interfere with measures established by the
Contractor to control costs consistent with its responsibilities under this
contract.

25.      NETWORK MANAGEMENT

The Contractor shall have policies and procedures in place that pertains to all
service specifications described in the Chapters 300, 600 and 900. In addition,
the Contractor shall have policies on how the Contractor will:

a.       Communicate with the network regarding contractual and/or program
         changes and requirements

b.       Monitor and control network compliance with policies and rules of
         AHCCCSA and the Contractor, including compliance with all policies and
         procedures related to the grievance process and ensuring the member's
         care is not compromised during the grievance process.

c.       Evaluate the quality of services delivered by the network

d.       Provide or arrange for medically necessary covered services should the
         network become temporarily insufficient within the contracted service
         area

e.       Monitor network capacity to ensure that there are sufficient providers
         to handle the volume of members

f.       Ensure service accessibility, including monitoring appointment
         procedures standards, appointment waiting times, and service provision
         standards

All material changes in the Contractor's provider network must be approved in
advance by AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care. A material change is defined as one,
which affects, or can reasonably be foreseen to affect, the Contractor's ability
to meet the performance and network standards as described in this contract. The
Office of Managed Care must be notified of planned material changes in the
provider network before the change process has begun, for example before issuing
a 60-day termination notice to a provider. The notification shall be made within
one working day if the change is unexpected. AHCCCSA will assess proposed
changes in the Contractor's provider network for potential impact on members'
health care and provide a written response to the Contractor within 14 days of
receipt of request. For emergency situations, AHCCCSA will expedite the approval
process.

The Contractor shall notify AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care, within one working
day of any unexpected changes that would impair its provider network. This
notification shall include (1) information about how the change will affect the
delivery of covered services, and (2) the Contractor's plans for maintaining the
quality of member care if the provider network change is likely to result in
deficient delivery of covered services.

26.      FEDERALLY QUALIFIED HEALTH CENTERS (FQHC)

The Contractor is encouraged to use FQHCs in Arizona to provide covered services
and must comply with the federal mandates in OBRA 89 and OBRA 90. This
legislation gives FQHCs the option to require state Medicaid programs to
reimburse the FQHC at 100% of reasonable costs for the services delivered to
Title XIX members. AHCCCSA and its contractors are required to comply with this
legislation. The following payment methodology for reasonable cost reimbursement
was implemented effective October 1, 1997.

If the FQHC elects reasonable cost reimbursement, the FQHC will receive a
quarterly payment per Title XIX member per month from AHCCCSA. The initial
capitation amount will be $1.75 PMPM statewide. In accordance with the Balanced
Budget Act of 1997, this additional reimbursement will be phased out over a
five-year period beginning in contract year ending 2000:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
         CONTRACT YEAR                       PHASE-OUT PERCENTAGE                PMPM AMOUNT
         <S>                                 <C>                                 <C>
         1997 through 1999                       No phase-out                       $ 1.75
         2000                                            95%                        $ 1.66
         2001                                            90%                        $ 1.58
         2002                                            85%                        $ 1.49
         2003                                            70%                        $ 1.23
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
                                       34
<PAGE>   41
<TABLE>
         <S>                                 <C>                                 <C>
         2004                                           100%                        $ 0.00
</TABLE>

Contractors are required to submit member month information for Title XIX
members for each FQHC on a quarterly basis to AHCCCS Office of Managed Care.
AHCCCSA will perform periodic audits of the member month information submitted.
Contractors should refer to the Office of Managed Care's policy on FQHC
reimbursement for further guidance. The following FQHCs are currently recognized
by HCFA:
            Clinica Adelante, Inc.
            El Rio Health Center
            Lake Powell Medical Center
            Mariposa Community Health Center, Inc.
            Mountain Park Health Center
            Sun Life Family Health Center
            United Community Health Center, Inc.
            Sunset Community Health Center (formerly Valley Health Center, Inc.)
            Inter-Tribal Health Care Center
            Native American Community Health Center, Inc.
            Native Americans for Community Action Family Health Center
            Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc.
            Marana Health Center
            North Country Community Health Center

Any other clinics that subsequently become FQHCs will be subject to the
reimbursement methodology described above upon electing reasonable cost
reimbursement from AHCCCSA.

27.      PROVIDER REGISTRATION

The Contractor shall ensure that all of its subcontractors register with AHCCCSA
as an approved service provider and receive an AHCCCS Provider ID Number. A
Provider Participation Agreement must be signed with each provider who does not
already have a current AHCCCS ID number. The original shall be forwarded to
AHCCCSA. This provider registration process must be completed in order for the
Contractor to report services a subcontractor renders to enrolled members and
for the Contractor to be paid reinsurance.

28.      PROVIDER AFFILIATION TAPE

The Contractor shall submit information quarterly regarding its provider
network. This information shall be submitted in the format described in the
Provider Affiliation Tape User Manual on October 15, January 15, April 15, and
July 15 of each contract year. The Manual may be found in the Bidder's Library.

29.      PERIODIC REPORT REQUIREMENTS

AHCCCSA, under the terms and conditions of its HCFA grant award, requires
periodic reports, encounter data, and other information from the Contractor. The
submission of late, inaccurate, or otherwise incomplete reports shall constitute
failure to report subject to the penalty provisions described in this contract.
Standards applied for determining adequacy of required reports are as follows:

a.       Timeliness:       Reports or other required data shall be received on
                           or before scheduled due dates.

b.       Accuracy:         Reports or other required data shall be prepared in
                           strict conformity with appropriate authoritative
                           sources and/or AHCCCS defined standards.

c.       Completeness:     All  required information shall be fully disclosed
                           in a manner that is both responsive and pertinent
                           to report intent with no material omissions.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       35
<PAGE>   42

AHCCCS requirements regarding reports, report content and frequency of
submission of reports are subject to change at any time dining the term of the
contract. The Contractor shall comply with all changes specified by AHCCCSA.

The Contractor shall be responsible for continued reporting beyond the term of
the contract. For example, processing claims and reporting encounter data will
likely continue beyond the term of the contract because of lag time in filing
source documents by subcontractors.

The Contractor shall comply with all financial reporting requirements contained
in the Reporting Guide for Acute Health Care Contractors with the Arizona Health
Care Cost Containment System, a copy of which may be found in the Bidder's
Library. The required reports, which are subject to change during the contract
term, are summarized in Attachment F, Periodic Report Requirements.

30.      DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION

Upon request, the Contractor shall assist AHCCCSA in the dissemination of
information prepared by AHCCCSA, or the federal government, to its members. The
cost of such dissemination shall be borne by the Contractor. All advertisements,
publications and printed materials which are produced by the Contractor and
refer to covered services shall state that such services are funded under
contract with AHCCCSA.

31.      REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION

AHCCCSA may, at any time during the term of this contract, request financial or
other information from the Contractor. Upon receipt of such requests for
information, the Contractor shall provide complete information as requested no
later than 30 days after the receipt of the request unless otherwise specified
in the request itself.

32.      OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL READINESS REVIEWS

AHCCCSA may conduct Operational and Financial Readiness Reviews on all
successful offerors and will, subject to the availability of resources, provide
technical assistance as appropriate. The Readiness Reviews will be conducted
prior to the start of business for the initial contract year beginning 10/1/97.
The purpose of Readiness Reviews is to assess new contractors' readiness and
ability to provide contract services to members at the start of the contract
year. A new contractor will be permitted to commence operations only if the
Readiness Review factors are met to AHCCCSA's satisfaction.

33.      OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL REVIEWS

In accordance with HCFA requirements, AHCCCSA will conduct regular Operational
and Financial Reviews for the purpose of (but not limited to) ensuring
operational and financial program compliance. The Reviews will identify areas
where improvements can be made and make recommendations accordingly, monitor the
Contractor's progress towards implementing mandated programs and provide the
Contractor with technical assistance if necessary. The Contractor shall comply
with all other medical audit provisions as required by AHCCCS Rule R9-22-52l and
R9-31-521.

The type and duration of the Operational and Financial Review will be solely at
the discretion of AHCCCSA. Except in cases where advance notice is not possible
or advance notice may render the review less useful, AHCCCSA will give the
Contractor at least three weeks advance notice of the date of the on-site
review. In preparation for the on-site Operational and Financial Reviews, the
Contractor shall cooperate fully with AHCCCSA and the AMCCCSA Review Team by
forwarding in advance such policies, procedures, job descriptions, contracts,
logs and other information that AHCCCSA may request. The Contractor shall have
all requested medical records on-site. Any documents not requested in advance by
AHCCCSA shall be made available upon request of the Review Team during the
course of the review. The Contractor personnel as identified in advance shall be
available to the Review Team at all times during AHCCCSA on-site review

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       36
<PAGE>   43
activities. While on-site, the Contractor shall provide the Review Team with
workspace, access to a telephone, electrical outlets and privacy for
conferences. Certain documentation submission requirements may be waived at the
discretion of AHCCCSA if the Contractor has obtained accreditation from NCQA or
any other nationally recognized accrediting body. The Contractor must submit the
entire NCQA report to AHCCCSA for such waiver consideration.

The Contractor will be furnished a copy of the Operational and Financial Review
Report and given an opportunity to comment on any review findings prior to
AHCCCSA publishing the final report. Operational and Financial Review findings
may be used in the scoring of subsequent bid proposals by that Contractor.
Recommendations made by the Review Team to bring the Contractor into compliance
with federal, State, AHCCCS, and/or RFP requirements must be implemented by the
Contractor. AHCCCSA may conduct a follow-up Operational and Financial Review to
determine the Contractor's progress in implementing recommendations and
achieving program compliance. Follow-up reviews may be conducted at any time
after the initial Operational and Financial Review.

AHCCCSA may conduct an Operational and Financial Review in the event the
Contractor undergoes a merger, reorganization, change in ownership or makes
changes in three or more key staff positions within a 12-month period.

34.      CLAIMS PAYMENT SYSTEM

The Contractor shall develop and maintain a claims payment system capable of
processing, cost avoiding and paying claims in accordance with AHCCCS Rule
R9-22-705, a copy of which may be found in the Bidder's Library. In the absence
of a subcontract provision to the contrary, claims submission deadlines shall be
calculated from the date of service or the effective date of enrollment,
whichever is later. Remittance advices accompanying the Contractor's payments to
providers must contain, at a minimum, adequate descriptions of all denials and
adjustments, the reasons for such denials and adjustments, the amount billed,
the amount paid, and grievance rights. The Contractor's claims payment system,
as well as its prior authorization and concurrent review process, must minimize
the likelihood of having to recoup already-paid claims. Any recoupment in excess
of $50,000 per provider within a contract year must be approved in advance by
AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care.

In accordance with the Balanced Budget Act of 1997, the Contractor shall ensure
that 90% of all clean claims are paid within 30 days of receipt of the clean
claim and 99% are paid within 90 days of receipt of the clean claim.

During the term of this contract, AHCCCSA anticipates requiring all health plans
to use a standardized electronic format for electronic claims processing between
the plan and its providers. AHCCCSA plans to require the formats outlined in the
Technical Interface Guidelines under Claims Processing, which is the format
adopted by FFS providers and their billing agents who submit claims
electronically to AHCCCS. The form UB-92 and 1500 layouts will be supplemented
by a Form C layout. All formats are subject to changes initiated by the
Kennedy-Kassebaum legislation. Reasonable implementation timeframes will be
negotiated with each plan.

35.      HOSPITAL SUBCONTRACTING AND REIMBURSEMENT

MARICOPA AND PIMA COUNTIES ONLY: Laws of 1996 Chapter 288 Section 20 authorizes
the Hospital Reimbursement Pilot Program (Pilot), which is effective from
October 1, 1997, through September 30, 2000. The Pilot as defined by AHCCCS Rule
R9-22-718 requires hospital subcontracts to be negotiated between health plans
in Maricopa and Pima counties and hospitals to establish reimbursement levels,
terms and conditions. Subcontracts shall be negotiated by the Contractor and
hospitals to cover operational concerns, such as timeliness of claims submission
and payment, payment of discounts or penalties, legal resolution, which may, as
an option, include establishing arbitration procedures. These negotiated
subcontracts shall remain under close scrutiny by AHCCCSA to insure availability
of quality services within specific service districts, equity of related party
interests, reasonableness of rates, and only marketing of contracted
organizations. The general provisions of this program encompass acute care
hospital services and outpatient

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       37
<PAGE>   44

hospital services that result in an admission. The Contractor shall submit all
hospital subcontracts and any amendments to AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care, for
prior approval. For non-emergency patient-days, the Contractor shall ensure that
at least 85% of its members use contracted hospitals. AHCCCSA reserves the right
to subsequently adjust the 85% standard. Further, if in AHCCCSA's judgment the
number of emergency days at a particular non-contracted hospital becomes
significant, AHCCCSA may require a subcontract at that hospital. Hospitals and
health plans/program contractors outside of Maricopa and Pima counties are not
included in this Pilot. Offerors should refer to the "Hospital Reimbursement
Pilot Program Packet" for additional information and requirements.

ALL GSA'S EXCEPT MARICOPA AND PIMA: The Contractor shall reimburse hospitals for
member care in accordance with AHCCCS Rule R9-22-705. The Contractor is
encouraged to obtain contracts with hospitals in all other GSA's and must submit
copies of these contracts to AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care, at least seven
days prior to the effective dates thereof.

FOR OUT-OF-STATE HOSPITALS: The Contractor shall reimburse out-of-state
hospitals in accordance with AHCCCS Rule R9-22-705.

The Contractor may conduct prepayment and postpayment medical reviews of all
hospital claims including outlier claims. Erroneously paid claims are subject to
recoupment If the Contractor fails to identify lack of medical necessity through
concurrent review and/or prepayment medical review, lack of medical necessity
identified during postpayment medical review shall not constitute a basis for
recoupment by the Contractor. See also Section D, Paragraph 34, Claims Payment
System. For a more complete description of the guidelines for hospital
reimbursement, please consult the Bidder's Library for applicable statutes and
rules.

36.      NURSING FACILITY REIMBURSEMENT

The Contractor shall not deny nursing facility services if the nursing facility
is unable to obtain prior authorization in situations where acute care
eligibility and ALTCS eligibility overlap and the member is enrolled with an
AHCCCS acute care contractor. In such situations, the Contractor shall impose
reasonable authorization requirements. The Contractor's payment responsibility
described above applies only in situations where the nursing facility has not
been notified in advance of the member's enrollment with an AHCCCS acute care
contractor. To further illustrate, when ALTCS eligibility overlaps AHCCCS acute
care enrollment, the acute care enrollment takes precedence. Although the member
could be ALTCS eligible for this time period, there is no ALTCS enrollment that
occurs on the same days as AHCCCS acute enrollment. The Contractor is
responsible for payment of services while the member is enrolled with the
Contractor. The Contractor is not responsible for the full 90 days of nursing
facility coverage if ALTCS enrollment occurs before the 90 days has ended.

The Contractor shall provide medically necessary nursing facility services for
any member who has a pending ALTCS application, who is currently residing in a
nursing facility and is eligible for services provided under this contract. If
the member becomes ALTCS eligible and is enrolled with an ALTCS Program
Contractor before the end of the maximum 90 days of nursing facility coverage,
the Contractor is only responsible for nursing facility coverage during the time
the member is enrolled with the Contractor. Nursing facility services covered by
a third party insurer (including Medicare) while the member is enrolled with the
Contractor shall be applied to the 90 day limitation.

The Contractor shall notify the Assistant Director of the Division of Member
Services in writing, when a member has been residing in a nursing facility for
75 days. This will allow AHCCCSA time to follow-up on the status of the ALTCS
application process and to prepare for potential fee-for-service coverage if the
stay goes beyond the 90-day maximum.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       38
<PAGE>   45
37.      COMPENSATION

The method of compensation under this contract will be Prior Period Coverage
(PPC) capitation, prospective capitation, SOBRA supplement, HIV-AIDS supplement,
reinsurance (PPC and prospective), and third party liability, as described and
defined within this contract and appropriate laws, regulations or policies.

Subject to the availability of funds, AHCCCSA shall make payments to the
Contractor in accordance with the terms of this contract provided that the
Contractor's performance is in compliance with the terms and conditions of this
contract. Payment must comply with requirements of ARS Title 36. AHCCCSA
reserves the option to make payments to the Contractor by wire or National
Automated Clearing House Association (NACHA) transfer and will provide the
Contractor at least 30 days notice prior to the effective date of any such
change.

Where payments are made by electronic funds transfer, AHCCCSA shall not be
liable for any error or delay in transfer nor indirect or consequential damages
arising from the use of the electronic funds transfer process. Any charges or
expenses imposed by the bank for transfers or related actions shall be borne by
the Contractor. Except for adjustments made to correct errors in payment, any
savings remaining to the Contractor as a result of favorable claims experience
and efficiencies in service delivery at the end of the contract term may be kept
by the Contractor.

All funds received by Contractor pursuant to this contract shall be separately
accounted for in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

Except for funds received from the collection of permitted copayments and
third-party liabilities, the only source of payment to Contractor for the
services provided hereunder is the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System
Fund, as described in ARS ss.36-2913. An error discovered by the State with or
without an audit in the amount of fees paid to Contractor will be subject to
adjustment or repayment by Contractor making a corresponding decrease in a
current Contractor's payment or by making an additional payment by AHCCCSA to
the Contractor.

No payment due the Contractor by AHCCCSA may be assigned by the Contractor. This
section shall not prohibit AHCCCSA at its sole option from making payment to a
fiscal agent hired by Contractor.

The Contractor or its subcontractors shall collect any required copayment from
members but service will not be denied for inability to pay the copayment.
Except for permitted copayments, the Contractor or its subcontractors shall not
bill or attempt to collect any fee from, or for, a member for the provision of
covered services. Any required copayments collected shall belong to the
Contractor or its subcontractors.

PRIOR PERIOD COVERAGE (PPC) CAPITATION: The Contractor will be paid capitation
for all PPC member months, including partial member months. This capitation
includes the cost of providing medically necessary covered services to members
during prior period coverage. The PPC capitation rates will be set by AHCCCSA
and will be paid to the Contractor along with the prospective capitation
described below. Contractors will not receive PPC capitation for newborns of
members who were enrolled at the time of delivery.

RECONCILIATION OF PPC COSTS TO REIMBURSEMENT: For CYE `98 and CYE `99, AHCCCSA
will offer a reconciliation process for contractors whose total PPC medical cost
experience (excluding administrative and non-operating expenses) is more than
10% higher than the reimbursement associated with PPC in two areas: the "retro"
portion of the capitation rate for all rate categories, and the prospective
three-day notification period for MNMI recipients only. Expenses for the retro
period only will be net of reinsurance.

AHCCCSA will reimburse 100% of a Contractor's excess reasonable costs in excess
of a 10% limit as determined by reported encounters. AHCCCS will recoup profit
amounts in excess of a 10% limit.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       39
<PAGE>   46
For contract years beginning with CYE `00, a full reconciliation to 0% profit or
loss will be done by AHCCCSA for the same eligibility time periods and risk
groups noted above. AHCCCSA will reimburse the health plans 100% of any excess
reasonable costs as determined by reported encounters, and all profits will be
recouped. Refer to the Office of Managed Care's PPC Reconciliation Policy for
further details of the reconciliation process.

KIDSCARE CAPITATION: The Contractor will be paid capitation for KidsCare members
in the same manner as prospective capitation (see above). KidsCare capitation
rates will be set by AHCCCSA in conjunction with an independent actuary.
Following CYE 99, AHCCCSA will review the assumptions made in setting the
capitation rates and may, at its option, reconcile and/or adjust the rates.

DELIVERY SUPPLEMENT: When the Contractor has an enrolled woman who delivers
during a prospective enrollment period, the Contractor will be entitled to a
supplemental payment. Supplemental payments will not apply to women who deliver
in a prior period coverage time period. AHCCCSA reserves the right at any time
during the term of this contract to adjust the amount of this payment for women
who deliver at home.

HIV-AIDS SUPPLEMENT: In addition to the capitation payment described above, a
separate and additional payment will be made to the Contractor to help defray
costs for members receiving approved protease inhibitors and associated lab work
related to their treatment for HIV/AIDS. The list of AHCCCSA-approved protease
inhibitors is available in the Bidder's Library.

On a quarterly basis, the Contractor shall submit to AHCCCSA, Office of Managed
Care, an unduplicated monthly count of members, by rate code, who are using
approved protease inhibitors. The report shall be submitted, along with the
quarterly financial reporting package, within 60 days after the end of each
quarter.

The rate of reimbursement for this separate per member per month payment is
specified in Section B and is subject to review during the term of the contract.
Payment will be made quarterly to the Contractor based on the reported members
for the preceding quarter. AHCCCSA will review this HIV/AIDS-related data at
least annually as part of its Operational and Financial Review and reserves the
right to recoup any amounts paid for ineligible members as determined through
this review as well as an associated penalty for incorrect reporting.

Refer to the Office of Managed Care's HIV/AIDS supplemental payment and review
policies for further details and requirements.

INCENTIVE FUND: AHCCCSA may retain a specified percentage of capitation
reimbursement in order to distribute to Contractors based on their performance
measure outcomes. AHCCCSA will notify Contractors 60 days prior to a new
contract year if this methodology will be implemented and will provide details
of the reimbursement methodology at that time. See Paragraph 16, Performance
Measurement for more details on the performance goals.

38.      CAPITATION ADJUSTMENTS

Except for changes made specifically in accordance with this contract, the rates
set forth in Section B shall not be subject to re-negotiation or modification
during the contract period. AHCCCSA may, at its option, review the effect of a
program change and determine if a capitation adjustment is needed. In these
instances the adjustment will be prospective with assumptions discussed with the
Contractor prior to modifying capitation rates. The Contractor may request a
review of a program change if it believes the program change was not equitable;
AHCCCSA will not unreasonably withhold such a review.

If the Contractor is in any manner in default in the performance of any
obligation under this contract, AHCCCSA may, at its option and in addition to
other available remedies, adjust the amount of payment until there is
satisfactory resolution of the default. The Contractor shall reimburse AHCCCSA
and/or AHCCCSA may deduct from future monthly capitation for any portion of a
month during which the Contractor was not at risk due to, for example:

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       40
<PAGE>   47
a.       death of a member

b.       member's incarceration (not eligible for AHCCCS benefits from the date
         of incarceration)

c.       duplicate capitation to the same contractor

If a member is enrolled twice with the same contractor, recoupment will be made
as soon as the double capitation is identified. AHCCCSA reserves the right to
modify its policy on capitation recoupments at any time during the term of this
contract.

39.      REINSURANCE

REGULAR ACUTE PROSPECTIVE REINSURANCE: Reinsurance is a stop-loss program
provided by AHCCCSA to the Contractor for the partial reimbursement of covered
inpatient facility medical services incurred for a member with an acute medical
condition beyond an annual deductible (AHCCCS Rule R9-22-503 and R9-31-503). Per
diem rates paid for nursing facility services, including room and board,
provided in lieu of hospitalization for up to 90 days in any contract year shall
be eligible for reinsurance coverage. Refer to the AHCCCS Reinsurance Claims
Processing Manual for further details on the Reinsurance Program. Reinsurance
for the Hospital Reimbursement Pilot Program (See Section D, Paragraph 35,
Hospital Reimbursement), will be paid in accordance with AHCCCS Rule R9-22-503
and R9-31-503.

AHCCCSA is self-insured for the reinsurance program. The program is
characterized by an initial deductible level and a subsequent coinsurance
percentage. The coinsurance percent is the rate at which AHCCCSA will reimburse
the Contractor for inpatient covered services incurred above the deductible.
Prospective reinsurance coverage applies to prospective enrollment periods. The
deductible level is based on the Contractor's statewide AHCCCS acute care
enrollment (not including SOBRA Family Planning Extension services) as of
October 1st each contract year for all rate codes and counties, as shown in the
following table. These deductible levels are subject to change by AHCCCSA during
the term of this contract.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           PROSPECTIVE REINSURANCE                                       PPC REINSURANCE
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   STATEWIDE PLAN           MNMI             NON-MNMI         COINSURANCE       ALL RATE CODES      COINSURANCE
     ENROLLMENT          DEDUCTIBLE         DEDUCTIBLE
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                      <C>                <C>               <C>               <C>                 <C>
0-19,999                   $15,000           $20,000              75%               $5,000              100%
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20,000-49,999              $15,000           $35,000              75%               $5,000              100%
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50,000 and over            $15,000           $50,000              75%               $5,000              100%
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

A Contractor whose enrollment qualifies for the $35,000 or $50,000 non-MN/MI
deductible level may, prior to the start of the contract period, elect one of
the lower deductible levels indicated in the above table. Contractors may not
elect to increase their deductible level. If a Contractor's actual non-MN/MI
deductible is $35,000 or $50,000, AHCCCSA will increase the Contractor's
capitation rate awarded by defined amounts for each capitation risk group. These
specific capitation adjustments are available from the Office of Managed Care.

PRIOR PERIOD COVERAGE REINSURANCE: A separate reinsurance deductible and
coinsurance percentage will apply during prior period coverage. As noted in the
table above, all Contractors, regardless of enrollment, will be subject to a
$5,000 deductible level. The coinsurance percentage for the prior period
coverage reinsurance is 100%. Expenses incurred during prior period coverage
will not apply toward the prospective reinsurance thresholds.

AHCCCSA will use inpatient encounter data to determine prospective and prior
period coverage reinsurance benefits. Reimbursement for these reinsurance
benefits will be made to the Contractor each month. AHCCCSA will also provide
for a reconciliation of reinsurance payments in the case where encounters used
in the calculation of reinsurance benefits are subsequently adjusted or voided.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       41
<PAGE>   48
Effective October 1, 1998, when a member changes Contractors within a contract
year, for reinsurance purposes, all eligible inpatient costs incurred for that
member will follow the member to the receiving health plan. Therefore, all
submitted encounters from the health plan the member is leaving (for dates of
service within the current contract year) will be applied toward the receiving
health plan's deductible level. For further details regarding this policy and
other reinsurance policies refer to the AHCCCS Reinsurance Claims Processing
Manual.

Medical review on prospective and prior period coverage reinsurance cases will
be determined based on statistically valid retrospective random sampling.
AHCCCSA, Office of the Medical Director, will generate the sampling and will
notify the Contractor of documentation needed for the retrospective medical
review process to occur at the Contractor's offices. Reinsurance consideration
will be given to inpatient facility contracts, and hearing decisions rendered by
the Office of Legal Assistance. Pre-hearing and/or hearing penalties
discoverable during the review process will not be reimbursed under reinsurance.
A recoupment of reinsurance reimbursements made to the Contractor will occur
based on the results of the medical review sampling. The results of the medical
review sampling will be separately extrapolated to the entire prospective and
prior period coverage reinsurance reimbursement populations in the review time
frame for the Contractor. AHCCCSA will give the Contractor at least 45 days
advance notice of any on-site review. The Contractor shall have all requested
medical records on-site. Any documents not requested in advance by AHCCCSA shall
be made available upon request of the Review Team during the course of the
review. The Contractor representative shall be available to the Review Team at
all times during AHCCCSA on-site review activities. While on-site, the
Contractor shall provide the Review Team with workspace, access to a telephone,
electrical outlets and privacy for conferences. The Contractor will be furnished
a copy of the Reinsurance Review Report within 60 days of the onsite review and
given an opportunity to comment on any review findings.

CATASTROPHIC REINSURANCE: The reinsurance program also includes a special
Catastrophic Reinsurance program. This program encompasses members diagnosed
with hemophilia, von Willebrand's Disease, and Gaucher's Disease. This program
also covers members who are eligible to receive covered major organ and tissue
transplantation including bone marrow, heart, heart/lung, lung, liver, kidney,
and other organ transplantation. For additional detail and restrictions refer to
the AHCCCS Reinsurance Claims Processing Manual and the AMPM. There are no
deductibles for catastrophic reinsurance cases. All catastrophic claims are
subject to medical review by AHCCCSA.

The Contractor shall notify AHCCCSA, Office of the Medical Director, Reinsurance
Unit, of cases identified for catastrophic non-transplant reinsurance coverage
within 30 days of (a) initial diagnosis, (b) enrollment with the Contractor, and
(c) the beginning of each contract year. Catastrophic reinsurance will be paid
for a maximum 30-day retroactive period from the date of notification to
AHCCCSA.

HEMOPHILIA: When a member is identified as being catastrophically eligible by
AHCCCSA due to the specific diagnosis of hemophilia (ICD9 codes 286.0, 286.1,
286.2), all medically necessary covered services provided during the contract
year shall be eligible for reimbursement at 85% of the Contractor's paid amount.

VON WILLEBRAND'S DISEASE: Catastrophic reinsurance coverage is available for all
members diagnosed with von Willebrand's Disease who are non-DDAVP responders and
dependent on Plasma Factor VIII. The Contractor must promptly notify AHCCCS
Office of the Medical Director Reinsurance Unit after diagnosis. All medically
necessary covered services provided during the contract year shall be eligible
for reimbursement at 85% of the Contractor's paid amount.

GAUCHER'S DISEASE: Catastrophic reinsurance is available for members diagnosed
with Gaucher's Disease classified as Type I and are dependent on enzyme
replacement therapy. All medically necessary covered services provided during
the contract year shall be eligible for reimbursement at 85% of the Contractor's
paid amount.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       42
<PAGE>   49
TRANSPLANTS: Bone grafts and cornea transplantation services are not eligible
for catastrophic reinsurance coverage but are eligible under the regular
(non-catastrophic) reinsurance program. Refer to the AMPM, Chapter 300 for
covered services for organ and tissue transplants. Catastrophic reinsurance
coverage for transplants is limited to 85% of the AHCCCS contract amount for the
transplantation services rendered, or 85% of the Contractor's paid amount,
whichever is lower. The AHCCCS contracted transplantation rates may be found in
the Bidder's Library. When a member is referred to a transplant facility for an
AHCCCS-covered organ transplant, the Contractor shall notify AHCCCSA, Office of
the Medical Director.

Encounter data will not be used to determine catastrophic reinsurance benefits
for transplants. However, this does not relieve the Contractor of the
responsibility for submitting encounters for all catastrophic reinsurance
services.

All reinsurance claims must be submitted in accordance with R9-22-703 and the
AHCCCS Reinsurance Claims Processing Manual.

40.      COORDINATION OF BENEFITS/THIRD PARTY LIABILITY

By law, AHCCCSA is the payer of last resort. This means AHCCCSA shall be used as
a source of payment for covered services only after all other sources of payment
have been exhausted. The two methods used in the coordination of benefits are
cost avoidance and postpayment recovery. See Section D, Paragraph 41, Medicare
Services and Cost Sharing.

COST AVOIDANCE: The Contractor shall cost-avoid all claims or services that are
subject to third-party payment and may deny a service to a member if it knows
that a third party (i.e. other insurer) will provide the service. However, if a
third-party insurer (other than Medicare) requires the member to pay any
copayment, coinsurance or deductible, the Contractor is responsible for making
these payments, even if the services are provided outside of the Contractor's
network. The Contractor's liability for coinsurance and deductibles is limited
to what the Contractor would have paid for the entire service pursuant to a
written contract with the provider or the AHCCCS fee-for-service rate, less any
amount paid by the third party. (The Contractor must decide whether it is more
cost-effective to provide the service within its network or pay coinsurance and
deductibles for a service outside its network. For continuity of care, the
Contractor may also choose to provide the service within its network.) If the
Contractor refers the member for services to a third-party insurer (other than
Medicare), and the insurer requires payment in advance of all copayments,
coinsurance and deductibles, the Contractor must make such payments in advance.

If the Contractor knows that the third party insurer will neither pay for nor
provide the covered service, and the service is medically necessary, the
Contractor shall not deny the service nor require a written denial letter. If
the Contractor does not know whether a particular service is covered by the
third party, and the service is medically necessary, the Contractor shall
contact the third party and determine whether or not such service is covered
rather than requiring the member to do so. (See also Section D, Paragraph 41,
Medicare Services and Cost Sharing.)

The requirement to cost-avoid applies to all AHCCCS covered services. For
pre-natal care and preventive pediatric services, AHCCCS may require the
Contractor to provide such service and then coordinate payment with the
potentially liable third party ("pay and chase"). In emergencies, the Contractor
shall provide the necessary services and then coordinate payment with the
third-party payer. The Contractor shall also provide medically necessary
transportation so the member can receive third-party benefits. Further, if a
service is medically necessary, the Contractor shall ensure that its cost
avoidance efforts do not prevent a member from receiving such service and that
the member shall not be required to pay any coinsurance or deductibles for use
of the other insurer's providers.

POSTPAYMENT RECOVERIES: Postpayment recovery is necessary in cases where the
Contractor was not aware of third-party coverage at the time services were
rendered or paid for, or was unable to cost-avoid. The

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       43
<PAGE>   50
Contractor shall identify all potentially liable third parties and pursue
reimbursement from them except in the circumstances below. The Contractor shall
not pursue reimbursement in the following circumstances unless the case has been
referred to the Contractor by AHCCCSA or AHCCCSA's authorized representative:

<TABLE>
<S>                                                  <C>
Uninsured/underinsured motorist insurance            Adoption recovery
First-and third-party liability insurance            Worker's Compensation
Tortfeasors                                          Estate recovery
Special Treatment Trusts recovery
</TABLE>

The Contractor shall report any cases involving the above circumstances to
AHCCCSA's authorized representative should the Contractor identify such a
situation. See AHCCCS Rule R9-22- 1002 and R9-31-1002. The Contractor shall
cooperate with AHCCCSA's authorized representative in all collection efforts. In
joint cases involving both AHCCCS fee-for-service or reinsurance and the
Contractor, AHCCCSA's authorized representative is responsible for performing
all research, investigation and payment of lien-related costs. AHCCCSA's
authorized representative is also responsible for negotiating and acting in the
best interest of all parties to obtain a reasonable settlement in joint cases
and may compromise a settlement in order to maximize overall reimbursement, net
of legal and other costs. For total plan cases involving only payments from the
Contractor, the Contractor is responsible for performing all research,
investigation, the filing of liens and payment of lien filing fees and other
related costs. The Contractor shall use the cover sheet as prescribed by AHCCCS
when filing liens.

The Contractor may retain up to 100% of its third-party collections if all of
the following conditions exist:

a.       Total collections received do not exceed the total amount of the
         Contractor's financial liability for the member

b.       There are no payments made by AHCCCS related to fee-for-service,
         reinsurance or administrative costs (i.e. lien filing, etc.)

c.       Such recovery is not prohibited by state or federal law

REPORTING: The Contractor may be required to report case level detail of
third-party collections and cost avoidance, including number of referrals on
total plan cases. In addition, upon AHCCCS's request, the Contractor shall
provide an electronic extract of the Casualty cases, including open and closed
cases. Data elements include, but are not limited to: the member's first and
last name; AHCCCS ID; date of incident; claimed amount; paid/recovered amount;
and case status. The AHCCCSA TPL Section shall provide the format and reporting
schedule for this information to the Contractor. The Contractor shall notify
AHCCCSA's authorized representative within five working days of the
identification of a third-party liability case with known reinsurance (often
referred to as joint liability cases). The Contractor shall communicate any
known change in health insurance information, including Medicare, to AHCCCS
Administration, Division of Member Services, not later than 10 days from the
date of discovery using the AHCCCS Third-Party Coverage Form found in the
Bidder's Library.

AHCCCSA will provide the Contractor, on an agreed upon schedule, with a complete
file of all third-party coverage information (other than Medicare) for the
purpose of updating the Contractor's files. The Contractor shall notify AHCCCSA
of any known changes in coverage within deadlines and in a format prescribed by
AHCCCSA.

TITLE XXI (KIDSCARE): Eligibility for KidsCare benefits requires that the
applicant/member not be enrolled with or entitled to any other health insurance
benefits. If the Contractor becomes aware of any such potential coverage, the
Contractor shall notify AHCCCSA immediately. The Contractor shall follow the
same cost avoidance and postpayment recovery practices for the KidsCare
population as it does for the Title XIX population, and shall maintain a
reporting system which allows Title XIX and KidsCare information to be reported
separately.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       44
<PAGE>   51
41.      MEDICARE SERVICES AND COST SHARING

AHCCCS has members enrolled who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare.
These members are referred to as "dual eligible". Generally, Contractors are
responsible for payment of Medicare coinsurance and/or deductibles for covered
services provided to dual eligible members. However, there are different cost
sharing responsibilities that apply to dual eligible members based on a variety
of factors. The Contractor is responsible for adhering to the cost sharing
responsibilities presented in the AHCCCS Medicare Cost Sharing policy. Effective
10/1/97, the Contractor shall have no cost sharing obligation if the Medicare
payment exceeds what the Contractor would have paid for the same service of a
non-Medicare member.

42.      COPAYMENTS

The Contractor is responsible for the collection of copayments from members in
accordance with AHCCCS Rule R9-22-711 and R9-31-711. In accordance with the
requirements mandated by the Balance Budget Act of 1997, the Contractor may not
collect copayments for family planning services.

43.      RECORDS RETENTION

The Contractor shall maintain books and records relating to covered services and
expenditures including reports to AHCCCSA and working papers used in the
preparation of reports to AHCCCSA. The Contractor shall comply with all
specifications for record keeping established by AHCCCSA. All books and records
shall be maintained to the extent and in such detail as required by AHCCCS Rules
and policies. Records shall include but not be limited to financial statements,
records relating to the quality of care, medical records, prescription files and
other records specified by AHCCCSA.

The Contractor agrees to make available at its office at all reasonable times
during the term of this contract and the period set forth in paragraphs a. and
b. below any of its records for inspection, audit or reproduction by any
authorized representative of AHCCCSA, State or federal government.

The Contractor shall preserve and make available all records for a period of
five years from the date of final payment under this contract except as provided
in paragraphs a. and b. below:

a.       If this contract is completely or partially terminated, the records
         relating to the work terminated shall be preserved and made available
         for a period of five years from the date of any such termination.

b.       Records which relate to grievances, disputes, litigation or the
         settlement of claims arising out of the performance of this contract,
         or costs and expenses of this contract to which exception has been
         taken by AHCCCSA, shall be retained by the Contractor for a period of
         five years after the date of final disposition or resolution thereof.

44.      MEDICAL RECORDS

The member's medical record is the property of the provider who generates the
record. Each member is entitled to one copy of his or her medical record free of
charge. The Contractor shall have written policies and procedures to maintain
the confidentiality of all medical records. AHCCCSA shall be afforded access to
all members' medical records whether electronic or paper within 20 working days
of receipt of request.

The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that a medical record is established
when information is received about a member. If the PCP has not yet seen the
member, such information may be kept temporarily in an appropriately labeled
file, in lieu of actually establishing a medical record, but must be associated
with the member's medical record as soon as one is established.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
                                       45

<PAGE>   52
The Contractor shall have written policies and procedures for the maintenance of
medical records so that those records are documented accurately and in a timely
manner, are readily accessible, and permit prompt and systematic retrieval of
information.

The Contractor shall have written standards for documentation on the medical
record for legibility, accuracy and plan of care which comply with the AMPM.

The Contractor shall have written plans for providing training and evaluating
providers' compliance with the Contractor's medical records standards. Medical
records shall be maintained in a detailed and comprehensive manner which
conforms to good professional medical practice, permits effective professional
medical review and medical audit processes, and which facilitates an adequate
system for follow-up treatment. Medical records must be legible, signed and
dated.

When a member changes PCPs, his or her medical records or copies of medical
records must be forwarded to the new PCP within 10 working days from receipt of
the request for transfer of the medical records.

AHCCCSA is not required to obtain written approval from a member before
requesting the member's medical record from the PCP or any other agency. The
Contractor may obtain a copy of a member's medical records without written
approval of the member if the reason for such request is directly related to the
administration of the AHCCCS program.

Information related to fraud and abuse may be released so long as protected
HIV-related information is not disclosed. (ARS ss.36-664I)

45.      ADVANCES, DISTRIBUTIONS, LOANS AND INVESTMENTS

The Contractor shall not, without the prior approval of AHCCCSA, make any
advances to a related party or subcontractor. The Contractor shall not, without
similar prior approval, make any distribution, loan or loan guarantee to any
entity, including another fund or line of business within its organization. All
investments, other than investments in U.S. Government securities or
Certificates of Deposit, also require AHCCCSA prior approval. (See the Reporting
Guide for Acute Care Contractors for alternatives to the prior approval of
individual investments.) All requests for prior approval are to be submitted to
the Office of Managed Care.

46.      ACCUMULATED FUND DEFICIT

The Contractor and its owners shall fund any accumulated fund deficit through
capital contributions in a form acceptable to AHCCCSA within 30 days after
receipt by AHCCCSA of the final audited financial statements, or as otherwise
requested by AHCCCSA. AHCCCSA may, at its option, impose enrollment caps in any
or all GSAs as a result of an accumulated deficit, even if unaudited.

47.      DATA EXCHANGE REQUIREMENT

The Contractor is authorized to exchange data with AHCCCSA relating to the
information requirements of this contract and as required to support the data
elements to be provided AHCCCSA in the format specified in the AHCCCS Technical
Interface Guidelines which is available in the Bidder's Library. The information
so recorded and submitted to AHCCCSA shall be in accordance with all procedures,
policies, rules, or statutes in effect during the term of this contract. If any
of these procedures, policies, rules, regulations or statutes are hereinafter
changed both parties agree to conform to these changes following appropriate
notification to both parties by AHCCCSA.

The Contractor is responsible for any incorrect data, delayed submission or
payment (to the Contractor or its subcontractors), and/or penalty applied due to
any error, omission, deletion, or erroneous insert caused by
Contractor-submitted data. Any data that does not meet the standards required by
AHCCCSA shall not be accepted by AHCCCSA.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
                                       46

<PAGE>   53

The Contractor is responsible for identifying any inconsistencies immediately
upon receipt of data from AHCCCSA. If any unreported inconsistencies are
subsequently discovered, the Contractor shall be responsible for the necessary
adjustments to correct its records at its own expense.

The Contractor shall accept from AHCCCSA original evidence of eligibility and
enrollment in a form appropriate for electronic data exchange. Upon request by
AHCCCSA, the Contractor shall provide to AHCCCSA updated date-sensitive PCP
assignments in a form appropriate for electronic data exchange.

The Contractor shall be provided with a Contractor-specific security code for
use in all data transmissions made in accordance with contract requirements.
Each data transmission by the Contractor shall include the Contractor's security
code. The Contractor agrees that by use of its security code, it certifies that
any data transmitted is accurate and truthful, to the best of the Contractor's
knowledge. The Contractor further agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the
State of Arizona and AHCCCSA from any and all claims or liabilities, including
but not limited to consequential damages, reimbursements or erroneous billings
and reimbursements of attorney fees incurred as a consequence of any error,
omission, deletion or erroneous insert caused by the Contractor in the submitted
input data. Neither the State of Arizona nor AHCCCSA shall be responsible for
any incorrect or delayed payment to the Contractor's AHCCCS services providers
(subcontractors) resulting from such error, omission, deletion, or erroneous
input data caused by the Contractor in the submission of AHCCCS claims.

The publication AHCCCS Contracted Health Plan Technical Interface Guidelines
describes the specific technical and procedural requirements for interfaces
between AHCCCS and the Contractor and its subcontractors. The Contractor is
responsible for complying with all technical requirements as stated in this
manual as well as any subsequent changes to the manual. A copy may be found in
the Bidder's Library.

The costs of software changes are included in administrative costs paid to the
Contractor. There is no separate payment for software changes. A PMMIS systems
contact will be assigned after contract award. AHCCCSA will work with the health
plans as they evaluate Electronic Data Interchange options.

ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE (EDI): IN addition to the requirements outlined in
Section D, Paragraph 34, Claims Payment System, the Contractor will be required
to comply with all EDI standards which result from the Kennedy-Kassebaum
legislation. This law requires the Department of Health and Human Services to
provide national electronic submission standards for health care data and may
include compliance with National Provider Identifier requirements. The Secretary
has 18 months to develop these standards. As the standards are finalized,
AHCCCSA will phase in the implementation. For encounter data transmissions, it
is anticipated that AHCCCS will make these standards available by March 1, 2000.
Effective October 1, 2000, the electronic standards will be required for
encounters. Electronic standards which may be implemented include, but are not
limited to, encounters, enrollment and capitation payments.

YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE: The Contractor shall undertake all appropriate planning
measures to ensure timely compliance with all Year 2000 requirements. In
addition, the Contractor shall develop contingency plans addressing alternative
processes to ensure that operations continue in the event that systems fail.

48.      ENCOUNTER DATA REPORTING

The accurate and timely reporting of encounter data is crucial to the success of
the AHCCCS program. AHCCCSA uses encounter data to pay reinsurance benefits, set
fee-for-service and capitation rates, determine disproportionate share payments
to hospitals, and to determine compliance with performance measures. The
Contractor shall submit encounter data to AHCCCSA for all covered services for
which the Contractor incurred a financial liability, including services provided
during prior period coverage. This requirement is a condition of the HCFA grant
award.

Encounter data must be provided to AHCCCSA by electronic media and must be
submitted in the PMMIS AMCCCSA-supplied formats. Formatting and specific
requirements for encounter data are described in the

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       47

<PAGE>   54
AHCCCS Encounter Reporting User Manual and the AHCCCS Technical Interface
Guidelines, copies of which may be found in the Bidder's Library. The Encounter
Submission Requirements are included herein as Attachment I.

An Encounter Submission Tracking Report must be maintained and made available to
AHCCCSA upon request. The Tracking Report's purpose is to link each claim to an
adjudicated or pended encounter returned to the Contractor. Further information
regarding the Encounter Submission Tracking Report may be found in The Encounter
User's Manual.

49.      MONTHLY ROSTER RECONCILIATION

AHCCCSA produces daily roster updates identifying new members and changes to
members' demographic, eligibility and enrollment data, which the Contractor
shall use to update its member records. The daily roster which is run prior to
the monthly roster is referred to as the "last daily" and will contain all rate
code changes made for the prospective month, as well as any new enrollments and
disenrollments.

The monthly roster is generally produced two days before the end of every month.
The roster will identify the total active population for the Contractor as of
the first day of the next month. This roster contains the information used by
AHCCCSA to produce the monthly capitation payment for the next month. The
Contractor will reconcile their member files with the AHCCCS monthly roster.
After reconciling the monthly roster information, the Contractor resumes posting
daily roster updates beginning with the last two days of the month. The last two
daily rosters are different from the regular daily rosters in that they pay
and/or recoup capitation into the next month.

Refer to the AHCCCS Contracted Health Plan Technical Interface Guidelines
available in the Bidder's Library for additional information.

50.      TERM OF CONTRACT AND OPTION TO RENEW

The initial term of this contract shall be 10/1/97 through 9/30/98. In addition,
AHCCCSA reserves the sole option to extend the term of the contract, not to
exceed a total contracting period of five years. The terms and conditions of any
such contract extension shall remain the same as the original contract, as
amended. Any contract extension, however, shall not affect the maximum
contracting period of five years. All contract extensions shall be through
contract amendment. If, in conjunction with a contract extension, AHCCCSA elects
to increase the capitation rate for any rate code category, such increase will
not exceed the inflation rate recognized by the Arizona Legislature.

If the Contractor has been awarded a contract in more than one GSA, each such
contract will be considered separately renewable. AHCCCSA may renew the
Contractor's contract in one GSA but not in another. In addition, if the
Contractor has had significant problems of non-compliance in one GSA, it may
result in the capping of the Contractor's enrollment in another. Further,
AHCCCSA may require a contractor to renew all GSAs, or may terminate remaining
GSAs if the Contractor does not agree to renew all GSAS.

When AHCCCSA issues an amendment to extend the contract, the provisions of such
extension will be deemed to have been accepted 60 days after the date of mailing
by AHCCCSA, even if the extension amendment has not been signed by the
Contractor, unless within that time the Contractor notifies AHCCCSA in writing
that it refuses to sign the extension amendment. If the Contractor provides such
notification, AHCCCSA will initiate contract termination proceedings.

CONTRACTOR'S NOTICE OF INTENT NOT TO RENEW: If the Contractor chooses not to
renew this contract, the Contractor may be liable for certain costs associated
with the transition of its members to a different health plan. If the Contractor
provides AHCCCSA written notice of its intent not to renew this contract at
least 120 days before its expiration, this liability for transition costs may be
waived by AHCCCSA.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       48

<PAGE>   55
51.      SUBCONTRACTS

The Contractor shall be legally responsible for contract performance whether or
not subcontracts are used. No subcontract shall operate to terminate the legal
responsibility of the Contractor to assure that all activities carried out by
the subcontractor conform to the provisions of this contract. Subject to such
conditions, any function required to be provided by the Contractor pursuant to
this contract may be subcontracted to a qualified person or organization. All
such subcontracts must be in writing. See policy on claims processing by
subcontracted providers in the Bidder's Library.

All subcontracts entered into by the Contractor are subject to prior review and
approval by AHCCCSA, Contracts and Purchasing, and shall incorporate by
reference the terms and conditions of this contract. The following subcontracts
shall be submitted to AHCCCSA Contracting Office for prior approval at least 30
days prior to the beginning date of the subcontract:

a.       Automated data processing

b.       Third-party administrators

c.       Management Services (See also Section D, Paragraphs 53 & 54)

d.       Model subcontracts

e.       Capitated or other risk subcontracts requiring claims processing by the
         subcontractor must be submitted to AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care.

See also Section D, Paragraph 35, Hospital Reimbursement, regarding required
submission of hospital subcontracts.

The Contractor shall maintain a fully executed original of all subcontracts,
which shall be accessible to AHCCCSA within two working days of request by
AHCCCSA. A subcontract is voidable and subject to immediate cancellation by
AHCCCSA in the event any subcontract pertinent to "a" through "e" above is
implemented without the prior written approval of AHCCCSA. All subcontracts
shall comply with the applicable provisions of federal and State laws,
regulations and policies.

The Contractor shall not include covenant-not-to-compete requirements in its
provider agreements. Specifically, the Contractor shall not contract with a
provider and require that the provider not provide services for any other AHCCCS
contractor.

The Contractor must enter into a written agreement with any provider the
Contractor reasonably anticipates will be providing services on its behalf more
than 25 times during the contract year. Exceptions to this requirement include
the following:

a.       If a provider who provides services more than 25 times during the
         contract year refuses to enter into a written agreement with the
         Contractor, the Contractor shall submit documentation of such refusal
         to AHCCCS Office of Managed Care within seven days of its final attempt
         to gain such agreement.

b.       If a provider performs emergency services such as an emergency room
         physician or an ambulance company, a written agreement is not required.

These and any other exceptions to this requirement must be approved by AHCCCS
Office of Managed Care. Each subcontract must contain verbatim all the
provisions of Attachment A, Minimum Subcontract Provisions. In addition, each
subcontract must contain the following:

a.       Full disclosure of the method and amount of compensation or other
         consideration to be received by the subcontractor. See Section D,
         Paragraph 35, Hospital Subcontracting and Reimbursement

b.       Identification of the name and address of the subcontractor.

c.       Identification of the population, to include patient capacity, to be
         covered by the subcontractor.

d.       The amount, duration and scope of medical services to be provided, and
         for which compensation will be paid.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       49

<PAGE>   56
e.       The term of the subcontract including beginning and ending dates,
         methods of extension, termination and re-negotiation.

f.       The specific duties of the subcontractor relating to coordination of
         benefits and determination of third-party liability.

g.       A provision that the subcontractor agrees to identify Medicare and
         other third-party liability coverage and to seek such Medicare or third
         party liability payment before submitting claims to the
         Contractor/Contractor.

h.       A description of the subcontractor's patient, medical and cost record
         keeping system.

i.       Specification that the subcontractor shall cooperate with quality
         assurance programs and comply with the utilization control and review
         procedures specified in 42 CFR Part 456, as implemented by AHCCCSA.

j.       A provision stating that a merger, reorganization or change in
         ownership of a subcontractor that is related to or affiliated with the
         Contractor shall require a contract amendment and prior approval of
         AHCCCSA.

k.       Procedures for enrollment or re-enrollment of the covered population.

l.       A provision that the subcontractor shall be fully responsible for all
         tax obligations, Worker's Compensation Insurance, and all other
         applicable insurance coverage obligations which arise under this
         subcontract, for itself and its employees, and that AHCCSA shall have
         no responsibility or liability for any such taxes or insurance
         coverage.

m.       A provision that the subcontractor must obtain any necessary
         authorization from the Contractor or AHCCCSA for services provided to
         eligible and/or enrolled members.

n.       A provision that the subcontractor must comply with encounter reporting
         and claims submission requirements as described in the subcontract.

52.      SPECIALTY CONTRACTS

AHCCCSA may at any time negotiate or contract on behalf of the Contractor and
AHCCCSA for specialized hospital and medical services. AHCCCSA will consider
existing Contractor resources in the development and execution of specialty
contracts. AHCCCSA may require the Contractor to modify its delivery network to
accommodate the provisions of specialty contracts. Specialty contracts shall
take precedence over and supersede existing and future subcontracts for services
that are subject to specialty contracts. AHCCCSA may consider waiving this
requirement in particular situations if such action is determined to be in the
best interest of the State; however, in no case shall reimbursement for
transplant surgery exceed that payable under the relevant AHCCCSA specialty
contract.

During the term of specialty contracts, AHCCCSA may act as an intermediary
between the Contractor and specialty contractors to enhance the cost
effectiveness of service delivery. AHCCCSA reserves the right to make direct
payments to specialty contractors on behalf of the Contractor. Adjudication of
claims related to such payments provided under specialty contracts shall remain
the responsibility of the Contractor. AHCCCSA may provide technical assistance
prior to the implementation of any specialty contracts. AHCCCSA shall provide at
least 60 days advance written notice to the Contractor prior to the
implementation of any specialty contract.

53.      MANAGEMENT SERVICES SUBCONTRACTORS

All proposed management services subcontracts and/or corporate cost allocation
plans must be approved in advance by AHCCCSA Contracting Office as described in
Section D, Paragraph 51, Subcontracts. Cost allocation plans must be submitted
with the proposed management fee agreement. AHCCCSA reserves the right to
perform a thorough review of actual management fees charged and/or corporate
allocations made. If the fees or allocations actually paid out are determined to
be unjustified or excessive, amounts may be subject to repayment to the
Contractor, the Contractor may be placed on monthly financial reporting, and/or
financial sanctions may be imposed.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       50

<PAGE>   57
54.      MANAGEMENT SERVICES SUBCONTRACTOR AUDITS

All management services subcontractors that have oversight responsibilities for
the Contractor's program operations (such as third-party administrators) are
required to have an annual financial audit. A copy of this audit shall be
submitted to AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care, within 120 days of the
subcontractor's fiscal year end. If services billed by a consultant or actuary
are less than $50,000, AHCCCSA will waive the requirement for an audit of that
consultant or actuary.

55.      MINIMUM CAPITALIZATION REQUIREMENTS

In order to be considered for contract award, the Offeror must meet a minimum
capitalization requirement for each GSA bid. The capitalization requirement for
both new and continuing offerors must be met within 15 days after contract
award.

Minimum capitalization requirements by GSA are as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Geographic Service Area                        Capitalization Requirement
<S>             <C>                            <C>
GSA #2          Yuma                                          $ 1,400,000
GSA #4          Mohave, La Paz                                  1,150,000
GSA #6          Yavapai, Coconino                               1,250,000
GSA #8          Pinal, Gila                                     1,450,000
GSA #10         Pima                                            1,250,000
GSA #12         Maricopa                                        2,500,000
GSA #14         Graham, Greenlee                                  350,000
GSA #16         Apache, Navajo                                    650,000
GSA #18         Cochise, Santa Cruz                             1,450,000
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

NEW OFFERORS: To be considered for a contract award in a given GSA or group of
GSAs, a new offeror must meet the minimum capitalization requirements listed
above. The capitalization requirement is subject to a $5,000,000 ceiling
regardless of the number of GSAs awarded. This requirement is in addition to the
Performance Bond requirements defined in Paragraphs 56 and 57 below and must be
met with cash with no encumbrances, such as a loan subject to repayment. The
capitalization requirements may be applied toward meeting the equity per member
requirement (see Section D, Paragraph 58, Financial Viability Criteria) and is
intended for use in operations of the Contractor.

CONTINUING OFFERORS: Continuing offerors that are bidding a county or GSA that
they are currently servicing must meet the equity per member standard (see
Section D, Paragraph 58, Financial Viability Criteria) for their current
membership. Continuing offerors that do not meet the equity standard must fund
through capital contribution the necessary amount to meet this requirement.
Continuing offerors that are bidding a new GSA must provide the additional
capitalization for the new GSA they are bidding. (See the table of requirements
by GSA above). Continuing offerors will not be required to provide additional
capitalization if they currently meet the equity per member standard with their
existing membership and their excess equity is sufficient to cover the proposed
additional members, or they have at least $5,000,000 in equity.

56.      PERFORMANCE BOND OR BOND SUBSTITUTE

The Contractor shall be required to provide a performance bond of standard
commercial scope issued by a surety company doing business in this State, an
irrevocable letter of credit, or a cash deposit ("Performance Bond") to AHCCCSA
for as long as the Contractor has AHCCCS-related liabilities of $50,000 or more
outstanding, or 15 months following the effective date of this contract,
whichever is later, to guarantee: (1) payment of the

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       51

<PAGE>   58
Contractor's obligations to providers, non-contracting providers, and
non-providers; and (2) performance by the Contractor of its obligations under
this contract. The Performance Bond shall be in a form acceptable to AHCCCSA as
described in the AHCCCS Performance Bond policy available in the Office of
Managed Care.

In the event of a default by the Contractor, AHCCCSA shall, in addition to any
other remedies it may have under this contract, obtain payment under the
Performance Bond or substitute security for the purposes of the following:

a.       Paying any damages sustained by providers, non-contracting providers
         and nonproviders by reason of a breach of the Contractor's obligations
         under this contract,

b.       Reimbursing AHCCCSA for any payments made by AHCCCSA on behalf of the
         Contractor, and

c.       Reimbursing AHCCCSA for any extraordinary administrative expenses
         incurred by reason of a breach of the Contractor's obligations under
         this contract, including, but not limited to, expenses incurred after
         termination of this contract for reasons other than the convenience of
         the State by AHCCCSA.

In the event AHCCCSA agrees to accept substitute security in lieu of the
Performance Bond, irrevocable letter of credit or cash deposit, the Contractor
agrees to execute any and all documents and perform any and all acts necessary
to secure and enforce AHCCCSA's security interest in such substitute security
including, but not limited to, security agreements and necessary UCC filings
pursuant to the Arizona Uniform Commercial Code. In the event such substitute
security is agreed to and accepted by AHCCCSA, the Contractor acknowledges that
it has granted AHCCCSA a security interest in such substitute security to secure
performance of its obligations under this contract. The Contractor is solely
responsible for establishing the credit-worthiness of all forms of substitute
security. AHCCCSA may, after written notice to the Contractor, withdraw its
permission for substitute security, in which case the Contractor shall provide
AHCCCSA with a form of security described above. The Contractor may not change
the amount, duration or scope of the performance bond without prior written
approval from AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care.

57.      AMOUNT OF PERFORMANCE BOND

The initial amount of the Performance Bond shall be equal to 110% of the total
capitation payment expected to be paid in the month of October 1997, or as
determined by AHCCCSA. The total capitation amount shall include SOBRA
supplemental payments. This requirement must be satisfied by the Contractor not
later than 15 days after notification by AHCCCSA of the amount required.
Thereafter, AHCCCSA shall evaluate the enrollment statistics of the Contractor
on a monthly basis. If there is an increase in capitation payment that exceeds
10% of the performance bond amount, AHCCCSA may require an increase in the
amount of the Performance Bond. The Contractor shall have 15 days following
notification by AHCCCSA to increase the amount of the Performance Bond. The
Performance Bond amount that must be maintained after the contract term shall be
sufficient to cover all outstanding liabilities and will be determined by
AHCCCSA. The Contractor may not change the amount of the performance bond
without prior written approval from AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care.

58.      FINANCIAL VIABILITY CRITERIA/ PERFORMANCE MEASURES

AHCCCSA has established the following financial viability criteria/performance
goals:

CURRENT RATIO                      Current assets divided by current
                                   liabilities. "Current assets" includes any
                                   long-term investments that can be converted
                                   to cash within 24 hours without significant
                                   penalty (i.e., greater than 20%).

                                   STANDARD:  AT LEAST 1.00

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       52
<PAGE>   59
EQUITY PER MEMBER                  Equity, less on-balance sheet performance
                                   bond, divided by the number of non-SOBRA
                                   Family Planning Extension Services members
                                   enrolled at the end of the period.

                                   STANDARD: AT LEAST $150

                                   (Failure to meet this standard may result in
                                   an enrollment cap being imposed in any or all
                                   contracted GSA.)

MEDICAL EXPENSE RATIO              Total medical expenses (net of reinsurance,
                                   TPL, HIV/AIDS Supplement) divided by total
                                   capitation + SOBRA.

                                   STANDARD:  AT LEAST 85%

ADMINISTRATIVE COST                Total administrative expenses (excluding
PERCENTAGE:                        income taxes), divided by total capitation +
                                   SOBRA + TPL + reinsurance + HIV/AIDS
                                   Supplement

                                   STANDARD:  NO MORE THAN 10%

RECEIVED BUT UNPAID                Received but unpaid claims divided by the
CLAIMS (DAYS                       average daily medical expenses for the
OUTSTANDING)                       period, net of sub-capitation expense

                                   STANDARD:  NO MORE THAN 30 DAYS

59.      MERGER, REORGANIZATION AND CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP

A proposed merger, reorganization or change in ownership of the Contractor
health plan shall require prior approval of AHCCCSA and a subsequent contract
amendment. The Contractor must submit a detailed merger, reorganization and/or
transition plan to AHCCCSA Contracting Office for AHCCCSA review. The purpose of
the plan review is to ensure uninterrupted services to members, evaluate the new
entity's ability to support the provider network, ensure that services to
members are not diminished and that major components of the organization and
AHCCCS programs are not adversely affected by such merger, reorganization or
change in ownership.

60.      SANCTIONS

AHCCCSA may suspend, deny, refuse to renew, or terminate this contract or any
related subcontracts in accordance with AHCCCS Rules R9-22-405 and R9-31-405 and
the terms of this contract and applicable federal or State law and regulations.
AHCCCSA may, in addition to these remedies, impose monetary sanctions if the
Contractor violates any provision stated in law or this contract in accordance
with AHCCCS Rules R9-22-406 and R9-31-406 and the provisions of this contract,
applicable federal or State law and regulations. Written notice will be provided
to the Contractor specifying the sanction to be imposed, the grounds for such
sanction and either the length of suspension or the amount of capitation
prepayment to be withheld. The Contractor may appeal the decision to impose a
sanction in accordance with AHCCCS Rule R9-22-804.

In addition to the above remedies, AHCCCSA may, at its option, impose partial or
full enrollment caps on the Contractor. Among the contract violations that may
result in an enrollment cap are, but are not limited to, the following:

a.       Marketing violations

b.       Failure to meet AHCCCS financial viability standards

c.       Material deficiency in the Contractor's provider network

d.       Quality of care and quality management issues

e.       Failure to meet AHCCCS encounter standards

CURE NOTICE PROCESS: Prior to the imposition of a sanction for non-compliance,
AHCCCSA may provide a written cure notice to the Contractor regarding the
details of the non-compliance. The cure notice will specify the

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       53

<PAGE>   60
period of time during which the Contractor must bring its performance back into
compliance with contract requirements. If, at the end of the specified time
period, the Contractor has complied with the cure notice requirements, AHCCCSA
will take no further action. If, however, the Contractor has not complied with
the cure notice requirements, AHCCCSA will proceed with the imposition of
sanctions.

61.      AUTO-ASSIGNMENT ALGORITHM

Members who do not have the right to choose a contractor or members who have the
right to choose but do not exercise this right, are assigned to contractors
through an auto-assignment algorithm. The algorithm is a mathematical formula
used to distribute members to the various contractors in a manner that is
predictable and consistent with AHCCCSA goals. The algorithm favors those
contractors with lower capitation rates. For further details on the AHCCCS
Auto-Assignment Algorithm, refer to Attachment G. AHCCCSA may change the
algorithm at any time during the term of the contract and frequently does so in
response to contractor-specific issues of non-compliance (e.g. imposition of an
enrollment cap). The Contractor should consider this in preparing its response
to this RFP. AHCCCSA is not obligated to adjust for any financial impacts this
may have on the Contractor.

62.      GRIEVANCE PROCESS AND STANDARDS

The Contractor shall have in place a written grievance policy for members and
providers, which defines their rights regarding any adverse action by the
Contractor. This written policy shall be in accordance with applicable federal
and State law and AHCCCS Rules and policy including, but not limited to, AHCCCS
Rules R9-22-512; R9-22-518(A); R9-22-802; R9-31-802; R9-22-804 and R9-31-803.
The grievance process may not be delegated or subcontracted outside of the
health plan. Refer to Attachment H for a complete description of grievance
process requirements.

63.      QUARTERLY GRIEVANCE REPORT

The Contractor shall submit a Quarterly Grievance Report to AHCCCSA, Office of
Legal Assistance, using the Quarterly Grievance Report Format on file in the
Bidder's Library. The Quarterly Grievance Report must be received by the
AHCCCSA, Office of Legal Assistance, no later than 45 days from the end of the
quarter.

64.      KIDSCARE

On November 1, 1998, AHCCCSA implemented a Title XXI Children's Health Insurance
Program, referred to as "KidsCare". KidsCare provides health care coverage
statewide to eligible children 18 and younger and is provided through the
existing AHCCCS health plans, state employee HMOs that elect to participate, and
tribal facilities or Indian Health Service for Native Americans who elect to
receive services through them. Services will also be directly provided by
participating community health clinics and hospitals which predominantly serve
low income children.

The KidsCare service package is established by the legislature and approved by
HCFA through the State Plan. Services, limitations and exclusions are described
in Section D, Paragraph 1, Scope of Services. Capitation rates payable to the
Contractor for KidsCare members (age 18 and younger) will be set by AHCCCSA in
conjunction with an independent actuary.

Effective October 1,1999, KidsCare members in families with gross household
income over 150% and up to 200% of the federal poverty limit shall pay a premium
to AHCCCSA. The premium amount shall be based on the number of members in the
household and the gross family income in accordance with 9A.A.A.C., Article 14.

TITLE XXI PARENT/GUARDIAN HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE: ARS ss.36.2984 mandates
that the Contractor offer health insurance coverage to the parent(s) or legal
guardian(s) of a child who is eligible for Title XXI. The Contractor shall
establish rates for this coverage which must be approved by AHCCCSA, Office of
Managed

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       54

<PAGE>   61

Care, prior to implementation. Title XXI funds or any other federal or state
funds shall not be used to subsidize family coverage. The full cost of the
premium shall be paid by the parent or legal guardian who elects this coverage.
The Contractor may include provisions for pre-existing conditions and any other
medical underwriting considerations that are necessary to protect it from
adverse risk. For further information, refer to the Title XXI Parent/Guardian
Health Insurance Coverage Guidelines on file in the Bidder's Library.

65.      PENDING LEGISLATIVE ISSUES

In addition to the requirements described in this RFP, there are several
legislative issues that could have an impact on services provided by the
Contractor on or after October 1, 1998. The following is a brief description of
the issues that AHCCCS is aware of at the time of the issuance of this renewal
amendment:

ELIGIBILITY BASED ON 100% OF THE FEDERAL POVERTY LEVEL (FPL): Through a
successful initiative effort, eligibility for AHCCCS has been expanded to allow
persons with income up to 100% of the FPL to become eligible for the Medicaid
program. Legislative action will be required to implement this new eligibility
guideline and HCFA must approve the expansion. If HCFA approval is granted,
there will be a significant number of new persons who will be eligible for the
program and enrolled with the health plans at some future date.

                               [END OF SECTION D]

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       55
<PAGE>   62
                           SECTION E: CONTRACT CLAUSES
                                Table of Contents

<TABLE>
<S>                                                                                                    <C>
1    APPLICABLE LAW.....................................................................................57
2    AUTHORITY..........................................................................................57
3    ORDER OF PRECEDENCE................................................................................57
4    CONTRACT INTERPRETATION AND AMENDMENT..............................................................57
5    SEVERABILITY.......................................................................................57
6    RELATIONSHIP OF PARTIES............................................................................57
7    ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION..........................................................................58
8    GENERAL INDEMNIFICATION............................................................................58
9    INDEMNIFICATION -- PATENT AND COPYRIGHT............................................................58
10   COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS.............................................58
11   ADVERTISING AND PROMOTION OF CONTRACT..............................................................58
12   PROPERTY OF THE STATE..............................................................................58
13   THIRD PARTY ANTITRUST VIOLATIONS...................................................................58
14   RIGHT TO ASSURANCE.................................................................................58
15   TERMINATION FOR CONFLICT OF INTEREST...............................................................59
16   GRATUITIES.........................................................................................59
17   SUSPENSION OR DEBARMENT............................................................................59
18   TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE........................................................................59
19   TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT............................................................................60
20   TERMINATION - AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS................................................................60
21   RIGHT OF OFFSET....................................................................................60
22   NON-EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES.............................................................................60
23   NON-DISCRIMINATION.................................................................................60
24   EFFECTIVE DATE.....................................................................................60
25   INSURANCE..........................................................................................61
26   DISPUTES...........................................................................................61
27   RIGHT TO INSPECT PLANT OR PLACE OF BUSINESS........................................................61
28   INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE.........................................................................62
29   COVENANT AGAINST CONTINGENT FEES...................................................................62
30   CHANGES............................................................................................62
31   TYPE OF CONTRACT...................................................................................62
32   AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT....................................................................62
33   WARRANTY OF SERVICES...............................................................................62
34   NO GUARANTEED QUANTITIES...........................................................................62
35   CONFLICT OF INTEREST ..............................................................................63
36   DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION.............................................................63
37   COOPERATION WITH OTHER CONTRACTORS.................................................................63
38   ASSIGNMENT OF CONTRACT AND BANKRUPTCY..............................................................63
39   OWNERSHIP OF INFORMATION AND DATA..................................................................63
40   AHCCCSA RIGHT TO OPERATE CONTRACTOR................................................................64
41   AUDITS AND INSPECTIONS.............................................................................64
42   FRAUD AND ABUSE....................................................................................64
43   LOBBYING...........................................................................................64
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       56
<PAGE>   63

                           SECTION E: CONTRACT CLAUSES

1.       APPLICABLE LAW

Arizona Law - The law of Arizona applies to this contract including, where
applicable, the Uniform Commercial Code, as adopted in the State of Arizona.

Implied Contract Terms - Each provision of law and any terms required by law to
be in this contract are a part of this contract as if fully stated in it.

2.       AUTHORITY

This contract is issued under the authority of the Contracting Officer who
signed this contract. Changes to the contract, including the addition of work or
materials, the revision of payment terms, or the substitution of work or
materials, directed by an unauthorized state employee or made unilaterally by
the Contractor are violations of the contract and of applicable law. Such
changes, including unauthorized written contract amendments, shall be void and
without effect, and the Contractor shall not be entitled to any claim under this
contract based on those changes.

3.       ORDER OF PRECEDENCE

The parties to this contract shall be bound by all terms and conditions
contained herein. For interpreting such terms and conditions the following
sources shall have precedence in descending order: The Constitution and laws of
the United States and applicable federal regulations; the terms of the HCFA 1115
waiver for the State of Arizona; the Constitution and laws of Arizona, and
applicable State rules; the terms of this contract, including all attachments
and executed amendments and modifications; AHCCCSA policies and procedures.

4.       CONTRACT INTERPRETATION AND AMENDMENT

No Parol Evidence - This contract is intended by the parties as a final and
complete expression of their agreement. No course of prior dealings between the
parties and no usage of the trade shall supplement or explain any term used in
this contract.

No Waiver - Either party's failure to insist on strict performance of any term
or condition of the contract shall not be deemed a waiver of that term or
condition even if the party accepting or acquiescing in the non-conforming
performance knows of the nature of the performance and fails to object to it.

Written Contract Amendments - The contract shall be modified only through a
written contract amendment within the scope of the contract signed by the
procurement officer on behalf of the State.

5.       SEVERABILITY

The provisions of this contract are severable to the extent that any provision
or application held to be invalid shall not affect any other provision or
application of the contract which may remain in effect without the invalid
provision or application.

6.       RELATIONSHIP OF PARTIES

The Contractor under this contract is an independent contractor. Neither party
to this contract shall be deemed to be the employee or agent of the other party
to the contract.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       57

<PAGE>   64

7.       ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION

The Contractor shall not assign any right nor delegate any duty under this
contract without prior written approval of the Contracting Officer, who will not
unreasonably withhold such approval.

8.       GENERAL INDEMNIFICATION

The Contractor shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the State from any
claim, demand, suit, liability, judgment and expense (including attorney's fees
and other costs of litigation) arising out of or relating to injury, disease, or
death of persons or damage to or loss of property resulting from or in
connection with the negligent performance of this contract by the Contractor,
its agents, employees, and subcontractors or anyone for whom the Contractor may
be responsible. The obligations, indemnities and liabilities assumed by the
Contractor under this paragraph shall not extend to any liability caused by the
negligence of the State or its employees. The Contractor's liability shall not
be limited by any provisions or limits of insurance set forth in this contract.
The State shall reasonably notify the Contractor of any claim for which it may
be liable under this paragraph.

9.       INDEMNIFICATION - PATENT AND COPYRIGHT

The Contractor shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the State against any
liability including costs and expenses for infringement of any patent, trademark
or copyright arising out of contract performance or use by the State of
materials furnished or work performed under this contract. The State shall
reasonably notify the Contractor of any claim for which it may be liable under
this paragraph.

10.      COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS

The materials and services supplied under this contract shall comply with all
applicable federal, state and local laws, and the Contractor shall maintain all
applicable licenses and permits.

11.      ADVERTISING AND PROMOTION OF CONTRACT

The Contractor shall not advertise or publish information for commercial benefit
concerning this contract without the prior written approval of the Contracting
Officer.

12.      PROPERTY OF THE STATE

Any materials, including reports, computer programs and other deliverables,
created under this contract are the sole property of AHCCCSA. The Contractor is
not entitled to a patent or copyright on those materials and may not transfer
the patent or copyright to anyone else. The Contractor shall not use or release
these materials without the prior written consent of AHCCCSA.

13.      THIRD PARTY ANTITRUST VIOLATIONS

The Contractor assigns to the State any claim for overcharges resulting from
antitrust violations to the extent that those violations concern materials or
services supplied by third parties to the Contractor toward fulfillment of this
contract.

14.      RIGHT TO ASSURANCE

If AHCCCSA, in good faith, has reason to believe that the Contractor does not
intend to perform or continue performing this contract, the procurement officer
may demand in writing that the Contractor give a written assurance of intent to
perform. The demand shall be sent to the Contractor by certified

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       58

<PAGE>   65

mail, return receipt required. Failure by the Contractor to provide written
assurance within the number of days specified in the demand may, at the State's
option, be the basis for terminating the contract.

15.      TERMINATION FOR CONFLICT OF INTEREST

AHCCCSA may cancel this contract without penalty or further obligation if any
person significantly involved in initiating, negotiating, securing, drafting or
creating the contract on behalf of AHCCCSA is, or becomes at any time while the
contract or any extension of the contract is in effect, an employee of, or a
consultant to, any other party to this contract with respect to the subject
matter of the contract The cancellation shall be effective when the Contractor
receives written notice of the cancellation unless the notice specifies a later
time.

16.      GRATUITIES

AHCCCSA may, by written notice to the Contractor, immediately terminate this
contract if it determines that employment or a gratuity was offered or made by
the Contractor or a representative of the Contractor to any officer or employee
of the State for the purpose of influencing the outcome of the procurement or
securing the contract, an amendment to the contract, or favorable treatment
concerning the contract, including the making of any determination or decision
about contract performance. AHCCCSA, in addition to any other rights or
remedies, shall be entitled to recover exemplary damages in the amount of three
times the value of the gratuity offered by the Contractor.

17.      SUSPENSION OR DEBARMENT

The Contractor shall not employ, consult, subcontract or enter into any
agreement for Title XIX services with any person or entity who is debarred,
suspended or otherwise excluded from federal procurement activity. This
prohibition extends to any entity which employs, consults, subcontracts with or
otherwise reimburses for services any person substantially involved in the
management of another entity which is debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded
from federal procurement activity.

The Contractor shall not retain as a director, officer, partner or owner of 5%
or more of the Contractor entity, any person, or affiliate of such a person, who
is debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from federal procurement activity.

AHCCCSA may, by written notice to the Contractor, immediately terminate this
contract if it determines that the Contractor has been debarred, suspended or
otherwise lawfully prohibited from participating in any public procurement
activity.

18.      TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE

AHCCCSA reserves the right to terminate the contract in whole or in part at any
time for the convenience of the State without penalty or recourse. The
Contracting Officer shall give written notice by certified mail, return receipt
requested, to the Contractor of the termination at least 90 days before the
effective date of the termination. In the event of termination under this
paragraph, all documents, data and reports prepared by the Contractor under the
contract shall become the property of and be delivered to AHCCCSA. The
Contractor shall be entitled to receive just and equitable compensation for work
in progress, work completed and materials accepted before the effective date of
the termination.

19.      TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT

AHCCCSA reserves the right to terminate this contract in whole or in part due to
the failure of the Contractor to comply with any term or condition of the
contract or failure to take corrective action as

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       59

<PAGE>   66

required by AHCCCSA to comply with the terms of the contract. If the Contractor
is providing services under more than one contract with AHCCCSA, AHCCCSA may
deem unsatisfactory performance under one contract to be cause to require the
Contractor to provide assurance of performance under any and all other
contracts. In such situations, AHCCCSA reserves the right to seek remedies under
both actual and anticipatory breaches of contract if adequate assurance of
performance is not received. The Contracting Officer shall mail written notice
of the termination and the reason(s) for it to the Contractor by certified mail,
return receipt requested.

In the event the Contractor requests a hearing prior to termination, AHCCCSA is
required by the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to oversee the operation of the
Contractor entity through appointment of temporary management prior to the
hearing.

Upon termination under this paragraph, all documents, data, and reports prepared
by the Contractor under the contract shall become the property of and be
delivered to AHCCCSA on demand.

AHCCCSA may, upon termination of this contract, procure, on terms and in the
manner that it deems appropriate, materials or services to replace those under
this contract. The Contractor shall be liable for any excess costs incurred by
AHCCCSA in re-procuring the materials or services.

20.      TERMINATION - AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS

Funds are not presently available for performance under this contract beyond the
current fiscal year. No legal liability on the part of AHCCCSA for any payment
may arise under this contract until funds are made available for performance of
this contract.

21.      RIGHT OF OFFSET

AHCCCSA shall be entitled to offset against any amounts due the Contractor any
expenses or costs incurred by AHCCCSA concerning the Contractor's non-conforming
performance or failure to perform the contract.

22.      NON-EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES

The rights and the remedies of AHCCCSA under this contract are not exclusive.

23.      NON-DISCRIMINATION

The Contractor shall comply with State Executive Order No. 75-5, which mandates
that all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin or
political affiliation, shall have equal access to employment opportunities, and
all other applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations, including
the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Contractor shall take positive action
to ensure that applicants for employment, employees, and persons to whom it
provides service are not discriminated against due to race, creed, color,
religion, sex, national origin or disability.

24.      EFFECTIVE DATE

The effective date of this contract shall be the date that the Contracting
Officer signs the award page (page 1) of this contract.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       60

<PAGE>   67

25.      INSURANCE

A certificate of insurance naming the State of Arizona and AHCCCSA as the
"additional insured" must be submitted to AHCCCSA within 10 days of notification
of contract award and prior to commencement of any services under this contract.
This insurance shall be provided by carriers rated as "A+" or higher by the A.M.
Best Rating Service. The following types and levels of insurance coverage are
required for this contract:

a.       Commercial General Liability: Provides coverage of at least $1,000,000
         for each occurrence for bodily injury and property damage to others as
         a result of accidents on the premises of or as the result of operations
         of the Contractor.

b.       Commercial Automobile Liability: Provides coverage of at least
         $1,000,000 for each occurrence for bodily injury and property damage to
         others resulting from accidents caused by vehicles operated by the
         Contractor.

c.       Workers Compensation: Provides coverage to employees of the Contractor
         for injuries sustained in the course of their employment. Coverage must
         meet the obligations imposed by federal and state statutes and must
         also include Employer's Liability minimum coverage of $100,000.
         Evidence of qualified self-insured status will also be considered.

d.       Professional Liability (if applicable): Provides coverage for alleged
         professional misconduct or lack of ordinary skills in the performance
         of a professional act of service.

The above coverages may be evidenced by either one of the following:

a.       The State of Arizona Certificate of Insurance: This is a form with the
         special conditions required by the contract already pre-printed on the
         form. The Contractor's agent or broker must fill in the pertinent
         policy information and ensure the required special conditions are
         included in the Contractor's policy.

b.       The Acord form: This standard insurance industry certificate of
         insurance does not contain the pre-printed special conditions required
         by this contract. These conditions must be entered on the certificate
         by the agent or broker and read as follows:

                  The State of Arizona and Arizona Health Care Cost Containment
                  System are hereby added as additional insureds. Coverages
                  afforded under this Certificate shall be primary and any
                  insurance carried by the State or any of its agencies, boards,
                  departments or commissions shall be in excess of that provided
                  by the insured Contractor. No policy shall expire, be canceled
                  or materially changed without 30 days written notice to the
                  State. This Certificate is not valid unless countersigned by
                  an authorized representative of the insurance company.

26.      DISPUTES

The exclusive manner for the Contractor to assert any claim, grievance, dispute
or demand against AHCCCSA shall be in accordance with AHCCCS Rule R9-28-804(C).
Pending the final resolution of any disputes involving this contract, the
Contractor shall proceed with performance of this contract in accordance with
AHCCCSA's instructions, unless AHCCCSA specifically, in writing, requests
termination or a temporary suspension of performance.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       61

<PAGE>   68
27.      RIGHT TO INSPECT PLANT OR PLACE OF BUSINESS

AHCCCSA may, at reasonable times, inspect the part of the plant or place of
business of the Contractor or subcontractor which is related to the performance
of this contract, in accordance with ARS ss.41-2547.

28.      INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This solicitation and all attachments and amendments, the Contractor's proposal,
best and final offer accepted by AHCCCSA, and any approved subcontracts are
hereby incorporated by reference into the contract.

29.      COVENANT AGAINST CONTINGENT FEE

The Contractor warrants that no person or agency has been employed or retained
to solicit or secure this contract upon an agreement or understanding for a
commission, percentage, brokerage or contingent fee. For violation of this
warranty, AHCCCSA shall have the right to annul this contract without liability.

30.      CHANGES

AHCCCSA may at any time, by written notice to the Contractor, make changes
within the general scope of this contract. If any such change causes an increase
or decrease in the cost of, or the time required for, performance of any part of
the work under this contract, the Contractor may assert its right to an
adjustment in compensation paid under this contract. The Contractor must assert
its right to such adjustment within 30 days from the date of receipt of the
change notice. Any dispute or disagreement caused by such notice shall
constitute a dispute within the meaning of Section E, Paragraph 26, Disputes,
and be administered accordingly.

When AHCCCSA issues an amendment to modify the contract, the provisions of such
amendment will be deemed to have been accepted 60 days after the date of mailing
by AHCCCSA, even if the amendment has not been signed by the Contractor, unless
within that time the Contractor notifies AHCCCSA in writing that it refuses to
sign the amendment. If the Contractor provides such notification, AHCCCSA will
initiate termination proceedings.

31.      TYPE OF CONTRACT

Firm Fixed-Price

32.      AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

People with disabilities may request special accommodations such as
interpreters, alternative formats or assistance with physical accessibility.
Requests for special accommodations must be made with at least three days prior
notice by calling Doug Peeples at (602) 417-4538.

33.      WARRANTY OF SERVICES

The Contractor warrants that all services provided under this contract will
conform to the requirements stated herein. AHCCCSA's acceptance of services
provided by the Contractor shall not relieve the Contractor from its obligations
under this warranty. In addition to its other remedies, AHCCCSA may, at the
Contractor's expense, require prompt correction of any services failing to meet
the Contractor's warranty herein. Services corrected by the Contractor shall be
subject to all of the provisions of this contract in the manner and to the same
extent as the services originally furnished.

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       62

<PAGE>   69
34.      NO GUARANTEED QUANTITIES

AHCCCSA does not guarantee the Contractor any minimum or maximum quantity of
services or goods to be provided under this contract.

35.      CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The Contractor shall not undertake any work that represents a potential conflict
of interest, or which is not in the best interest of AHCCCSA or the State
without prior written approval by AHCCCSA. The Contractor shall fully and
completely disclose any situation which may present a conflict of interest. If
the Contractor is now performing or elects to perform during the term of this
contract any services for any AHCCCS health plan, provider or Contractor or an
entity owning or controlling same, the Contractor shall disclose this
relationship prior to accepting any assignment involving such party.

36.      DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

The Contractor shall not, without prior written approval from AHCCCSA, either
during or after the performance of the services required by this contract, use,
other than for such performance, or disclose to any person other than AHCCCSA
personnel with a need to know, any information, data, material, or exhibits
created, developed, produced, or otherwise obtained during the course of the
work required by this contract. This nondisclosure requirement shall also
pertain to any information contained in reports, documents, or other records
furnished to the Contractor by AHCCCSA.

37.      COOPERATION WITH OTHER CONTRACTORS

AHCCCSA may award other contracts for additional work related to this contract
and Contractor shall fully cooperate with such other contractors and AHCCCSA
employees or designated agents, and carefully fit its own work to such other
contractors' work. Contractor shall not commit or permit any act which will
interfere with the performance of work by any other contractor or by AHCCCSA
employees.

38.      ASSIGNMENT OF CONTRACT AND BANKRUPTCY

This contract is voidable and subject to immediate cancellation by AHCCCSA upon
Contractor becoming insolvent or filing proceedings in bankruptcy or
reorganization under the United States Code, or assigning rights or obligations
under this contract without the prior written consent of AHCCCSA.

39.      OWNERSHIP OF INFORMATION AND DATA

Any data or information system, including all software, documentation and
manuals, developed by Contractor pursuant to this contract, shall be deemed to
be owned by AHCCCSA. The federal government reserves a royalty-free,
nonexclusive, and irrevocable license to reproduce, publish, or otherwise use
and to authorize others to use for federal government purposes, such data or
information system, software, documentation and manuals. Proprietary software
which is provided at established catalog or market prices and sold or leased to
the general public shall not be subject to the ownership or licensing provisions
of this section.

Data, information and reports collected or prepared by Contractor in the course
of performing its duties and obligations under this contract shall be deemed to
be owned by AHCCCSA. The ownership provision is in consideration of Contractor's
use of public funds in collecting or preparing such data, information and
reports. These items shall not be used by Contractor for any independent project
of Contractor or publicized by Contractor without the prior written permission
of AHCCCSA. Subject to applicable state and federal laws and regulations,
AHCCCSA shall have full and complete rights to

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       63

<PAGE>   70
reproduce, duplicate, disclose and otherwise use all such information. At the
termination of the contract, Contractor shall make available all such data to
AHCCCSA within 30 days following termination of the contract or such longer
period as approved by AHCCCSA, Office of the Director. For purposes of this
subsection, the term "data" shall not include member medical records.

Except as otherwise provided in this section, if any copyrightable or patentable
material is developed by Contractor in the course of performance of this
contract, the federal government, AHCCCSA and the State of Arizona shall have a
royalty-free, nonexclusive, and irrevocable right to reproduce, publish, or
otherwise use, and to authorize others to use, the work for state or federal
government purposes. Contractor shall additionally be subject to the applicable
provisions of 45 CFR Part 74 and 45 CFR Parts 6 and 8.

40.      AHCCCSA RIGHT TO OPERATE CONTRACTOR

If, in the judgment of AHCCCSA, Contractor's performance is in material breach
of the contract or Contractor is insolvent, AHCCCSA may directly operate
Contractor to assure delivery of care to members enrolled with Contractor until
cure by Contractor of its breach, by demonstrated financial solvency or until
the successful transition of those members to other contractors.

41.      AUDITS AND INSPECTIONS

The Contractor shall comply with all provisions specified in applicable AHCCCS
Rule R9-22-519, -520 and -521 and AHCCCS policies and procedures relating to the
audit of Contractor's records and the inspection of Contractor's facilities.
Contractor shall fully cooperate with AHCCCSA staff and allow them reasonable
access to Contractor's staff, subcontractors, members, and records.

At any time during the term of this contract, the Contractor's or any
subcontractor's books and records shall be subject to audit by AHCCCSA and,
where applicable, the federal government, to the extent that the books and
records relate to the performance of the contract or subcontracts.

AHCCCSA and the federal government may evaluate through on-site inspection or
other means, the quality, appropriateness and timeliness of services performed
under this contract.

42.      FRAUD AND ABUSE

It shall be the responsibility of the Contractor to report all cases of
suspected fraud and abuse by subcontractors, members or employees. The
Contractor shall provide written notification of all such incidents to AHCCCSA.
The Contractor shall comply with the AHCCCS Health Plans and Program Contractors
Policy for Prevention, Detection and Reporting of Fraud and Abuse which is
available in the Bidder's Library and incorporated herein by reference.

As stated in ARS ss.13-2310, incorporated herein by reference, any person who
knowingly obtains any benefit by means of false or fraudulent pretenses,
representations, promises or material omissions is guilty of a class 2 felony.

43.      LOBBYING

No funds paid to the Contractor by AHCCCSA, or interest earned thereon, shall be
used for the purpose of influencing or attempting to influence an officer or
employee of any federal or State agency, a member of the United States Congress
or State Legislature, an officer or employee of a member of the United States
Congress or State Legislature in connection with awarding of any federal or
State contract, the making of any federal or State grant, the making of any
federal or State loan, the entering into of any

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       64

<PAGE>   71
cooperative agreement, and the extension, continuation, renewal, amendment or
modification of any federal or State contract, grant, loan, or cooperative
agreement. The Contractor shall disclose if any funds other than those paid to
the Contractor by AHCCCSA have been used or will be used to influence the
persons and entities indicated above and will assist AHCCCSA in making such
disclosures to HCFA.

                               [END OF SECTION E]

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

                                       65
<PAGE>   72
ATTACHMENT A:  MINIMUM SUBCONTRACT PROVISIONS

[The following provisions must be included verbatim in every subcontract]

1.       EVALUATION OF QUALITY, APPROPRIATENESS, OR TIMELINESS OF SERVICES

The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System Administration (AHCCCSA) or the
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services may evaluate, through inspection or
other means, the quality, appropriateness or timeliness of services performed
under this subcontract.

2.       RECORDS AND REPORTS

The Subcontractor shall maintain all forms, records, reports and working papers
used in the preparation of reports, files, correspondence, financial statements,
records relating to quality of care, medical records, prescription files,
statistical information and other records specified by AHCCCSA for purposes of
audit and program management. The Subcontractor shall comply with all
specifications for record-keeping established by AHCCCSA. All books and records
shall be maintained to the extent and in such detail as shall properly reflect
each service provided and all net costs, direct and indirect, of labor,
materials, equipment, supplies and services, and other costs and expenses of
whatever nature for which payment is made to the Subcontractor. Such material
shall be subject to inspection and copying by the state, AHCCCSA and the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services during normal business hours at the
place of business of the person or organization maintaining the records.

The Subcontractor agrees to make available at the office of the Subcontractor,
at all times reasonable times, any of its records for inspection, audit or
reproduction, by any authorized representative of the state or federal
governments.

The Subcontractor shall preserve and make available all records for a period of
five years from the date of final payment under this subcontract except as
provided in paragraphs a. and b. below:

a.       If this subcontract is completely or partially terminated, the records
relating to the work terminated shall be preserved and made available for a
period of five years from the date of any such termination.

b.       Records which relate to disputes, litigation or the settlement of
claims arising out of the performance of this subcontract, or costs and expenses
of this subcontract to which exception has been taken by the state, shall be
retained by the Subcontractor until such disputes, litigation, claims or
exceptions have been disposed of.

The Subcontractor shall provide all reports requested by AHCCCSA, and all
information from records relating to the performance of the Subcontractor which
AHCCCSA may reasonably require. The Subcontractor reporting requirements may
include, but are not limited to, timely and detailed utilization statistics,
information and reports.

The Subcontractor shall certify to the Program Contractor that it has not
engaged in conduct prohibited by ss. 1128B of the Social Security Act (42 USC
1320a-7b).

                                      A-1
<PAGE>   73

3.       LIMITATIONS ON BILLING AND COLLECTION PRACTICES

The Subcontractor shall not bill, nor attempt to collect payment directly or
through a collection agency from a person claiming to be AHCCCS eligible without
first receiving verification from AHCCCSA that the person was ineligible for
AHCCCS on the date of service, or that services provided were not AHCCCS covered
services. This provision shall not apply to patient contributions to the cost of
services delivered by nursing homes.

4.       ASSIGNMENT AND DELEGATION OF RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

No payment due the Subcontractor under this subcontract may be assigned without
the prior approval of AHCCCSA. No assignment or delegation of the duties of this
subcontract shall be valid unless prior written approval is received from
AHCCCSA.

5.       APPROVAL OF SUBCONTRACTS, AMENDMENTS OR TERMINATIONS

This subcontract is subject to prior approval by AHCCCSA. The Program Contractor
shall notify AHCCCSA in the event of any proposed amendment or termination
during the term hereof. Any such amendment or termination is subject to the
prior approval of AHCCCSA. Approval of the subcontract may be rescinded by the
Director of AHCCCSA for violation of federal or state laws or rules.

6.       WARRANTY OF SERVICES

The Subcontractor, by execution of this subcontract, warrants that it has the
ability, authority, skill, expertise and capacity to perform the services
specified in this contract.

7.       SUBJECTION OF SUBCONTRACT

The terms of this subcontract shall be subject to the applicable material terms
and conditions of the contract existing between the Program Contractor and
AHCCCSA for the provision of covered services.

8.       AWARDS OF OTHER SUBCONTRACTS

AHCCCSA and/or the Program Contractor may undertake or award other contracts for
additional or related work to the work performed by the Subcontractor and the
Subcontractor shall fully cooperate with such other contractors, subcontractors
or state employees. The Subcontractor shall not commit or permit any act which
will interfere with the performance of work by any other contractor,
subcontractor or state employee.

9.       INDEMNIFICATION BY SUBCONTRACTOR

The Subcontractor agrees to hold harmless the state, all state officers and
employees, AHCCCSA and other appropriate state agencies, and all officers and
employees of AHCCCSA and all AHCCCS eligible persons in the event of nonpayment
to the Subcontractor. The Subcontractor shall further indemnify and hold
harmless the state, AHCCCSA, other appropriate state agencies, AHCCCS
contractors, and their agents, officers and employees against all injuries,
deaths, losses, damages, claims, suits, liabilities, judgments, costs and
expenses which may, in any manner, accrue against the State, AHCCCSA or its

                                      A-2
<PAGE>   74

agents, officers or employees, or AHCCCS contractors, through the intentional
conduct, negligence or omission of the Subcontractor, its agent, officers or
employees.

10.      MAINTENANCE OF REQUIREMENTS TO DO BUSINESS AND PROVIDE SERVICES

The Subcontractor shall be registered with AHCCCSA and shall obtain and maintain
all licenses, permits and authority necessary to do business and render service
under this subcontract and, where applicable, shall comply with all laws
regarding safety, unemployment insurance, disability insurance and worker's
compensation.

11.      COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

The Subcontractor shall comply with all federal, State and local laws, rules,
regulations, standards and executive orders governing performance of duties
under this subcontract, without limitation to those designated within this
subcontract.

12.      SEVERABILITY

If any provision of these standard subcontract terms and conditions is held
invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall continue valid and
enforceable to the full extent permitted by law.

13.      VOIDABILITY OF SUBCONTRACT

This subcontract is voidable and subject to immediate termination by AHCCCSA
upon the Subcontractor becoming insolvent or filing proceedings in bankruptcy or
reorganization under the United States Code, or upon assignment or delegation of
the subcontract without AHCCCSA's prior written approval.

14.      CONFIDENTIALITY REQUIREMENT

Confidential information shall be safeguarded pursuant to 42 CFR Part 431,
Subpart F, ARS ss.36-107, 36-2903, 41-1959 and 46-135, and AHCCCS and/or ALTCS
Rules.

15.      GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES

Any grievances filed by the Subcontractor shall be adjudicated in accordance
with AHCCCS Rules.

16.      TERMINATION OF SUBCONTRACT

AHCCCSA may, by written notice to the Subcontractor, terminate this subcontract
if it is found, after notice and hearing by the State, that gratuities in the
form of entertainment, gifts, or otherwise were offered or given by the
Subcontractor, or any agent or representative of the Subcontractor, to any
officer or employee of the State with a view towards securing a contract or
securing favorable treatment with respect to the awarding, amending or the
making of any determinations with respect to the performance of the
Subcontractor; provided, that the existence of the facts upon which the state
makes such findings shall be in issue and may be reviewed in any competent
court. If the subcontract is terminated under this section, unless the Program
Contractor is a governmental agency, instrumentality or subdivision thereof,
AHCCCSA shall be entitled to a penalty, in addition to any other damages to
which it may be entitled by

                                      A-3

<PAGE>   75

law, and to exemplary damages in the amount of three times the cost incurred by
the Subcontractor in providing any such gratuities to any such officer or
employee.

17.      PRIOR AUTHORIZATION AND UTILIZATION REVIEW

The Program Contractor and Subcontractor shall develop, maintain and use a
system for Prior Authorization and Utilization Review which is consistent with
AHCCCS Rules and the Program Contractor's policies.

18.      NON-DISCRIMINATION REQUIREMENTS

If applicable, the Subcontractor shall comply with:

a.       The Equal Pay Act of 1963, as amended, which prohibits sex
         discrimination in the payment of wages to men and women performing
         substantially equal work under similar working conditions in the same
         establishment.

b.       Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, which prohibits
         the denial of benefits of, or participation in, contract services on
         the basis of race, color, or national origin.

c.       Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended which prohibits
         private employees, state and local governments, and educational
         institutions from discriminating against their employees and job
         applicants on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, or national
         origin.

d.       Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended,
         which prohibits private employers and state and local governments from
         discriminating against job applicants and employees on the basis of
         disability.

e.       The Civil Rights Act of 1991, which reverses in whole or in part,
         several recent Supreme Court decisions interpreting Title VII.

f.       The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ARS Title 41-1461, et seq.);
         which prohibits discrimination based on age.

g.       State Executive Order 75-5 and Federal Order 11246 which mandates that
         all persons, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national
         origin or political affiliation, shall have equal access to employment
         opportunities.

h.       Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, which
         prohibits discrimination in the employment or advancement of the
         employment of qualified persons because of physical or mental handicap.

i.       Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, which
         prohibits discrimination on the basis of handicap in delivering
         contract services.

                                      A-4
<PAGE>   76

19.      COMPLIANCE WITH AHCCCS RULES RELATING TO AUDIT AND INSPECTION

The Subcontractor shall comply with all applicable AHCCCS Rules and Audit Guide
relating to the audit of the Subcontractor's records and the inspection of the
Subcontractor's facilities. If the Subcontractor is an inpatient facility, the
Subcontractor shall file uniform reports and Title XVIII and Title XIX cost
reports with AHCCCSA.

20.      CERTIFICATION OF TRUTHFULNESS OF REPRESENTATION

By signing this subcontract, the Subcontractor certifies that all
representations set forth herein are true to the best of its knowledge.

21.      CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE - ANTI-KICKBACK AND LABORATORY TESTING

By signing this subcontract, the Subcontractor certifies that it has not engaged
in any violation of the Medicare Anti-Kickback statute (42 USC ss.1320a-7b) or
the "Stark I" and "Stark II" laws governing related-entity referrals (PL 101-239
and PL 101-432) and compensation therefrom. If the Subcontractor provides
laboratory testing, it certifies that it has complied with 42 CFR ss.411.361 and
has sent to AHCCCSA simultaneous copies of the information required by that rule
to be sent to the Health Care Financing Administration.

22.      CONFLICT IN INTERPRETATION OF PROVISIONS

In the event of any conflict in interpretation between provisions of this
subcontract and the AHCCCS Minimum Subcontract Provisions, the latter shall take
precedence.

23.      ENCOUNTER DATA REQUIREMENT

If the Subcontractor does not bill the Program Contractor (e.g., Subcontractor
is capitated), the Subcontractor shall submit encounter data to the Program
Contractor in a form acceptable to AHCCCSA.

24.      CLINICAL LABORATORY IMPROVEMENT AMENDMENTS OF 1988

The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) of 1988 requires
laboratories and other facilities that test human specimens to obtain either a
CLIA Waiver or CLIA Certificate in order to obtain reimbursement from the
Medicare and Medicaid (AHCCCS) programs. In addition, they must meet all the
requirements of 42 CFR 493, Subpart A.

To comply with these requirements, AHCCCSA requires all clinical laboratories to
provide verification of CLIA Licensure or Certificate of Waiver during the
provider registration process. Failure to do so shall result in either a
termination of an active provider ID number or denial of initial registration.
These requirements apply to all clinical laboratories.

Pass-through billing or other similar activities with the intent of avoiding the
above requirements are prohibited. Program Contractor may not reimburse
providers who do not comply with the above requirements.

                                      A-5
<PAGE>   77

25.      INSURANCE

[This provision applies only if the Subcontractor provides services directly to
AHCCCS members]

The Subcontractor shall maintain for the duration of this subcontract a policy
or policies of professional liability insurance, comprehensive general liability
insurance and automobile liability insurance. The Subcontractor agrees that any
insurance protection required by this subcontract, or otherwise obtained by the
Subcontractor, shall not limit the responsibility of Subcontractor to indemnify,
keep and save harmless and defend the State and AHCCCSA, their agents, officers
and employees as provided herein. Furthermore, the Subcontractor shall be fully
responsible for all tax obligations, Worker's Compensation Insurance, and all
other applicable insurance coverage, for itself and its employees, and AHCCCSA
shall have no responsibility or liability for any such taxes or insurance
coverage.

26.      FRAUD AND ABUSE

If the Subcontractor discovers, or is made aware, that an incident of potential
fraud or abuse has occurred, the Subcontractor shall report the incident to the
Program Contractor, who shall proceed in accordance with the AHCCCS Health Plans
and Program Contractors Policy for Prevention, Detection and Reporting of Fraud
and Abuse. Incidents involving potential member eligibility fraud should be
reported to AHCCCSA, Office of Managed Care, Member Fraud Unit. All other
incidents of potential fraud should be reported to AHCCCSA, Office of the
Director, Office of Program Integrity. (See AHCCCS Rule R9-22-511.)

                                      A-6
<PAGE>   78
                     ATTACHMENT B: MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS

                          (By Geographic Service Area)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Note:    Offerors are permitted to bid only by Geographic Service Area. Please
see Section H, Paragraph 9, Award of Contracts, for further information on
bidding by Geographic Service Area.

Offerors shall have in place an adequate network of providers capable of meeting
contract requirements. The information that follows describes the minimum
network requirements by Geographic Service Area (GSA). The minimum bid is a
single entire GSA, as depicted on the following page.

In some GSA's there are required service sites located outside of the
geographical boundary of a GSA. The reason for this relates to practical access
to care. In certain instances, a member must travel a much greater distance to
receive services within their assigned GSA if the member were not allowed to
receive services in an adjoining GSA or state.

Split zip codes occur in some counties. Split zip codes are those which straddle
two different counties. Enrollment for members residing in these zip codes is
based upon the county and GSA to which the entire zip code has been assigned by
AHCCCS. The Offeror shall be responsible for providing services to members
residing in the entire zip code that is assigned to the GSA for which the
Offeror has agreed to provide services. The split zip codes GSA assignments are
as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
    ZIP CODE          SPLIT BETWEEN           COUNTY            ASSIGNED
                      THESE COUNTIES         ASSIGNED TO           GSA
    --------------------------------------------------------------------
    <S>            <C>                       <C>                <C>
      85220        Pinal and Maricopa         Maricopa              12

      85242        Pinal and Maricopa         Maricopa              12

      85292        Gila and Pinal             Gila                   8

      85342        Yavapai and Maricopa       Maricopa              12

      85358        Yavapai and Maricopa       Maricopa              12

      85390        Yavapai and Maricopa       Maricopa              12

      85643        Graham and Cochise         Cochise               18

      85645        Pima and Santa Cruz        Santa Cruz            18

      85943        Apache and Navajo          Navajo                16

      86336        Coconino and Yavapai       Yavapai                6

      86351        Coconino and Yavapai       Coconino               6

      86434        Mohave and Yavapai         Yavapai                6
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
<PAGE>   79

If outpatient specialty services (OB, family planning, and pediatrics) are not
included in the primary care provider contract, at least one subcontract is
required for each of these specialties in the service sites specified. General
surgeons must be available within 50 miles of service sites.

In Tucson (GSA 10) and Metropolitan Phoenix (GSA 12), the Offeror must
demonstrate its ability to provide PCP, dental and pharmacy services so that
members don't need to travel more than 5 miles from their residence.
Metropolitan Phoenix is defined on the Minimum Network Standard page specific to
GSA #6.

Offerors bidding in GSA's other than GSA 10 and GSA 12 are encouraged to
contract with the hospitals in their provider network. However, AHCCCSA will not
award additional points in the evaluation process for hospital contracts in
rural areas. At a minimum, the Offeror shall have a physician with admitting and
treatment privileges with each hospital in its network. Offerors bidding in GSA
10 and/or GSA 12 must have at least one hospital contract in each service
district as depicted on the respective maps for GSA 10 and GSA 12. This
requirement is part of the Hospital Reimbursement Pilot Program, described more
fully in Section D, Paragraph 35, Hospital Reimbursement. For offerors'
convenience, a list of Phoenix and Tucson area hospitals are included on the
reverse of the Phoenix and Tucson maps which follow.

Provider categories required at various service delivery sites included in the
Service Area Minimum Network Standards are indicated as follows:

         H        Hospitals
         P        Primary Care Providers (physicians, certified nurse
                  practitioners and physician assistants)
         D        Dentists
         PH       Pharmacies

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
<PAGE>   80

HOSPITALS IN PHOENIX METROPOLITAN AREA (BY SERVICE DISTRICT, BY ZIP CODE)

CENTRAL DISTRICT

85006    Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center
         Phoenix Children's Hospital
         St. Luke's Medical Center
85007    Phoenix Memorial Hospital
85008    Maricopa Medical Center
85013    St. Joseph's Hospital & Medical Center
85015    Community Hospital Medical Center
         Phoenix Baptist Hospital & Medical Center
85016    Phoenix Regional Medical Center
85020    John C. Lincoln Hospital & Health Center
85027    Phoenix General Hospital & Medical Center

NORTHWEST DISTRICT

85031    Maryvale Samaritan Medical Center
85031    Paradise Valley Hospital
85306    Thunderbird Samaritan Medical Center
85308    Arrowhead Community Hospital & Medical Center
85351    Walter O. Boswell Memorial Hospital
85375    Del E. Webb Memorial Hospital
85259    Mayo Clinic Hospital

SOUTHWEST DISTRICT

85201    Mesa General Hospital Medical Center
         Mesa Lutheran Hospital
85202    Desert Samaritan Medical Center
85206    Valley Lutheran Hospital
85224    Chandler Regional Hospital
85251    Scottsdale Memorial Hospital - Osborn
85261    Scottsdale Memorial Hospital - North
85281    Tempe St. Luke's Hospital

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
<PAGE>   81

HOSPITALS IN TUCSON METROPOLITAN AREA (BY SERVICE DISTRICT, BY ZIP CODE)

NORTHWEST DISTRICT

85719    Tucson General Hospital
         University Medical Center
85741    Northwest Hospital
85745    Carondelet St. Mary's Hospital

SOUTHEAST DISTRICT

85711    Carondelet St.  Joseph's Hospital
85712    El Dorado Hospital
         Tucson Medical Center
85713    Kino Community Hospital

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
<PAGE>   82

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                       GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 2

COUNTY:   YUMA

HOSPITALS
         Yuma

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS
         Yuma
         Somerton
         Wellton

DENTISTS
         Yuma

PHARMACIES
         Yuma
         Wellton

                          [Map of Yuma County, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST       PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   83

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                       GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 4

COUNTIES:  LA PAZ AND MOHAVE

HOSPITALS
         Bullhead City
         Kingman
         Lake Havasu City
         Parker
         St. George, Utah

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS
         Blythe
         Bullhead City
         Kanab, Utah
         Kingman
         Lake Havasu City
         Parker
         St. George, Utah/Mesquite

DENTISTS
         Blythe
         Bullhead City
         Kanab, Utah
         Kingman
         Lake Havasu City
         Parker
         St. George, Utah/Mesquite

PHARMACIES
         Blythe
         Bullhead City
         Kanab, Utah
         Kingman
         Lake Havasu City
         Parker
         St. George, Utah/Mesquite

                  [Map of La Paz and Mohave Counties, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   84

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                       GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 6

COUNTIES:  COCONINO AND YAVAPAI

HOSPITALS
         Cottonwood
         Flagstaff
         Kanab, Utah
         Kingman
         Page
         Payson
         Phoenix/Wickenburg
         Prescott
         Winslow

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS
         Camp Verde                 Sedona
         Cottonwood                 Williams
         Flagstaff                  Winslow
         Kanab, Utah
         Kingman
         Page
         Payson
         Phoenix/Wickenburg
         Prescott
         Prescott Valley

DENTISTS
         Camp Verde                 Sedona
         Cottonwood                 Williams
         Flagstaff                  Winslow
         Kanab, Utah
         Kingman
         Page
         Payson
         Phoenix/Wickenburg
         Prescott
         Prescott Valley

PHARMACIES
         Camp Verde                 Sedona
         Cottonwood                 Williams
         Flagstaff                  Winslow
         Kanab, Utah
         Kingman
         Page
         Payson
         Phoenix/Wickenburg
         Prescott
         Prescott Valley

                 [May of Coconino and Yavapai Counties, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   85

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                       GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 8

COUNTIES:  GILA AND PINAL

HOSPITALS
         Casa Grande
         Claypool
         Mesa
         Payson

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS
         Apache Junction
         Casa Grande
         Coolidge/Florence
         Eloy
         Globe/Miami/Claypool
         Hayden/Winkelman
         Kearney
         Mammoth/San Manuel/Oracle
         Mesa
         Payson

DENTISTS
         Apache Junction
         Casa Grande
         Coolidge/Florence
         Eloy
         Globe/Miami/Claypool
         Kearney
         Mammoth/San Manuel/Oracle
         Mesa
         Payson

PHARMACIES
         Apache Junction
         Casa Grande
         Coolidge/Florence
         Globe/Miami/Claypool
         Kearney
         Mammoth/San Manuel/Oracle
         Mesa
         Payson

                    [Map of Gila and Pinal Counties, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   86

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                      GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 10

COUNTY:  PIMA

HOSPITALS
         Tucson
            Northwest Service Sector
              Contract Requirement
         Southwest Service Sector
         Contract Requirement
         Nogales
            Physician[s] with admit and treatment
                   privileges required

PRIMARY CARE
PROVIDERS
         Ajo
         Catalina
         Green/Valley/Continental
         Marana
         Nogales
         Oro Valley
         Tucson++

DENTISTS
         Ajo
         Catalina
         Green Valley/Continental
         Nogales
         Ora Valley
         Tucson++

PHARMACIES
         Ajo
         Catalina
         Green Valley/Continental
         Nogales
         Ora Valley
         Tucson++

                          [Map of Pima County, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   87

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                      GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 12

COUNTY:  MARICOPA

HOSPITALS
         Metropolitan Phoenix++
           Northwest Service Sector
              Contract Requied
         Central Service Sector
              Contract Required
         Southeast Service Sector
              Contract Required
         Wickenburg
              Physician[s] with admit and treatment
              privileges required

PRIMARY CARE
PROVIDERS
         Avondale/Goodyear/Litchfield Park/Tolleson
         Buckeye
         Gila Bend
         Metropolitan Phoenix++
         Queen Creek
         Wickenburg

DENTISTS
         Avondale/Buckeye/Goodyear/Litchfield Park/Tolleson
         Metropolitan Phoenix++
         Wickenburg

PHARMACIES
         Avondale/Goodyear/Litchfield Park/Tolleson
         Buckeye
         Metropolitan Phoenix++
         Wickenburg
                        [Map of Maricopa County, Arizona]

         ++   For purposes of this RFP, Metropolitan Phoenix encompasses the
              following: Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek/Carefree, Fountain
              Hills, Scottsdale, Glendale, Sun City/Sun City West, Tempe, Mesa,
              Gilbert, Chandler, Apache Junction, Peoria, El Mirage, Guadalupe,
              Surprise and Youngtown. Within this area, distance standards must
              be met as specified in Attachment B.

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   88

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                      GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 14

COUNTIES:  GRAHAM AND GREENLEE

HOSPITALS
         Safford

PRIMARY CARE
PROVIDERS
         Morenci/Clifton
         Safford

DENTISTS
         Morenci/Clifton
         Safford

PHARMACIES
         Morenci/Clifton
         Safford/Thatcher

                 [Map of Graham and Greenlee Counties, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   89

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                      GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 16

COUNTIES:  APACHE AND NAVAJO

HOSPITALS
         Gallup, NM
         Showlow
         Spingerville
         Winslow

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS
         Gallup, NM
         Holbrook
         Showlow/Pinetop/Lakeside
         Snowflake/Taylor
         Springerville/Eager
         St. Johns
         Winslow

DENTISTS
         Gallup, NM
         Holbrook
         Showlow/Pinetop/Lakeside
         Snowflake/Taylor
         Springerville/Eager
         St. Johns
         Winslow

PHARMACIES
         Gallup, NM
         Holbrook
         Showlow/Pinetop/Lakeside
         Snowflake/Taylor
         Springerville/Eager
         St. Johns
         Winslow

                  [Map of Apache and Navajo Counties, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   90

                                                                    ATTACHMENT B
                                                       MINIMUM NETWORK STANDARDS
                                                      GEOGRAPHIC SERVICE AREA 18

COUNTIES: COCHISE AND SANTA CRUZ

HOSPITALS
         Benson
         Bisbee
         Douglas
         Nogales
         Sierra Vista
         Tucson
         Willcox

PRIMARY CARE PROVIDERS
         Benson
         Bisbee
         Douglas
         Nogales
         Sierra Vista
         Tucson
         Willcox

DENTISTS
         Benson/Willcox
         Bisbee
         Douglas
         Nogales
         Sierra Vista
         Tucson

PHARMACIES
         Benson
         Bisbee
         Douglas
         Nogales
         Sierra Vista
         Tucson
         Willcox

                [Map of Cochise and Santa Cruz Counties, Arizona]

H = HOSPITAL     P = PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN      D = DENTIST      PH = PHARMACY

<PAGE>   91

ATTACHMENT F:  PERIODIC REPORT REQUIREMENTS

The following table is a summary of the periodic reporting requirements for
AHCCCS acute care contractors and is subject to change at any time during the
term of the contract. The table is presented for convenience only and should not
be construed to limit the Contractor's responsibilities in any manner.
"Reporting Guide" refers to the Reporting Guide for Acute Health Care
Contractors with the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
----------------------------------   -------------------------------   ---------------------------   ------------------
                                                                                                           AHCCCS
             REPORT                             WHEN DUE                    SOURCE/REFERENCE               CONTACT
----------------------------------   -------------------------------   ---------------------------   ------------------
<S>                                  <C>                               <C>                           <C>
Monthly Financial Report             45 days after the end of the      Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     month, as applicable

Quarterly Financial Report           60 days after the end of each     Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     quarter

Draft Annual Audit Report            90 days after the end of each     Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     fiscal year

Draft Management Letter              90 days after the end of each     Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     fiscal year

Final Annual Audit Report            120 days after the end of         Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     each fiscal year

Final Management Letter              120 days after the end of         Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     each fiscal year

Accountant's Report on Compliance    120 days after the end of         Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     each fiscal year

Reconciliation - Annual Audit        120 days after the end of         Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
and Plan Year-to-Date Financial
Report Information

Financial Disclosure Report          120 days after the end of         Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
                                     each fiscal year

Annual Analysis of Profitability     120 days after the end of         Reporting Guide               Financial Manager
by Major Rate Code (by County)       each fiscal year

Provider Affiliation Tape            10 business days after the        PMMIS Provider-to-            Health Plan
                                     beginning of each quarter         Health Plan magnetic tape     Operations Manager
                                                                       submission and
                                                                       processing

18-20 NON-SMI Status Report          15 days after the end of          Instructions on form          Behavioral Health
                                     each month                                                      Manager

Encounter Data - Magnetic            Monthly, according to             Encounter Manual              Encounter
Tape Submission                      established schedule                                            Administrator

Corrected Pended Encounter           Monthly, according to             Encounter Manual              Encounter
Tape                                 established schedule                                            Administrator

New Day Tape                         Monthly, according to             Encounter Manual              Encounter
                                     established schedule                                            Administrator

Medical Records for Data             6 weeks after the request         RFP, Section C,               Data Validation
Validation                           received from AHCCSA              Paragraph 1                   Manager

Quarterly Grievance Report           45 days after the end of          RFP, Section D,               Administrative
                                     each quarter                      Paragraph 26                  Assistant

Comprehensive EPSDT Plan             Annually on December 1            RFP, Section D,               Acute Care Program
including Dental                                                       Paragraph 16                  Manager
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99

<PAGE>   92
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
----------------------------------   -------------------------------   ---------------------------   ------------------
                                                                                                           AHCCCS
             REPORT                             WHEN DUE                    SOURCE/REFERENCE               CONTACT
----------------------------------   -------------------------------   ---------------------------   ------------------
<S>                                  <C>                               <C>                           <C>
Update                                                                                               Manager

Quarterly Inpatient Hospital         15 day after the end of each      State Medicaid Manual         Acute Care Program
Showing                              quarter                           and the AMPM, Chapter 900     Manager

Quality Management/Utilization       Annually on November 15th         AMPM, Chapter 900             Acute Care Program
Management Plan Evaluation and                                                                       Manager
Revision

AIDS/HIV Reports                     90 days after the end of each     AMPM, Chapter 900             Acute Care Program
                                     contract year                                                   Manager

Acute Pharmacy Report                90 days after the end of each     AMPM, Chapter 900             Acute Care Program
                                     quarter, annually within 90                                     Manager
                                     days following the end of
                                     each contract year

Monthly Pregnancy                    End of the month following        AMPM, Chapter 400             Acute Care Program
Termination Report                   the pregnancy termination                                       Manager

Maternity Care Plan                  Annually on December 1st          AMPM, Chapter 400             Acute Care Program
                                                                                                     Manager

Clinical Study Proposal              Annually on November 15th         AMPM, Chapter 900             Acute Care Program
                                                                                                     Manager

Clinical Study Results               Annually within 90 days           AMPM, Chapter 900             Acute Care  Program
                                     following the end of each                                       Manager
                                     contract year

Provider Fraud/Abuse Report          Immediately following             AHCCCS Internal Audit/        Office of Program
                                     discovery                         Program Investigation         Integrity Manager
                                                                       Policy for Prevention,
                                                                       Detection and Reporting
                                                                       of Fraud and Abuse

Eligible Person Fraud/Abuse          Immediately following             AHCCCS Internal Audit/        Office of Program
Report                               discovery                         Program Investigation         Integrity Manager
                                                                       Policy for Prevention,
                                                                       Detection and Reporting
                                                                       of Fraud and Abuse

Non-Transplant Catastrophic -        Annually, within 30 days of       RFP, Section D,               OMD/FFS Unit
Reinsurance covered diseases         the beginning of the contract     Paragraph 39                  Reinsurance
                                     year, enrollment to the plan,                                   Manager
                                     and when newly diagnosed.
</TABLE>

                                                              Acute Care Renewal
                                                                 Revised 10/1/99
<PAGE>   93

ATTACHMENT H:  GRIEVANCE PROCESS AND STANDARDS

The Contractor shall have in place a written grievance policy for members and
providers which defines their rights regarding any adverse action by the
Contractor. The Contractor shall also ensure compliance with the Members' Rights
and Responsibilities Policy. The written grievance policy shall be in accordance
with applicable federal and State laws and AHCCCS Rules and policy including,
but not limited to, AHCCCS Rules R9-22-512; R9-22-518(A); R9-22-802; and
R9-22-804. The grievance policy shall include the following provisions:

a.       The grievance procedure will be provided all subcontractors at time of
         contract, and to non-contracting providers within 10 days of the date
         of receipt of the claim. For non-contracting providers, the grievance
         procedure may be mailed with the remittance advice provided the
         remittance is sent within 45 days of receipt of claim.

b.       Specific individual(s) are appointed with authority to require
         corrective action to administer the grievance policy.

c.       A log is maintained for all grievances containing sufficient
         information to identify the grievant, date of receipt, nature of the
         grievance and the date grievance is resolved. Separate logs must be
         maintained for provider and member grievances. The logs must contain
         sufficient information to identify the grievant, date of receipt,
         nature of the grievance and the date grievance is resolved.

d.       Within five working days of receipt, the grievant is informed by letter
         that the grievance has been received. The letter must also be in a
         second language when 200 members or 5% of the Contractor's population,
         whichever is greater speak the second language.

e.       Each grievance is thoroughly investigated using the applicable
         statutory, regulatory and contractual provisions as well as the
         Contractor's policies and procedures, ensuring that facts are gathered
         from all parties.

f.       All documentation received and mailed by Contractor during the
         grievance process is dated upon date of receipt.

g.       All grievances are filed in a secure, designated area and are
         retained for five years following the final decision, judicial appeal
         or close of a grievance.

h.       A copy of the Contractor's final decision will be either hand-delivered
         or delivered by certified mail to all parties whose interest has been
         adversely affected by the decision. The final decision shall be mailed
         to all other individuals by regular mail. The date of the final
         decision shall be the date of personal delivery or, if mailed, the
         postmark date of the mailing. The final decision must include, and
         describe in detail, the following:

                  1.       the nature of the grievance

                  2.       the issues involved

                  3.       the reasons supporting the Contractor's decision
                           including references to applicable statute, rule and
                           procedure

                  4.       the grievant's right to appeal the Contractor's
                           decision to AHCCCSA by filing the appeal to the
                           Contractor no later than 15 days after the date of
                           the Contractor's final decision. This must also be
                           written in a second language, if applicable.

i.       If the Contractor's final decision is appealed, all supporting
         documentation must be received by the AHCCCSA, Office of Legal
         Assistance no later than five working days from the date the Contractor
         receives the appeal or from the date of the oral or written request
         from AHCCCSA, Office of Legal Assistance. The appeal file must contain
         a cover letter that includes:

                  1.       grievant's name

                  2.       grievant's AHCCCS ID number

<PAGE>   94

                  3.       grievant's address

                  4.       phone number (if applicable)

                  5.       date of receipt of grievance and appeal

                  6.       summary of the Contractor's actions undertaken to
                           resolve the grievance and basis thereof

j.       The following material shall be included in the appeal file:

                  1.       written request of the grievant asking for the appeal

                  2.       copies of the entire file which include the
                           investigations and/or medical records; and the
                           Contractor's grievance decision

                  3.       other information used by the Contractor to resolve
                           the grievance and that would be necessary to AHCCCSA
                           to resolve the grievance.

k.       The Contractor may attempt to use alternative resolution procedures to
         resolve disputes presented to the Contractor verbally or in writing. If
         the Contractor elects to use an alternative resolution process, it must
         be administered and completed within 10 days from receipt of the
         dispute. If the matter is not resolved to the grievant's satisfaction
         within the 10 day period, the dispute must then be adjudicated using
         the grievance standards contained above. However, the Contractor must
         render the written grievance decision within a maximum of 30 days from
         the date of the initial filing of the grievance or dispute unless a
         longer period was agreed to by the parties involved.

l.       For all disputes where an alternative resolution is proposed, the
         Contractor must maintain a separate log, complying with paragraphs c.
         and g. above.

Hospital Reimbursement Pilot Program -- Maricopa and Pima counties only (See
Section D, Paragraph 35): Arbitration may be used in lieu of the grievance and
appeal procedure. If arbitration is used, the hospital contract must identify:

a.       The parties agreement on arbitrating claims arising from the contract;

b.       Whether arbitration is non-binding or binding;

c.       Timeliness of arbitration;

d.       What contract provisions may be appealed;

e.       What rules will govern arbitrations;

f.       The number of arbitrators that will be used;

g.       How arbitrators will be selected; and

h.       How arbitrators will be compensated.<PAGE>   1

                             PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC.

                                      and

                           FIRST UNION NATIONAL BANK,
                         a national banking institution

                                  Rights Agent

                                RIGHTS AGREEMENT

                         Dated as of December 22, 2000

<PAGE>   2

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

                                                                           Page

Section 1.   Certain Definitions.............................................1
Section 2.   Appointment of Rights Agent.....................................5
Section 3.   Issue of Rights Certificates....................................5
Section 4.   Form of Rights Certificates.....................................7
Section 5.   Countersignature and Registration...............................7
Section 6.   Transfer, Split Up, Combination, and Exchange of Rights
                  Certificates: Mutilated, Destroyed, Lost, or Stolen
                  Rights Certificates........................................8
Section 7.   Exercise of Rights; Purchase Price; Expiration Date of Rights...9
Section 8.   Cancellation and Destruction of Rights Certificates............11
Section 10.  Preferred Stock Record Date....................................12
Section 11.  Adjustment of Purchase Price, Number and Kind of Shares,
                  and Number of Rights......................................13
Section 12.  Certificate of Adjusted Purchase Price or Number of Shares.....20
Section 13.  Consolidation, Merger, or Sale or Transfer of Assets or
                  Earning Power.............................................21
Section 14.  Fractional Rights and Fractional Shares........................23
Section 15.  Rights of Action...............................................25
Section 16.  Agreement of Rights Holders....................................25
Section 17.  Rights Certificate Holder Not Deemed a Shareholder.............26
Section 18.  Concerning the Rights Agent....................................26
Section 19.  Merger or Consolidation or Change of Name of Rights Agent......27
Section 20.  Duties of Rights Agent.........................................27
Section 21.  Change of Rights Agent.........................................29
Section 22.  Issuance of New Rights Certificates............................30
Section 23.  Redemption and Termination.....................................31
Section 24.  Exchange.......................................................31
Section 25.  Notice of Certain Events.......................................33
Section 26.  Notices........................................................33
Section 27.  Supplements and Amendments.....................................34
Section 28.  Successors.....................................................35
Section 29.  Determinations and Actions by the Board of Directors...........35
Section 30.  Benefits of this Agreement.....................................35
Section 31.  Severability...................................................35
Section 32.  Governing Law..................................................36
Section 33.  Counterparts...................................................36
Section 34.  Descriptive Headings...........................................36

Exhibit A - Form of Certificate of Designation
Exhibit B - Form of Rights Certificate
Exhibit C - Summary of Rights

<PAGE>   3

                                RIGHTS AGREEMENT

         RIGHTS AGREEMENT, dated as of December 22, 2000 (the "Agreement"),
between PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), and
FIRST UNION NATIONAL BANK, a national banking institution, (the "Rights
Agent").

         Effective December 22, 2000 (the "Rights Dividend Declaration Date"),
the Board of Directors of the Company authorized and declared a dividend
distribution of one Right for each share of Common Stock outstanding at the
Close of Business on January 12, 2001 (the "Record Date"), and has authorized
the issuance of one Right (subject to adjustment as provided herein) for each
share of Common Stock issued between the Record Date and the Distribution Date,
each Right initially representing the right to purchase one one-hundredth of
one share of Preferred Stock of the Company upon the terms and subject to the
conditions set forth herein (the "Rights").

         Accordingly, in consideration of the premises and the mutual
agreements set forth in this Agreement, the parties agree as follows:

         SECTION 1.        CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. For purposes of this Agreement,
the following terms have the meanings indicated:

         (a)      "Acquiring Person" means any Person who, together with all
Affiliates and Associates of such Person, is the Beneficial Owner of 15% or
more of the shares of Common Stock then outstanding, other than as the result
of an offer for all outstanding shares of Common Stock determined by the Board
of Directors to be fair to and otherwise in the best interests of the Company
and its stockholders, but shall not include an Exempt Person. Notwithstanding
the foregoing: (i) no Person shall become an "Acquiring Person" as a result of
an acquisition of Common Stock by the Company that , by reducing the aggregate
number of shares of Common Stock outstanding, increases the percentage of the
total number of shares of Common Stock outstanding that are beneficially owned
by such Person to 15% or more; however, if a Person shall become the Beneficial
Owner of 15% or more of the Common Stock then outstanding by reason of
purchases of Common Stock by the Company and such Person shall, after such
share purchases by the Company, become the Beneficial Owner of additional
shares of Common Stock totaling 1% or more of the shares of Common Stock then
outstanding, then such Person shall constitute an "Acquiring Person" and (ii)
if the Board of Directors of the Company determines in good faith that a Person
who would otherwise be an Acquiring Person, as defined pursuant to the
foregoing provisions of this paragraph (a), has become such inadvertently and
in good faith, and, if requested by the Board of Directors, such Person agrees
to divest himself of a sufficient number of shares of Common Stock so that such
Person would no longer be an Acquiring Person, as defined pursuant to the
foregoing provisions of this paragraph (a), then such Person shall not be
deemed to be an "Acquiring Person" for any purposes of this Agreement."

         (b)      "Act" means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and as in
effect on the date of this Agreement.

<PAGE>   4

         (c)      "Adjustment Share Amount" shall have the meaning set forth in
Section 11(a)(ii).

         (d)      "Affiliate" and "Associate" shall have the respective
meanings ascribed to such terms in Rule 12b-2 of the General Rules and
Regulations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
"Exchange Act").

         (e)      "Agreement" shall have the meaning set forth in the preface
at the beginning of this Agreement.

         (f)      A Person shall be deemed the "Beneficial Owner" of, and shall
be deemed to "beneficially own," any securities:

                  (i)      that such Person or any of such Person's Affiliates
or Associates, directly or indirectly, has the right to acquire (whether such
right is exercisable immediately or only after the passage of time) pursuant to
any agreement, arrangement, or understanding (whether or not in writing) or
upon the exercise of conversion rights, exchange rights, rights (other than the
Rights), warrants or options, or otherwise. A Person shall not, however, be
deemed the "Beneficial Owner" of, or to "beneficially own," (A) securities
tendered pursuant to a tender or exchange offer made by such Person or any of
such Person's Affiliates or Associates until such tendered securities are
accepted for purchase or exchange, or (B) securities issuable upon exercise of
Rights at any time before the occurrence of a Triggering Event, or (C)
securities issuable upon exercise of Rights from and after the occurrence of a
Triggering Event if the Rights were acquired by such Person or any of such
Person's Affiliates or Associates before the Distribution Date or pursuant to
Section 3(a) or Section 22 (the "Original Rights") or pursuant to Section 11(i)
in connection with an adjustment made with respect to any Original Rights;

                  (ii)     that such Person or any of such Person's Affiliates
or Associates, directly or indirectly, has the right to vote or dispose of or
has "beneficial ownership" of (as determined pursuant to Rule 13d-3 of the
General Rules and Regulations under the Exchange Act), including pursuant to
any agreement, arrangement or understanding, whether or not in writing; that a
Person shall not be deemed, however, the "Beneficial Owner" of, or to
"beneficially own," any security under this subparagraph (ii) as a result of an
agreement, arrangement, or understanding to vote such security if such
agreement, arrangement, or understanding: (A) arises solely from a revocable
proxy given in response to a public proxy or consent solicitation made pursuant
to, and in accordance with, the applicable provisions of the General Rules and
Regulations under the Exchange Act and (B) is not also then reportable by such
Person on pursuant to Regulation 13D-G under the Exchange Act (or any
comparable or successor regulation); or

                  (iii)    that are beneficially owned, directly or indirectly,
by any other Person (or any Affiliate or Associate thereof) with which such
Person (or any of such Person's Affiliates or Associates) has any agreement,
arrangement, or understanding (whether or not in writing), for the purpose of
acquiring, holding, voting (except pursuant

                                       2
<PAGE>   5

to a revocable proxy as described in the proviso to subparagraph (ii) of this
paragraph (f)), or disposing of any voting securities of the Company. Nothing
in this paragraph (f), however, shall cause a person engaged in business as an
underwriter of securities to be the "Beneficial Owner" of, or to "beneficially
own," any securities acquired through such person's participation in good faith
in a firm commitment underwriting until the expiration of forty days after the
date of such acquisition.

                  (g)      "Business Day" means any day other than a Saturday,
Sunday, or a day on which banking institutions in the State of Florida are
authorized or obligated by law or executive order to close.

                  (h)      "Close of Business" on any given date means 5:00
p.m., eastern time, on such date. If such date is not a Business Day, however,
it means 5:00 p.m., eastern time, on the next succeeding Business Day.

                  (i)      "Common Stock" means the common stock, par value
$.001 per share, of the Company, except that "common stock" when used with
reference to any Person other than, the Company means the capital stock of such
Person with the greatest voting power, or the equity securities or other equity
interest having power to control or direct the management, of such Person.

                  (j)      "Company" shall have the meaning set forth in the
preface above.

                  (k)      "Current market price" shall have the meaning set
forth in Section 11(d).

                  (l)      "Current Value" shall have the meaning set forth in
Section 11(a)(iii).

                  (m)      "Distribution Date" shall have the meaning set forth
in Section 3(a).

                  (n)      "Common Stock Equivalent" shall have the meaning set
forth in Section 11(a)(iii).

                  (o)      "Equivalent Preferred Stock" shall have the meaning
set forth in Section 11(b).

                  (p)      "Exchange Act" shall have the meaning set forth in
Section 1(d) above.

                  (q)      "Exchange Ratio" shall have the meaning set forth in
Section 24(a).

                  (r)      "Exempt Person" means the Company, any subsidiary of
the Company, any employee benefit plan of the Company or of any subsidiary of
the Company or any Person or entity organized, appointed, or established by the
Company for or pursuant to the terms of any such plan.

                  (s)      "Expiration Date" shall have the meaning set forth
in Section 7(a).

                                       3
<PAGE>   6

                  (t)      "Final Expiration Date" shall have the meaning set
forth in Section 7(a).

                  (u)      "NASDAQ" shall mean The Nasdaq Stock Market.

                  (v)      "Original Rights" shall have the meaning set forth
in Section 1(f)(i).

                  (w)      "Person" means any individual, firm, corporation,
partnership, or other entity.

                  (x)      "Preferred Stock" means the Series C Preferred
Stock, $.001 par value of the Company having the rights and preferences set
forth in the Certificate of Designation attached to this Agreement as Exhibit
A.

                  (y)      "Principal Party" shall have the meaning set forth
in Section 13(b).

                  (z)      "Purchase Price" shall have the meaning set forth in
Section 4(a).

                  (aa)     "Record Date" shall have the meaning set forth in
the preface at the beginning of this Agreement.

                  (bb)     "Redemption Price" shall have the meaning set forth
in Section 23(a).

                  (cc)     "Rights" shall have the meaning set forth in the
preface at the beginning of this Agreement.

                  (dd)     "Rights Agent" shall have the meaning set forth in
the preface at the beginning of this Agreement.

                  (ee)     "Rights Certificates" shall have the meaning set
forth in Section 3(a).

                  (ff)     "Rights Dividend Declaration Date" shall have the
meaning set forth in the preface at the beginning of this Agreement.

                  (gg)     "Section 11(a)(ii) Event" shall have the meaning set
forth in Section 11(a)(ii).

                  (hh)     "Section 11(a)(ii) Trigger Date" shall have the
meaning set forth in Section 11(a)(iii).

                  (ii)     "Section 13 Event" means any event described in
clauses (x), (y), or (z) of Section 13(a).

                  (jj)     "Spread" shall have the meaning set forth in Section
11(a)(iii).

                  (kk)     "Stock Acquisition Date" means the first date of
public announcement (that, for purposes of this definition, shall include, a
report filed pursuant to the Exchange

                                       4
<PAGE>   7

Act) by the Company or an Acquiring Person that an Acquiring Person has become
an Acquiring Person.

                  (ll)     "Subsidiary" means, with reference to any Person,
any corporation or other entity of which an amount of voting securities
sufficient to elect at least a majority of the directors of such corporation is
beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by such Person, or that is
otherwise controlled by such Person.

                  (mm)     "Substitution Period" shall have the meaning set
forth in Section 11(a)(iii).

                  (nn)     "Summary of Rights" shall have the meaning set forth
in Section 3(b).

                  (oo)     "Trading Day" shall have the meaning set forth in
Section 11(d)(i).

                  (pp)     "Triggering Event" means any Section 11(a)(ii) Event
or any Section 13 Event.

         SECTION 2.        APPOINTMENT OF RIGHTS AGENT. The Company hereby
appoints First Union National Bank, a national banking institution, to act as
agent for the Company and the holders of the Rights (who, in accordance with
Section 3 shall before the Distribution Date also be the holders of Common
Stock) in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and the
Rights Agent hereby accepts such appointment. The Company may from time to time
appoint such co-rights agents as it may deem necessary or desirable. The Rights
Agent shall have no duty to supervise, and shall in no event be liable for, the
acts or omissions of any such co-rights agent. In the event the Company
appoints one or more co-rights agents, the respective duties of the Rights
Agents and any co-rights agents will be as the Company may determine.

         SECTION 3.        ISSUE OF RIGHTS CERTIFICATES.

         (a)      Until the earliest of (i) the Close of Business on the tenth
day after the Stock Acquisition Date (or, if the tenth day after the Stock
Acquisition Date occurs before the Record Date, the Close of Business on the
Record Date), or (ii) the Close of Business on the tenth Business Day (or such
later date as may be determined by the Company's Board of Directors) after the
date that a tender or exchange offer by any Person (other than an Exempt
Person) is first published or sent or given within the meaning of Rule 14d-2(a)
of the General Rules and Regulations under the Exchange Act, if upon
consummation thereof, such Person would be the Beneficial Owner of 15% or more
of the shares of Common Stock then outstanding (the earlier of (i) or (ii) are
referred to in this Agreement as the "Distribution Date"), (x) the Rights will
be evidenced (subject to the provisions of paragraph (b) of this Section 3) by
the outstanding certificates for the Common Stock and not by separate
certificates, and (y) the Rights will be transferable only in connection with
the transfer of the underlying shares of Common Stock (including a transfer to
the Company). As soon as practicable after the Distribution Date the Rights
Agent will send by first-class, insured, postage-prepaid mail, to each record
holder of the Common Stock as of the Close of Business on the Distribution
Date,

                                       5
<PAGE>   8

at the address of such holder shown on the records of the Company, one or more
right certificates, in substantially the form of Exhibit A (the "Rights
Certificates"), evidencing one Right for each share of Common Stock so held,
subject to adjustment as provided in this Agreement. If an adjustment in the
number of Rights per share of Common Stock has been made pursuant to Section
11(p), at the time of distribution of the Rights Certificates, the Company
shall make the necessary and appropriate rounding adjustments (in accordance
with Section 14(a)) so that Rights Certificates representing only whole numbers
of Rights are distributed and cash is paid in lieu of any fractional Rights. As
of the Distribution Date, the Rights will be evidenced solely by such Rights
Certificates.

         (b)      As promptly as practicable following the Record Date, the
Company will send a copy of a summary of Rights, in substantially the form of
Exhibit C (the "Summary of Rights"), by first-class, postage-prepaid mail, to
each record holder of the Common Stock as of the Close of Business on the
Record Date, at the address of such holder shown on the records of the Company.
With respect to certificates for the Common Stock outstanding as of the Record
Date, until the Distribution Date, the Rights will be evidenced by such
certificates for the Common Stock and the registered holders of the Common
Stock shall also be the registered holders of the associated Rights. Until the
earlier of the Distribution Date or the Expiration Date, the transfer of any
certificates representing shares of Common Stock in respect of which Rights
have been issued shall also constitute the transfer of the Rights associated
with such shares of Common Stock.

         (c)      Rights shall be issued in respect of all shares of Common
Stock that are issued after the Record Date but before the earlier of the
Distribution Date or the Expiration Date. Certificates representing such shares
of Common Stock shall also be deemed to be certificates for Rights, and shall
bear the following legend:

         This certificate also evidences and entitles the holder hereof to
certain Rights as set forth in the Rights Agreement between Pinnacle Holdings
Inc. (the "Company") and First Union National Bank, a national banking
institution, (the "Rights Agent") dated as of December 22, 2000 (the "Rights
Agreement"), the terms of which are incorporated herein by reference and a copy
of which is on file at the principal offices of the Company. Under
circumstances described in the Rights Agreement, such Rights will be evidenced
by separate certificates and will no longer be evidenced by this certificate.
The Company will mail to the holder of this certificate a copy of the Rights
Agreement, without charge promptly after receipt of a written request therefor.
Under circumstances described in the Rights Agreement, Rights issued to, or
held by, any Person who is, was, or becomes an Acquiring Person, an Adverse
Person, or any Affiliate or Associate thereof (as those terms are defined in
the Rights Agreement), whether currently held by or on behalf of such Person or
by any subsequent holder, may become null and void.

         With respect to certificates containing the foregoing legend, until
the earlier of (i) the Distribution Date or (ii) the Expiration Date, the
Rights associated with the Common Stock represented by them shall be evidenced
by the certificates alone and registered holders of Common Stock shall also be
the registered holders of the associated

                                       6
<PAGE>   9

Rights, and the transfer of any of such certificates shall also constitute the
transfer of the Rights associated with the Common Stock represented by such
certificates.

         SECTION 4.        FORM OF RIGHTS CERTIFICATES.

         (a)      The Rights Certificates (and the forms of election to
purchase and of assignment to be printed on the reverse thereof) shall each be
substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit B and may have such marks of
identification or designation and such legends, summaries, or endorsements
printed thereon as the Company may deem appropriate and as are not inconsistent
with the provisions of this Agreement, or as may be required to comply with
applicable law or rule or with any rule of any stock exchange on which the
Rights may from time to time be listed, or to conform to usage. Subject to the
provisions of Section 22, the Rights Certificates, whenever distributed, shall
be dated as of the Record Date and on their face shall entitle the holders
thereof to purchase such number of one-hundredths of a share of Preferred Stock
as shall be set forth therein at the price set forth therein (such exercise
price per share, the "Purchase Price"), but the amount and kind of securities
purchasable upon the exercise of each Right and the Purchase Price thereof
shall be subject to adjustment as provided in this Agreement.

         (b)      Any Rights Certificate issued pursuant to Section 3(a) or
Section 22 that represents Rights beneficially owned by: (i) an Acquiring
Person, or any Associate or Affiliate of an Acquiring Person, (ii) a transferee
of an Acquiring Person (or of any such Associate or Affiliate) who becomes a
transferee after the Acquiring Person becomes such, or (iii) a transferee of an
Acquiring Person (or of any such Associate or Affiliate) who becomes a
transferee before or concurrently with the Acquiring Person becoming such and
receives such Rights pursuant to either (A) a transfer (whether or not for
consideration) from the Acquiring Person to holders of equity interests in such
Acquiring Person or to any Person with whom such Acquiring Person has any
continuing agreement, arrangement, or understanding regarding the transferred
Rights or (B) a transfer that the Board has determined is part of a plan,
arrangement, or understanding that has as a primary purpose or effect avoidance
of Section 7(e), and any Rights Certificate issued pursuant to Section 6 or
Section 11 upon transfer, exchange, replacement, or adjustment of any other
Rights Certificate referred to in this sentence, shall contain (to the extent
feasible) the following legend):

         The Rights represented by this Rights Certificate are or were
beneficially owned by a Person who was or became an Acquiring Person or an
Affiliate or Associate of an Acquiring Person (as such terms are defined in the
Rights Agreement). Accordingly, this Rights Certificate and the Rights
represented hereby may become null and void in the circumstances specified in
Section 7(e) of such agreement.

         SECTION 5.        COUNTERSIGNATURE AND REGISTRATION.

         (a)      The Rights Certificates shall be executed on behalf of the
Company by its Chief Executive Officer, President, Chief Operating Officer, or
any Vice President, either manually or by facsimile signature, and shall have
affixed thereto the Company's seal or a facsimile thereof that shall be
attested by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the

                                       7
<PAGE>   10

Company, either manually or by facsimile signature. The Rights Certificates
shall be manually countersigned by the Rights Agent and shall not be valid for
any purpose unless so countersigned. If an officer of the Company signs any of
the Rights Certificates and then ceases to be an officer of the Company before
countersignature by the Rights Agent and issuance and delivery by the Company,
such Rights Certificates nevertheless may be countersigned by the Rights Agent
and issued and delivered by the Company with the same effect as though the
person who signed such Rights Certificates had not ceased to be an officer of
the Company. Any Rights Certificates may be signed on behalf of the Company by
any person who is a proper officer of the Company to sign such Rights
Certificate at the actual date of the execution of such Rights Certificate.

         (b)      Following the Distribution Date, the Rights Agent will keep
at its office designated as the appropriate place for surrender of Rights
Certificates upon exercise or transfer, books for registration and transfer of
the Rights Certificates issued under this Agreement. Those books shall show the
names and addresses of the respective holders of the Rights Certificates, the
number of Rights evidenced on its face by each of the Rights Certificates, and
the date of each of the Rights Certificates.

         SECTION 6.        TRANSFER, SPLIT UP, COMBINATION, AND EXCHANGE OF
RIGHTS CERTIFICATES: MUTILATED, DESTROYED, LOST, OR STOLEN RIGHTS CERTIFICATES.

         (a)      Subject to the provisions of Section 4(b), Section 7(e), and
Section 14, at any time after the Close of Business on the Distribution Date,
and at or before the Close of Business on the Expiration Date, any Rights
Certificate or Certificates may be transferred, split up, combined, or
exchanged for another Rights Certificate or Certificates, entitling the
registered holder to purchase a like number of shares of Preferred Stock (or,
following a Triggering Event, other securities, cash, or other assets, as the
case may be) as the Rights Certificate or Certificates surrendered then entitle
such holder (or former holder in the case of a transfer) to purchase. Any
registered holder desiring to transfer, split up, combine, or exchange any
Rights Certificate or Certificates shall make such request in writing delivered
to the Rights Agent, and shall surrender the Rights Certificate or Certificates
to be transferred, split up, combined, or exchanged at the principal office or
offices of the Rights Agent designated for such purpose. Neither the Rights
Agent nor the Company shall be obligated to take any action whatsoever with
respect to the transfer of any such surrendered Rights Certificate until the
registered holder shall have completed and signed the certificate contained in
the form of assignment on the reverse side of such Rights Certificate and shall
have provided such additional evidence of the identity of the Beneficial Owner
(or former Beneficial Owner) or Affiliates or Associates thereof as the Company
shall reasonably request. Thereupon the Rights Agent shall, subject to Section
4(b), Section 7(e), and Section 14, countersign and deliver to the Person
entitled thereto a Rights Certificate or Certificates, as the case may be, as
so requested. The Company may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any
tax or governmental charge that may be imposed in connection with any transfer,
split up, combination, or exchange of Rights Certificates.

                                       8
<PAGE>   11

         (b)      Upon receipt by the Company and the Rights Agent of evidence
reasonably satisfactory to them of the loss, theft, destruction, or mutilation
of a Rights Certificate, and, in case of loss, theft, or destruction, of
indemnity or security reasonably satisfactory to them, and reimbursement to the
Company and the Rights Agent of all reasonable expenses incidental thereto, and
upon surrender to the Rights Agent and cancellation of the Rights Certificate
if mutilated, the Company will execute and deliver a new Rights Certificate of
like tenor to the Rights Agent for countersignature and delivery to the
registered owner in lieu of the Rights Certificate so lost, stolen, destroyed,
or mutilated.

         SECTION 7.        EXERCISE OF RIGHTS; PURCHASE PRICE; EXPIRATION DATE
OF RIGHTS.

         (a)      Subject to Section 7(e), the registered holder of any Rights
Certificate may exercise the Rights evidenced thereby (except as this Agreement
otherwise provides), in whole or in part at any time after the Distribution
Date upon surrender of the Rights Certificate, with the form of election to
purchase and the certificate on the reverse side of the Rights Certificate duly
executed, to the Rights Agent at the principal office or offices of the Rights
Agent designated for such purpose, together with payment of the aggregate
Purchase Price with respect to the total number of one-hundredths of a share of
Preferred Stock (or other securities, cash, or assets, as the case may be) as
to which such surrendered Rights are then exercisable, at or before the earlier
of (i) the Close of Business on the tenth anniversary of the Record Date (the
"Final Expiration Date"), (ii) the time at which the Rights are redeemed as
provided in Section 23, or (iii) the time at which such Rights are exchanged as
provided in Section 24, (the earlier of (i), (ii), and (iii) is referred to in
this Agreement as the "Expiration Date").

         (b)      The Purchase Price for each one one-hundredth share of
Preferred Stock pursuant to the exercise of a Right shall initially be $60.00,
and shall be subject to adjustment from time to time as provided in Sections 11
and 13(a) and shall be payable in accordance with paragraph (c) below.

         (c)      Upon receipt of a Rights Certificate representing exercisable
Rights with the form of election to purchase and the certificate duly executed,
accompanied by payment with respect to each Right so exercised of the Purchase
Price per one one-hundredth share of Preferred Stock (or for such Common Stock
or other securities, cash, or assets, as the case may be) to be purchased as
set forth below and an amount equal to any applicable transfer tax, the Rights
Agent shall, subject to Section 20(k), thereupon promptly (i) (A) requisition
from any transfer agent of the shares of Preferred Stock (or make available, if
the Rights Agent is the transfer agent for such shares) certificates for the
total number of shares of Preferred Stock to be purchased (and the Company
hereby irrevocably authorizes its transfer agent to comply with all such
requests) or (B) if the Company shall have elected to deposit the total number
of shares of Preferred Stock issuable upon exercise of the Rights under this
Agreement with a depositary agent, requisition from the depositary agent
depositary receipts representing such number of shares of Preferred Stock as
are to be purchased (in which case certificates for the shares of Preferred
Stock represented by such receipts shall be deposited by the transfer agent

                                       9
<PAGE>   12

with the depositary agent) and the Company will direct the depositary agent to
comply with such request, (ii) requisition from the Company the amount of cash,
if any, to be paid in lieu of fractional shares in accordance with Section 14,
(iii) after receipt of such certificates or depositary receipts, cause the same
to be delivered to or upon the order of the registered holder of such Rights
Certificate, registered in such name or names as may be designated by such
holder, and (iv) after receipt thereof, deliver such cash, if any, to or upon
the order of the registered holder of such Rights Certificate. The payment of
the Purchase Price (as such amount may be reduced pursuant to Section 11
(a)(iii)) shall be made in cash or by certified bank check or bank draft
payable to the Company. If the Company is obligated to issue other securities
of the Company, pay cash, or distribute other property pursuant to Section
11(a), the Company will make all arrangements necessary so that such other
securities, cash, or other property are available for distribution by the
Rights Agent, if and when appropriate.

         (d)      If the registered holder of any Rights Certificate shall
exercise fewer than all the Rights evidenced thereby, the Rights Agent shall
issue and deliver a new Rights Certificate evidencing Rights equivalent to the
Rights remaining unexercised to, or upon the order of, the registered holder of
such Rights Certificate, registered in such name or names as may be designated
by such holder, subject to the provisions of Section 14.

         (e)      Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary,
after the first occurrence of a Section 11(a)(ii) Event, any Rights
beneficially owned by (i) an Acquiring Person or an Associate or Affiliate of
an Acquiring Person , (ii) a transferee of an Acquiring Person (or of any
Associate or Affiliate thereof) who becomes a transferee after the Acquiring
Person becomes such, or (iii) a transferee of an Acquiring Person (or of any
Associate or Affiliate thereof) who becomes a transferee before or concurrently
with the Acquiring Person's becoming such and receives such Rights pursuant to
either (A) a transfer (whether or not for consideration) from the Acquiring
Person to holders of equity interests in such Acquiring Person or to any Person
with whom the Acquiring Person has any continuing agreement, arrangement, or
understanding regarding the transferred Rights or (B) a transfer that the Board
of Directors of the Company has determined is part of a plan, arrangement, or
understanding that has the avoidance of this Section 7(e) as a primary purpose
or effect, shall become null and void without any further action and no holder
of such Rights shall have any rights whatsoever with respect to such Rights,
whether under any provision of this Agreement or otherwise. The Company shall
use all reasonable efforts to ensure that the provisions of this Section 7(e)
and Section 4(b) are complied with, but shall have no liability to any holder
of Rights Certificates or other Person as a result of its failure to make any
determinations with respect to an Acquiring Person, or their respective
Affiliates, Associates, or transferees under this Agreement.

         (f)      Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary,
neither the Rights Agent nor the Company shall be obligated to undertake any
action with respect to a registered holder upon the occurrence of any purported
exercise as set forth in this Section 7 unless such registered holder shall
have (i) completed and signed the certificate contained in the form of election
to purchase set forth on the reverse side of the Rights

                                      10
<PAGE>   13

Certificate surrendered for such exercise and (ii) provided such additional
evidence of the identity of the Beneficial Owner (or former Beneficial Owner)
or Affiliates or Associates thereof as the Company shall reasonably request.

         SECTION 8.        CANCELLATION AND DESTRUCTION OF RIGHTS CERTIFICATES.
All Rights Certificates surrendered for the purpose of exercise, transfer,
split up, combination, or exchange shall, if surrendered to the Company or any
of its agents, be delivered to the Rights Agent for cancellation or in
cancelled form, or, if surrendered to the Rights Agent, shall be cancelled by
it, and no Rights Certificates shall be issued in lieu thereof except as
expressly permitted by any of the provisions of this Agreement. The Company
shall deliver to the Rights Agent for cancellation and retirement, and the
Rights Agent shall so cancel and retire, any other Rights Certificate purchased
or acquired by the Company otherwise than upon the exercise thereof. The Rights
Agent shall deliver all cancelled Rights Certificates to the Company, or shall,
at the written request of the Company, destroy such cancelled Rights
Certificates, and in such case shall deliver a certificate of destruction
thereof to the Company.

         SECTION 9.        RESERVATION AND AVAILABILITY OF CAPITAL STOCK.

         (a)      Subject to the terms of its certificate of incorporation, the
Company agrees that it will use its best efforts to cause to be reserved out of
its authorized and unissued Preferred Stock the number of shares of Preferred
Stock that will be sufficient to permit the exercise in full of all outstanding
Rights, and, after the occurrence of a Triggering Event shall so reserve a
number of shares of Preferred Stock (or other securities) that will be
sufficient to permit the exercise in full of all outstanding rights according
to Section 7.

         (b)      So long as the shares of Preferred Stock (and, after the
occurrence of a Triggering Event, any other securities) issuable upon the
exercise of Rights may be listed on any national securities exchange or quoted
on NASDAQ, the Company shall use its best efforts to cause, from and after such
time as the Rights become exercisable, all shares of Preferred Stock or such
other securities reserved for such issuance to be listed on such exchange upon
official notice of issuance upon such exercise.

         (c)      The Company agrees that it will take all action that may be
necessary to ensure that all shares of Preferred Stock (or other securities)
delivered upon exercise of Rights shall, at the time of delivery of the
certificates for shares of Preferred Stock (or other securities) (subject to
payment of the Purchase Price), be duly and validly authorized and issued and
fully paid and nonassessable shares (except as otherwise provided by a
corporation law applicable to the Company).

         (d)      The Company further agrees that it will pay when due any
federal or state transfer taxes and charges that may be payable in respect of
the issuance or delivery of the Rights Certificates or of any shares of
Preferred Stock (or other securities) upon the exercise of Rights. The Company
shall not, however, be required to pay any transfer tax that may be payable in
respect of any transfer or delivery of Rights Certificates to a Person other
than, or the issuance or delivery of certificates for shares of Preferred Stock

                                      11
<PAGE>   14

(or other securities) in a name other than that of, the registered holder of
the Rights Certificate evidencing Rights surrendered for exercise, or to issue
or to deliver any certificates for shares of Preferred Stock (or other
securities) upon the exercise of any Rights until such tax shall have been paid
(any such tax being payable by the holder of such Rights Certificate at the
time of surrender) or until it has been established to the Company's reasonable
satisfaction that no such tax is due.

         (e)      The Company shall use its best efforts to (i) file, as soon
as practicable following the earliest date after the first occurrence of a
Section 11(a)(ii) Event or an exchange pursuant to Section 24 on which the
consideration to be delivered by the Company upon exercise or exchange of the
Rights has been determined in accordance with Section 11(a) or Section 24, as
the case may be, a registration statement under the Act, with respect to the
securities purchasable upon exercise of the Rights or exchanged for the Rights
on an appropriate form, (ii) cause such registration statement to become
effective as soon as practicable after such filing, and (iii) cause such
registration statement to remain effective (with a prospectus at all times
meeting the requirements of the Act) until the earlier of (A) the date as of
which the Rights are no longer exercisable for such securities, and (B) the
date of the expiration of the Rights. The Company will also take such action as
may be appropriate under, or to ensure compliance with, the securities or "blue
sky" laws of the various states in connection with the exercisability of the
Rights. The Company may temporarily suspend, for a period not to exceed 90 days
after the date set forth in clause (i) of the first sentence of this Section
9(e), the exercisability of the Rights in order to prepare and file such
registration statement and permit it to become effective. Upon any suspension
of the exercisability of the Rights referred to in this Section 9(e), the
Company shall issue a public announcement that the exercisability of the Rights
has been temporarily suspended, as well as a public announcement at such time
as the suspension is no longer in effect. Notwithstanding any provision of this
Agreement to the contrary, the Rights shall not be exercisable in any
jurisdiction unless the requisite qualification in such jurisdiction shall have
been obtained.

         SECTION 10.       PREFERRED STOCK RECORD DATE. Each person in whose
name any certificate for a number of shares of Preferred Stock (or other
securities) is issued upon the exercise of Rights shall for all purposes be
deemed to have become the holder of record of such shares of Preferred Stock
(or other securities) represented thereby, and such certificate shall be dated
the date upon which the Rights Certificate evidencing such Rights was duly
surrendered and payment of the Purchase Price (and all applicable transfer
taxes) was made. If the date of such surrender and payment is a date upon which
the Preferred Stock (or other securities) transfer books of the Company are
closed, such Person shall be deemed to have become the record holder of such
shares on, and such certificate shall be dated, the next succeeding Business
Day on which the Preferred Stock (or other securities) transfer books of the
Company are open. Before the exercise of the Rights evidenced thereby, the
holder of a Rights Certificate shall not be entitled to any rights of a
stockholder of the Company with respect to shares for which the Rights shall be
exercisable, and shall not be entitled to receive any notice of any proceedings
of the Company, except as provided in this Agreement.

                                      12
<PAGE>   15

         SECTION 11.       ADJUSTMENT OF PURCHASE PRICE, NUMBER AND KIND OF
SHARES, AND NUMBER OF RIGHTS. The Purchase Price, the number and kind of shares
covered by each Right, and the number of Rights outstanding are subject to
adjustment from time to time as provided in this Section 11.

         (a)      (i)      If the Company shall after the date of this
Agreement (A) declare a dividend on the Preferred Stock payable in shares of
Preferred Stock, (B) subdivide the outstanding Preferred Stock, (C) combine the
outstanding Preferred Stock into a smaller number of shares, or (D) issue any
shares of its capital stock in a reclassification of the Preferred Stock
(including any reclassification in connection with a consolidation or merger in
which the Company is the continuing or surviving corporation), except as
otherwise provided in this Section 11(a) and Section 7(e), the Purchase Price
in effect at the time of the Record Date for such dividend or of the effective
date of such subdivision, combination, or reclassification, and the number and
kind of shares of Preferred Stock issuable on such date, shall be
proportionately adjusted so that the holder of any Right thereafter exercised
shall be entitled to purchase the aggregate number and kind of shares of
Preferred Stock that, if the Right had been exercised immediately before such
date, he would have owned upon such exercise and been entitled to receive by
virtue of such dividend, subdivision, combination, or reclassification. If the
Record Date for any such dividend, subdivision, combination, or
reclassification shall occur before the Distribution Date, however, the Company
shall appropriately adjust the Purchase Price (taking into account any
additional Rights that may be issued as a result of such dividend, subdivision,
combination, or reclassification), in lieu of adjusting (as described above)
the number of shares of Preferred Stock (or other capital stock, as the case
may be) issuable upon exercise of the Rights. If an event occurs that would
require an adjustment under both this Section 11(a)(i) and Section 11(a)(ii),
the adjustment provided for in this Section 11(a)(i) shall be in addition to,
and shall be made before, any adjustment required pursuant to Section
11(a)(ii).

                  (ii)     Subject to Section 24, if any Person (other than an
Exempt Person), alone or together with its Affiliates and Associates, shall, at
any time after the Rights Dividend Declaration Date become an Acquiring Person
(a "Section 11(a)(ii) Event"), then immediately upon the occurrence thereof,
each holder of a Right (except as provided below and in Section 7(e) and
11(a)(iii)) shall thereafter have the right to receive, upon exercise thereof
at the then current Purchase Price (but in no event less than the par value per
share) multiplied by the number of one-hundredths of a share of Preferred Stock
for which a Right is then exercisable, in accordance with the terms of this
Agreement and in lieu of shares of Preferred Stock, such number of shares of
Common Stock of the Company as shall equal the result obtained by (x)
multiplying the then current Purchase Price by the then number of
one-hundredths of a share of Preferred Stock for which a Right was exercisable
(or, if the Distribution Date shall not have occurred before the date of such
Section 11(a)(ii) Event, the number of one-hundredths of a share of Preferred
Stock for which a Right would have been exercisable if the Distribution Date
had occurred on the Business Day immediately preceding the date of such Section
11(a)(ii) Event) immediately before such Section 11(a)(ii) Event and (y)

                                      13
<PAGE>   16

dividing that product by 50% of the current market price per one share of
Common Stock of the Company (determined pursuant to Section 11(d)) on the date
of the occurrence of the event set forth in this subparagraph (ii) (such number
of shares being referred to as the "Adjustment Share Amount"). Successive
adjustments shall be made pursuant to this paragraph each time a Section
11(a)(ii) Event occurs.

                  (iii)    The Company may at its option substitute for a share
of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of Rights in accordance with the
foregoing subparagraph (ii) a number of shares of Preferred Stock or fraction
thereof such that the current per share market price of one share of Preferred
Stock multiplied by such number or fraction is equal to the current per share
market price of one share of Common Stock. If there shall not be sufficient
shares of Common Stock issued but not outstanding or authorized but unissued to
permit the exercise in full of the Rights in accordance with the foregoing
subparagraph (ii), the Board of Directors shall, to the extent permitted by
applicable law and any material agreements then in effect to which the Company
is a party, (A) determine the excess of (1) the value of the Adjustment Share
Amount issuable upon the exercise of a Right (the "Current Value") over (2) the
Purchase Price (such excess, the "Spread"), and (B) with respect to each Right
(subject to Section 7(e)), make adequate provision to substitute for the
Adjustment Share Amount, upon payment of the applicable Purchase Price, (1)
cash, (2) a reduction in the Purchase Price (but in no event to less than the
par value per share), (3) Preferred Stock or other equity securities of the
Company (including, without limitation, shares, or units of shares, of
preferred stock that the Board of Directors of the Company has deemed to have
the same value as shares of Common Stock (such shares of preferred stock
referred to in this Agreement as "Common Stock Equivalents")), (4) debt
securities of the Company, (5) other assets, or (6) any combination of the
foregoing, having an aggregate value equal to the Current Value, where such
aggregate value has been determined by the Board of Directors of the Company
based upon the advice of a recognized investment banking firm selected by the
Board of Directors of the Company. If, however, the Company shall not have made
adequate provision to deliver value pursuant to clause (B) above within 30 days
following the later of (x) the first occurrence of a Section 11(a)(ii) Event
and (y) the date on which the Company's right of redemption pursuant to Section
23(a) expires (the later of (x) and (y) are referred to in this Agreement as
the "Section 11(a)(ii) Trigger Date"), then the Company shall be obligated to
deliver, upon the surrender for exercise of a Right and without requiring
payment of the Purchase Price (except for the payment of an amount equal to the
par value of each share), shares of Common Stock (to the extent available) and
then, if necessary, cash, which shares or cash have an aggregate value equal to
the Spread. If the Board of Directors of the Company shall determine in good
faith that it is likely that sufficient additional shares of Common Stock could
be authorized for issuance upon exercise in full of the Rights, the 30 day
period set forth above may be extended to the extent necessary, but not more
than 90 days after the Section 11(a)(ii) Trigger Date, so that the Company may
seek stockholder approval for the authorization of such additional shares (such
period, as it may be extended, is referred to in this Agreement as the
"Substitution Period"). If the Company determines that some action need be
taken pursuant to the first or second sentences of this Section 11(a)(iii), the
Company (x) shall provide, subject to Section 7(e), that such action shall
apply

                                      14
<PAGE>   17

uniformly to all outstanding Rights, and (y) may suspend the exercisability of
the Rights until the expiration of the Substitution Period in order to seek any
authorization of additional shares or to decide the appropriate form of
distribution to be made pursuant to such first sentence and to determine the
value thereof. If any such suspension occurs, the Company shall issue a public
announcement that the exercisability of the Rights has been temporarily
suspended, as well as a public announcement at such time as the suspension is
no longer in effect. For purposes of this Section 11(a)(iii), the value of the
Common Stock shall be the current market price (as determined pursuant to
Section 11(d)) per share of the Common Stock on the Section 11(a)(ii) Trigger
Date and the value of any Common Stock Equivalent shall be deemed to have the
same value as the Common Stock on such date.

                  (b)      If the Company shall fix a record date for the
issuance of rights (other than the Rights), options, or warrants to all holders
of Preferred Stock entitling them to subscribe for or purchase (for a period
expiring within 45 calendar days after such record date) Preferred Stock (or
shares having the same rights, privileges, and preferences as the shares of
Preferred Stock ("Equivalent Preferred Stock")) or securities convertible into
Preferred Stock or Equivalent Preferred Stock at a price per share of Preferred
Stock or per share of Equivalent Preferred Stock (or having a conversion price
per share, if a security convertible into Preferred Stock or Equivalent
Preferred Stock) less than the current market price per share of Preferred
Stock (as determined pursuant to Section 11(d)) on such record date, the
Purchase Price to be in effect after such record date shall be determined by
multiplying the Purchase Price in effect immediately before such record date by
a fraction, the numerator of which shall be the number of shares of Preferred
Stock outstanding on such record date plus the number of shares of Preferred
Stock that the aggregate offering price of the total number of shares of
Preferred Stock or Equivalent Preferred Stock to be offered (or the aggregate
initial conversion price of the convertible securities to be offered) would
purchase at such current market price, and the denominator of which shall be
the number of shares of Preferred Stock outstanding on such record date, plus
the number of additional shares of Preferred Stock or Equivalent Preferred
Stock to be offered for subscription or purchase (or into which the convertible
securities to be offered are initially convertible). In case such subscription
price may be paid fully or partially in a consideration in a form other than
cash, the value of such consideration shall be as determined in good faith by
the Board of Directors of the Company, whose determination shall be described
in a statement filed with the Rights Agent and shall be binding on the Rights
Agent and the holders of the Rights. Shares of Preferred Stock owned by or held
for the account of the Company shall not be deemed outstanding for the purpose
of any such computation. Such adjustment shall be made successively whenever
such a record date is fixed, and if such rights or warrants are not so issued,
the Purchase Price shall be adjusted to be the Purchase Price that would then
be in effect if such record date had not been fixed.

                  (c)      If the Company shall fix a record date for the
making of a distribution to all holders of Preferred Stock (including any such
distribution made in connection with a consolidation or merger in which the
Company is the continuing corporation) of evidence of indebtedness, cash (other
than a regular quarterly cash dividend out of the earnings or

                                      15
<PAGE>   18

retained earnings of the Company), assets (other than a dividend payable in
Preferred Stock, but including any dividend payable in stock other than
Preferred Stock) or convertible securities, subscription rights or warrants
(excluding those referred to in Section 11(b)), the Purchase Price to be in
effect after such record date shall be determined by multiplying the Purchase
Price in effect immediately before such record date by a fraction, the
numerator of which shall be the current market price (as defined in Section
11(d)) per share of Preferred Stock on such record date, less the fair market
value (as determined reasonably and with good faith to the holders of Rights by
the Board of Directors of the Company, whose determination shall be described
in a statement filed with the Rights Agent and shall be binding on the Rights
Agent) of the portion of the cash, assets, or evidence of indebtedness to be so
distributed or of such convertible securities, subscription rights, or warrants
distributable in respect of one share of Preferred Stock and the denominator of
which shall be the current market price (determined pursuant to Section 11(d))
per share of the Preferred Stock; however, in no event shall the consideration
to be paid upon the exercise of one Right be less than the aggregate par value
of the shares of capital stock of the Company to be issued upon exercise of one
Right. Such adjustments shall be made successively whenever such a record date
is fixed; and in the event that such distribution is not so made, the Purchase
Price shall again be adjusted to be the Purchase Price that would be in effect
if such record date had not been fixed.

         (d)      (i)      For the purpose of any computation under this
Agreement, other than computations made pursuant to Section 11(a)(iii), the
"current market price" per share of Common Stock on any date shall be deemed to
be the average of the daily closing prices per share of such Common Stock for
the 30 consecutive Trading Days (as defined below) immediately before such date
and for purposes of computations made pursuant to Section 11(a)(iii), the
"current market price" per share of Common Stock on any date shall be deemed to
be the average of the daily closing prices per share of such Common Stock for
the ten consecutive Trading Days immediately following such date. If the
"current market price" per share of the Common Stock is determined, however,
during a period following the announcement by the issuer of such Common Stock
of (A) a dividend or distribution on such Common Stock payable in shares of
such Common Stock or securities convertible into shares of such Common Stock
(other than the Rights), or (B) any subdivision, combination, or
reclassification of such Common Stock, and the ex-dividend date for such
dividend or distribution, or the record date for such subdivision, combination,
or reclassification, shall not have occurred before the commencement of the
requisite 30-Trading Day or 10-Trading Day period, as set forth above, then,
and in each such case, the "current market price" shall be properly adjusted to
take into account ex-dividend trading. The closing price for each day shall be
the last sale price, regular way, or, in case no such sale takes place on such
day, the average of the closing bid and asked prices, regular way, in either
case as reported in the principal consolidated transaction reporting system
with respect to securities listed or admitted to trading on NASDAQ or, if the
shares of Common Stock are not listed or admitted to trading on NASDAQ, as
reported in the principal consolidated transaction reporting system with
respect to securities listed on the principal national securities exchange on
which the shares of Common Stock are listed or admitted to trading or, if the
shares of

                                      16
<PAGE>   19

Common Stock are not listed or admitted to trading on any national securities
exchange, the last quoted price or, if not so quoted, the average of the high
bid and low asked prices in the over-the-counter market, as reported by NASDAQ
or such other system then in use, or, if on any such date the shares of Common
Stock are not quoted by any such organization, the average of the closing bid
and asked prices as furnished by a professional market maker making a market in
the Common Stock selected by the Board of Directors of the Company. If on any
such date no market maker is making a market in the Common Stock, the fair
value of such shares on such date as determined in good faith by the Board of
Directors of the Company shall be used. The term "Trading Day" means a day on
which the principal national securities exchange on which the shares of Common
Stock are listed or admitted to trading is open for the transaction of business
or, if the shares of Common Stock are not listed or admitted to trading on any
national securities exchange, a Business Day. If the Common Stock is not
publicly held or not so listed or traded, "current market price" per share
means the fair value per share as determined in good faith by the Board of
Directors of the Company, whose determination shall be described in a statement
filed with the Rights Agent and shall be conclusive for all purposes.

                  (ii)     For the purpose of any computation hereunder, the
"current market price" per share (or one one-hundredths of a share) of
Preferred Stock shall be determined in the same manner as set forth above for
the Common Stock in clause (i) of this Section 11(d) (other than the last
sentence thereof). If the current market price per share (or one one-hundredth
of a share) of Preferred Stock cannot be determined in the manner provided
above or if the Preferred Stock is not publicly held or listed or traded in a
manner described in clause (i) of this Section 11(d), the "current market
price" per share of Preferred Stock shall be conclusively deemed to be an
amount equal to 100 (as such number may be appropriately adjusted for such
events as stock splits, stock dividends, and recapitalizations with respect to
the Common Stock occurring after the date of this Agreement) multiplied by the
current market price per share of the Common Stock and the "current market
price" per one one-hundredth of a share of Preferred Stock shall be equal to
the current market price per share of the Common Stock (as appropriately
adjusted for such events as stock splits, stock dividends, and
recapitalizations with respect to the Common Stock occurring after the date of
this Agreement). If neither the Common Stock nor the Preferred Stock is
publicly held or so listed or traded, "current market price" per share shall
mean the fair value per share as determined in good faith by the Board of
Directors of the Company, whose determination shall be described in a statement
filed with the Rights Agent and shall be conclusive for all purposes.

         (e)      Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding,
no adjustment in the Purchase Price shall be required unless such adjustment
would require an increase or decrease of at least one percent in the Purchase
Price. Any adjustments that by reason of this Section 11(e) are not required to
be made shall be carried forward and taken into account in any subsequent
adjustment. All calculations under this Section 11 shall be made to the nearest
cent or to the nearest ten-thousandth of a share of Common Stock or other share
or one-millionth of a share of Preferred Stock, as the case

                                      17
<PAGE>   20

may be. Notwithstanding the first sentence of this Section 11(e), any
adjustment required by this Section 11 shall be made no later than the earlier
of (i) three years from the date of the transaction that requires such
adjustment or (ii) the Expiration Date.

         (f)      If as a result of an adjustment made pursuant to Section
11(a)(ii) or Section 13(a), the holder of any Right thereafter exercised shall
become entitled to receive any share or fraction of a share of capital stock
other than Preferred Stock, thereafter the number or fraction of such other
shares so receivable upon exercise of any Right and the Purchase Price thereof
shall be subject to adjustment from time to time in a manner and on terms as
nearly equivalent as practicable to the provisions with respect to the Common
Stock contained in Sections 11(a), (b), (c), (e), (g), (h), (i), (j), (k), and
(m), and the provisions of Sections 7, 9, 10, 13, and 14 with respect to the
Preferred Stock shall apply on like terms to any such other shares.

         (g)      All Rights originally issued by the Company after any
adjustment to the Purchase Price under this Agreement shall represent the right
to purchase, at the adjusted Purchase Price, the number of shares of Preferred
Stock purchasable from time to time under this Agreement upon exercise of the
Rights, all subject to further adjustment as provided herein.

         (h)      Unless the Company shall have exercised its election as
provided in Section 11(i), upon each adjustment of the Purchase Price as a
result of the calculations made in Sections 11(b) and (c), each Right
outstanding immediately before the making of such adjustment shall thereafter
represent the right to purchase, at the adjusted Purchase Price, that number of
one-hundredths of a share of Preferred Stock (calculated to the nearest
one-millionth) obtained by (i) multiplying (x) the number of one-hundredths of
a share of Preferred Stock covered by a Right immediately before this
adjustment, by (y) the Purchase Price in effect immediately before such
adjustment of the Purchase Price, and (ii) dividing the product so obtained by
the Purchase Price in effect immediately after such adjustment of the Purchase
Price.

         (i)      The Company may elect on or after the date of any adjustment
of the Purchase Price to adjust the number of Rights, in lieu of any adjustment
in the number of shares of Preferred Stock purchasable upon the exercise of a
Right. Each of the Rights outstanding after the adjustment in the number of
Rights shall be exercisable for the number of one-hundredths of a share of
Preferred Stock for which a Right was exercisable immediately before such
adjustment. Each Right held of record before such adjustment of the number of
Rights shall become that number of Rights (calculated to the nearest
ten-thousandth) obtained by dividing the Purchase Price in effect immediately
before such adjustment of the Purchase Price by the Purchase Price in effect
immediately after adjustment of the Purchase Price. The Company shall publicly
announce its election to adjust the number of Rights, indicating the record
date for the adjustment, and, if known at the time, the amount of the
adjustment to be made. This record date may be the date on which the Purchase
Price is adjusted or any day thereafter, but, if the Rights Certificates have
been issued, shall be at least ten days after the date of the public
announcement. If Rights Certificates have been issued, upon each adjustment of
the

                                      18
<PAGE>   21

number of Rights pursuant to this Section 11(i), the Company shall promptly
cause to be distributed to holders of record of Rights Certificates on such
record date Rights Certificates representing, subject to Section 14, the
additional Rights to which such holders shall be entitled as a result of such
adjustment, or shall cause to be distributed to such holders of record in
substitution and replacement for the Rights Certificates held by such holders
before the date of adjustment, and upon surrender thereof, if required by the
Company, new Rights Certificates evidencing all the Rights to which such
holders shall be entitled after such adjustment. Rights Certificates to be so
distributed shall be issued, executed, and countersigned in the manner provided
for herein (and may bear, at the option of the Company, the adjusted Purchase
Price) and shall be registered in the names of the holders of record of Rights
Certificates on the record date specified in the public announcement.

         (j)      Irrespective of any adjustment or change in the Purchase
Price or the number of shares of Preferred Stock issuable upon the exercise of
the Rights, any Rights Certificates issued may continue to express the Purchase
Price per share and the number of shares that were expressed in the initial
Rights Certificates issued under this Agreement.

         (k)      Before taking any action that would cause an adjustment
reducing the Purchase Price below the then par value, if any, of the shares of
Preferred Stock or other securities issuable upon exercise of the Rights, the
Company shall take any corporate action that may, in the opinion of its
counsel, be necessary in order that the Company may validly and legally issue
fully paid and nonassessable shares of Preferred Stock or other securities at
such adjusted Purchase Price. If upon any exercise of the Rights, a holder is
to receive a combination of Common Stock and common stock equivalents, a
portion of the consideration paid upon such exercise, equal to at least the
then par value of a share of Common Stock of the Company, shall be allocated at
the payment for each share of Common Stock of the Company so received.

         (l)      If this Section 11 requires that an adjustment in the
Purchase Price be made effective as of a record date for a specified event, the
Company may elect to defer until the occurrence of such event the issuance to
the holder of any Right exercised after such record date the number of shares
of Preferred Stock and other capital stock or securities of the Company, if
any, issuable upon such exercise over and above the number of shares of
Preferred Stock and other capital stock or securities of the Company, if any,
issuable upon such exercise on the basis of the Purchase Price in effect before
such adjustment.

         (m)      Anything in this Section 11 to the contrary notwithstanding,
the Company shall be entitled to make such reductions in the Purchase Price, in
addition to those adjustments expressly required by this Section 11, to the
extent that in their good faith judgment the Board of Directors of the Company
shall determine to be advisable so that any (i) consolidation or subdivision of
the Preferred Stock, (ii) issuance wholly for cash of any shares of Preferred
Stock at less than the current market price, (iii) issuance wholly for cash of
shares of Preferred Stock or securities that by their terms are

                                      19
<PAGE>   22

convertible into or exchangeable for shares of Preferred Stock, (iv) stock
dividends, or (v) issuance of rights, options, or warrants referred to in this
Section 11, hereafter made by the Company to holders of its Preferred Stock
shall not be taxable to such stockholders.

         (n)      The Company agrees that it shall not, after the Distribution
Date, (i) consolidate with any other Person (other than a Subsidiary of the
Company in a transaction that complies with Section 11(o)), (ii) merge with or
into any other Person (other than a Subsidiary of the Company in a transaction
that complies with Section 11(o)), or (iii) sell or transfer (or permit any
Subsidiary to sell or transfer), in one transaction, or a series of related
transactions, assets or earning power aggregating more than 50% of the assets
or earning power of the Company and its Subsidiaries (taken as a whole) to any
other Person or Persons (other than the Company or any of its Subsidiaries in
one or more transactions each of which complies with Section 11(o)), if (x) at
the time of or immediately after such consolidation, merger, or sale there are
any rights, warrants, or other instruments or securities outstanding or
agreements in effect that would substantially diminish or otherwise eliminate
the benefits intended to be afforded by the Rights or (y) before,
simultaneously with, or immediately after such consolidation, merger, or sale,
the stockholders of the Person who constitutes, or would constitute, the
"Principal Party" for purposes of Section 13(a) shall have received a
distribution of Rights previously owned by such Person or any of its Affiliates
and Associates.

         (o)      The Company agrees that, after the Distribution Date, it will
not, except as permitted by Section 23, Section 24, or Section 27, take (or
permit any Subsidiary to take) any action if at the time such action is taken
it is reasonably foreseeable that such action will diminish substantially or
otherwise eliminate the benefits intended to be afforded by the Rights.

         (p)      Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding,
if the Company after the Rights Dividend Declaration Date and before the
Distribution Date (i) declares a dividend on the outstanding shares of Common
Stock payable in shares of Common Stock, (ii) subdivides the outstanding shares
of Common Stock, or (iii) combines the outstanding shares of Common Stock into
a smaller number of shares, the number of Rights associated with each share of
Common Stock then outstanding, or issued or delivered thereafter but before the
Distribution Date, shall be proportionately adjusted so that the number of
Rights thereafter associated with each share of Common Stock following any such
event shall equal the result obtained by multiplying the number of Rights
associated with each share of Common Stock immediately before such event by a
fraction the numerator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common
Stock outstanding immediately before the occurrence of the event and the
denominator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock
outstanding immediately following the occurrence of such event.

         SECTION 12.       CERTIFICATE OF ADJUSTED PURCHASE PRICE OR NUMBER OF
SHARES. Whenever an adjustment is made as provided in Section 11 and Section
13, the Company shall (a) promptly prepare a certificate describing such
adjustment and a brief statement

                                      20
<PAGE>   23

of the facts giving rise to such adjustment, (b) promptly file with the Rights
Agent, and with the transfer agent for the Common Stock, a copy of such
certificate, and (c) mail a brief summary thereof to each holder of a Rights
Certificate (or, if before the Distribution Date, to each holder of a
certificate representing shares of Common Stock) in accordance with Section 26.
The Rights Agent shall be fully protected in relying on any such certificate
and on any adjustment contained therein and shall not be obligated or
responsible for calculating any adjustment nor shall it be deemed to have
knowledge of any such adjustment unless and until it shall have received such
certificate.

         SECTION 13.       CONSOLIDATION, MERGER, OR SALE OR TRANSFER OF ASSETS
OR EARNING POWER.

         (a)      If, following a Stock Acquisition Date, directly or
indirectly, (x) the Company shall consolidate with, or merge with and into, any
other Person (other than a Subsidiary of the Company in a transaction that
complies with Section 11(o)), and the Company shall not be the continuing or
surviving corporation of such consolidation or merger, (y) any Person (other
than a Subsidiary of the Company in a transaction that complies with Section
11(o)) shall consolidate with, or merge with or into, the Company, and the
Company shall be the continuing or surviving corporation of such consolidation
or merger and, in connection with such consolidation or merger, all or part of
the outstanding shares of Common Stock shall be changed into or exchanged for
stock or other securities of any other Person or cash or any other property, or
(z) the Company shall sell, mortgage, or otherwise transfer (or one or more of
its Subsidiaries shall sell, mortgage, or otherwise transfer), in one
transaction or a series of related transactions, assets or earning power
aggregating more than 50% of the assets or earning power of the Company and its
Subsidiaries (taken as a whole) to any Person or Persons (other than the
Company or any Subsidiary of the Company in one or more transactions each of
which complies with Section 11(o)), then, and in each such case, proper
provision shall be made so that: (i) each holder of a Right, except as provided
in Section 7(e), shall thereafter have the right to receive, upon the exercise
thereof at the then current Purchase Price in accordance with the terms of this
Agreement, such number of validly authorized and issued, fully paid,
nonassessable, and freely tradable shares of Common Stock of the Principal
Party, not subject to any liens, encumbrances, rights of call or first refusal
or other adverse claims, as shall be equal to the result obtained by (1)
multiplying the then current Purchase Price by the number of one-hundredths of
a share of Preferred Stock for which a Right is then exercisable (without
taking into account any adjustment previously made pursuant to Section
11(a)(ii)) and dividing that product (that, following the first occurrence of a
Section 13 Event, shall be referred to as the "Purchase Price" for each Right
and for all purposes of this Agreement) by (2) 50% of the current market price
(determined pursuant to Section 11(d)(i)) per share of the Common Stock of such
Principal Party on the date of consummation of such Section 13 Event; (ii) such
Principal Party shall thereafter be liable for, and shall assume, by virtue of
such Section 13 Event, all the obligations and duties of the Company pursuant
to this Agreement; (iii) the term "Company" shall thereafter be deemed to refer
to such Principal Party, it being specifically intended that the provisions of
Section 11 shall apply only to such Principal Party following the first
occurrence of a Section 13 Event; and (iv) such Principal Party

                                      21
<PAGE>   24

shall take such steps (including the reservation of a sufficient number of
shares of its Common Stock) in connection with the consummation of any such
transaction as may be necessary to assure that the provisions of this Agreement
shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as practicable, in relation to its
shares of Common Stock thereafter deliverable upon the exercise of the Rights.

         (b)      "Principal Party" means

                  (i)      in the case of any transaction described in clause
(x) or (y) of the first sentence of Section 13(a), the Person that is the
issuer of any securities into which shares of Common Stock of the Company are
converted in such merger or consolidation, and if no securities are so issued,
the Person that is the other party to such merger or consolidation, and

                  (ii)     in the case of any transaction described in clause
(z) of the first sentence of Section 13(a), the Person that is the party
receiving the greatest portion of the assets or earning power transferred
pursuant to such transaction or transactions;

         If, however, (1) the Common Stock of such Person is not at such time
and has not been continuously over the preceding 12-months registered under
Section 12 of the Exchange Act, and such Person is a direct or indirect
Subsidiary of another Person the Common Stock of which is and has been so
registered, "Principal Party" shall refer to such other Person; (2) in case
such Person is a Subsidiary, directly or indirectly, of more than one Person,
the Common Stock of two or more of which are and have been so registered,
"Principal Party" shall refer to whichever of such Persons is the issuer of the
Common Stock having the greatest aggregate market value; and (3) in case such
Person is owned, directly or indirectly, by a joint venture formed by two or
more Persons, the rules set forth in (1) and (2) above shall apply to each of
the Persons having an interest in such joint venture as if such joint venture
were a "Subsidiary" of both or all of such Persons and, in connection
therewith, "principal party" shall refer to each of such Persons and each such
principal party shall bear the obligations set forth in this Section 13 in the
same ratio as their direct or indirect interests in such joint venture bear to
the total of such interests.

         (c)      If, for any reason, the Rights cannot be exercised for the
Common Stock of such Principal Party, then a holder of Rights will have the
right to exchange each Right for cash from such Principal Party in an amount
equal to the Purchase Price as calculated above. If, for any reason, the
foregoing formulation cannot be applied to determine the cash amount to which
the holder of Rights is entitled, then the Board of Directors of the Company,
based upon the advice from one or more investment banking firms shall determine
such amount reasonably and in good faith.

         (d)      The Company shall not consummate any such consolidation,
merger, sale, or transfer unless the Principal Party shall have a sufficient
number of authorized shares of its Common Stock that have not been issued or
reserved for issuance to permit the exercise in full of the Rights in
accordance with this Section 13 and unless previously the

                                      22
<PAGE>   25

Company and such Principal Party shall have executed and delivered to the
Rights Agent a supplemental agreement providing for the terms set forth in
paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this Section 13 and further providing that, as
soon as practicable after the date of any consolidation, merger, or sale of
assets mentioned in paragraph (a) of this Section 13, the Principal Party will

                  (i)      prepare and file a registration statement under the
Act, with respect to the Rights and the securities purchasable upon exercise of
the Rights on an appropriate form, and will use its best efforts to cause such
registration statement to (A) become effective as soon as practicable after
such filing and (B) remain effective (with a prospectus at all times meeting
the requirements of the Act) until the Expiration Date;

                  (ii)     will deliver to holders of the Rights historical
financial statements for the Principal Party and each of its Affiliates that
comply in all respects with the requirements for registration on Form 10 under
the Exchange Act; and

                  (iii)    use its best efforts to qualify or register the
Rights and the securities purchasable upon exercise of the Rights under the
blue sky laws of such jurisdictions as may be necessary or appropriate.

         The provisions of this Section 13 shall similarly apply to successive
mergers, consolidations, sales, or other transfers. If a Section 13 Event shall
occur at any time after the occurrence of a Section 11(a)(ii) Event, the Rights
that have not previously been exercised shall become exercisable in the manner
described in Section 13(a).

         (e)      The provisions of this Section 13 shall similarly apply to
successive mergers or consolidations or sales or other transfers. If a Section
13 Event shall occur at any time after the occurrence of a Section 11(a)(ii)
Event, the Rights that have not theretofore been exercised shall be exercisable
in the manner described in Section 13(a).

         SECTION 14.       FRACTIONAL RIGHTS AND FRACTIONAL SHARES.

         (a)      The Company shall not be required to issue fractions of
Rights, except before the Distribution Date as provided in Section 11(p), or to
distribute Rights Certificates that evidence fractional Rights. In lieu of such
fractional Rights, there may be paid to the registered holders of the Rights
Certificates with regard to which such fractional Rights would otherwise be
issuable, an amount in cash equal to the same fraction of the current market
value of a whole Right. For purposes of this Section 14(a), the current market
value of a whole Right shall be the closing price of the Rights for the Trading
Day immediately before the date on which such fractional Rights would have been
otherwise issuable. The closing price of the Rights for any day shall be the
last sale price, regular way, or, in case no such sale takes place on such day,
the average of the closing bid and asked prices, regular way, in either case as
reported in the principal consolidated transaction reporting system with
respect to securities listed or admitted to trading on NASDAQ or, if the Rights
are not listed or admitted to trading on NASDAQ, as reported in the principal
consolidated transaction reporting system with respect to

                                       23
<PAGE>   26

securities listed on the principal national securities exchange on which the
Rights are listed or admitted to trading, or if the Rights are not listed or
admitted to trading on any national securities exchange, the last quoted price
or, if not so quoted, the average of the high bid and low asked prices in the
over-the-counter market, as reported by NASDAQ or such other system then in use
or, if on any such date the Rights are not quoted by any such organization, the
average of the closing bid and asked prices as furnished by a professional
market maker making a market in the Rights selected by the Board of Directors of
the Company. If on any such date no such market maker is making a market in the
Rights the fair value of the Rights on such date as determined in good faith by
the Board of Directors of the Company shall be used.

         (b)      The Company shall not be required to issue fractions of shares
of Preferred Stock (other than fractions that are integral multiples of one
one-hundredth of a share of Preferred Stock) upon exercise of the Rights or to
distribute certificates that evidence fractional shares of Preferred Stock
(other than fractions that are integral multiples of one one-hundredth of a
share of Preferred Stock). Fractions of shares of Preferred Stock in integral
multiples of one one-hundredth of a share of Preferred Stock may, at the
election of the Company, be evidenced by depositary receipts, pursuant to an
appropriate agreement between the Company and a depositary selected by it,
provided that such agreement shall provide that the holders of such depositary
receipts shall have all the rights, privileges, and preferences to which they
are entitled as beneficial owners of the shares of Preferred Stock represented
by such depositary receipts. In lieu of fractional shares of Preferred Stock
that are not integral multiples of one one-hundredth of a share of Preferred
Stock, the Company may pay to the registered holders of Rights Certificates at
the time such Rights are exercised as herein provided an amount in cash equal to
the same fraction of the current market value of one one-hundredth of a share of
Preferred Stock. For purposes of this Section 14(b), the current market value of
one one-hundredth of a share of Preferred Stock shall be one one-hundredth of
the closing price of a share of Preferred Stock (as determined pursuant to
Section 11(d)(ii) hereof) for the Trading Day immediately before the date of
such exercise.

         (c)      Following the occurrence of one of the transactions or events
specified in Section 11 giving rise to the right to receive common stock
equivalents (other than Preferred Stock) or other securities upon the exercise
of a Right, the Company shall not be required to issue fractions of shares or
units of such common stock equivalents or other securities upon exercise of the
Rights or to distribute certificates that evidence fractional shares of such
common stock equivalents or other securities. In lieu of fractional shares or
units of such common stock equivalents or other securities, the Company may pay
to the registered holders of Rights Certificates at the time such Rights are
exercised as herein provided an amount in cash equal to the same fraction of the
current market value of a share or unit of such common stock equivalent or other
securities. For purposes of this Section 14(c), the current market value of such
share or unit shall be determined in the manner set forth in Section 11(d)(i)
with respect to shares of Common Stock except that the current market price
shall be determined by reference only to the Trading Day immediately before the
date of such exercise.

                                       24
<PAGE>   27

         (d)      Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, the holder of a
Right by the acceptance of the Rights expressly waives his right to receive any
fractional Rights or any fractional shares upon exercise of a Right.

         SECTION 15.       RIGHTS OF ACTION. All rights of action in respect of
this Agreement, except those rights of action vested in the Rights Agent
pursuant to Sections 20 and 21, are vested in the respective registered holders
of the Rights Certificates (and, before the Distribution Date, the registered
holders of the Common Stock); and any registered holder of any Rights
Certificate (or, before the Distribution Date, of the Common Stock), without the
consent of the Rights Agent or of the holder of any other Rights Certificate
(or, before the Distribution Date, of the Common Stock), may, on his own behalf
and for his own benefit, enforce, and may institute and maintain any suit,
action, or proceeding against the Company to enforce, or otherwise act in
respect of, his right to exercise the Rights represented by such Rights
Certificate in the manner provided in such Rights Certificate and in this
Agreement. Without limiting the foregoing or any remedies available to the
holders of Rights, it is specifically acknowledged that the holders of Rights
would not have an adequate remedy at law for any breach of this Agreement and
shall be entitled to specific performance of the obligations under this
Agreement and injunctive relief against actual or threatened violations of the
obligations under this Agreement of any Person subject to this Agreement.

         SECTION 16.       AGREEMENT OF RIGHTS HOLDERS. Every holder of a Right
by accepting the same agrees with the Company and the Rights Agent and with
every other holder of a Right that:

         (a)      before the Distribution Date, the Rights will be transferable
only in connection with the transfer of Common Stock;

         (b)      after the Distribution Date, the Rights Certificates are
transferable only on the registry books of the Rights Agent if surrendered at
the principal office or offices of the Rights Agent designated for such purpose,
duly endorsed or accompanied by a proper instrument of transfer and with the
appropriate forms and certificates fully executed;

         (c)      subject to Section 6(a) and Section 7(f), the Company and the
Rights Agent may treat the person in whose name a Rights Certificate (or, before
the Distribution Date, the associated Common Stock certificate) is registered as
the absolute owner thereof and of the Rights represented thereby
(notwithstanding any notations of ownership or writing on the Rights
Certificates or the associated Common Stock certificate made by anyone other
than the Company or the Rights Agent) for all purposes whatsoever, and neither
the Company nor the Rights Agent, subject to the last sentence of Section 7(e),
shall be affected by any notice to the contrary; and

         (d)      notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary,
neither the Company nor the Rights Agent shall have any liability to any holder
of a Right or other Person as a result of their inability to perform any of
their obligations under this Agreement by reason of any preliminary or permanent
injunction or other order, decree or ruling issued by a court of competent
jurisdiction or by a governmental, regulatory or

                                       25
<PAGE>   28

administrative agency or commission, or any statute, rule, regulation, or
executive order promulgated or enacted by any governmental authority,
prohibiting or otherwise restraining performance of such obligation. The Company
must, however, use reasonable efforts promptly to have any such order, decree,
or ruling lifted or otherwise overturned.

         SECTION 17.        RIGHTS CERTIFICATE HOLDER NOT DEEMED A SHAREHOLDER.
No holder, as such, of any Rights Certificate shall be entitled to vote, receive
dividends, or be deemed for any purpose the holder of the fraction of a share
(or number of shares) of Preferred Stock, Common Stock, or any other securities
of the Company that may at any time be issuable on the exercise of the Rights
represented there-by, nor shall anything contained in this Agreement or in any
Rights Certificate be construed to confer upon the holder of any Rights
Certificate, as such, any of the rights of a stockholder of the Company or any
right to vote for the election of directors or upon any matter submitted to
stockholders at any meeting thereof, or to give or withhold consent to any
corporate action, or to receive notice of meetings or other actions affecting
stockholders (except as provided in Sections 24 and 25), or to receive dividends
or subscription rights, or otherwise, until the Right or Rights evidenced by
such Rights Certificate shall have been exercised in accordance with the
provisions of this Agreement.

         SECTION 18.       CONCERNING THE RIGHTS AGENT.

         (a)      The Company agrees to pay to the Rights Agent reasonable
compensation for services rendered by it under this Agreement and, on demand of
the Rights Agent, its reasonable expenses and counsel fees and disbursements
incurred in the exercise and performance of its duties under this Agreement. The
Company also agrees to indemnify the Rights Agent, its directors, officers,
employees, and agents for, and to hold each of them harmless against, any loss,
liability, or expense, incurred without gross negligence, bad faith, or willful
misconduct on the part of the Rights Agent or such other indemnified party, for
anything done or omitted by the Rights Agent or such other indemnified party in
connection with the acceptance and administration of this Agreement or the
performance of the Rights Agent's duties hereunder, including the costs and
expenses of defending against any claim of liability in the premises. The
indemnity provided for in this Agreement shall survive the expiration of the
Rights, the resignation or removal of the Rights Agent and the termination of
this Agreement.

         (b)      The Rights Agent shall be protected and shall incur no
liability for or with respect to any action taken, suffered, or omitted by it in
connection with its administration of this Agreement or the performance of the
Rights Agent's duties hereunder in reliance upon any Rights Certificate or
certificate for Preferred Stock, Common Stock, or for other securities of the
Company, instrument of assignment or transfer, power of attorney, endorsement,
affidavit, letter, notice, direction, consent, certificate, statement, or other
paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to be signed, executed and,
where necessary, verified or acknowledged, by the proper Person or Persons.

                                       26
<PAGE>   29

         SECTION 19.       MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION OR CHANGE OF NAME OF RIGHTS
                           AGENT.

         (a)      Any corporation into which the Rights Agent or any successor
Rights Agent may be merged or with which it may be consolidated, or any
corporation resulting from any merger or consolidation to which the Rights Agent
or any successor Rights Agent shall be a party, or any corporation succeeding to
the corporate trust business of the Rights Agent or any successor Rights Agent,
shall be the successor to the Rights Agent under this Agreement without the
execution or filing of any paper or any further act on the part of any of the
parties to this Agreement if such corporation would be eligible for appointment
as a successor Rights Agent under the provisions of Section 21. If such
successor Rights Agent shall succeed to the agency created by this Agreement,
any of the Rights Certificates shall have been countersigned but not delivered,
any such successor Rights Agent may adopt the countersignature of a predecessor
Rights Agent and deliver such Rights Certificates so countersigned; and if at
that time any of the Rights Certificates shall not have been countersigned, any
successor Rights Agent may countersign such Rights Certificates either in the
name of the predecessor or in the name of the successor Rights Agent; and in all
such cases such Rights Certificates shall have the full force provided in the
Rights Certificates and in this Agreement.

         (b)      If at any time the name of the Rights Agent shall be changed
and at such time any of the Rights Certificates shall have been countersigned
but not delivered, the Rights Agent may adopt the countersignature under its
prior name and deliver Rights Certificates so countersigned; and if at that time
any of the Rights Certificates shall not have been countersigned, the Rights
Agent may countersign such Rights Certificates either in its prior name or in
its changed name; and in all such cases such Rights Certificates shall have the
full force provided in the Rights Certificates and in this Agreement.

         SECTION 20.       DUTIES OF RIGHTS AGENT. The Rights Agent undertakes
the duties and obligations imposed by this Agreement upon the following terms
and conditions, all of which shall bind the Company and the holders of Rights
Certificates, by their acceptance thereof:

         (a)      The Rights Agent may consult with legal counsel (who may be
legal counsel for the Company), and the advice or opinion of such counsel shall
be full and complete authorization and protection to the Rights Agent as to any
action taken or omitted by it in good faith and in accordance with such advice
or opinion.

         (b)      Whenever in the performance of its duties under this
Agreement, the Rights Agent shall deem it desirable that any fact or matter
(including, without limitation, the identity of any Acquiring Person and the
determination of "current market price") be established by the Company before
taking or suffering any action under this Agreement, such fact or matter (unless
other evidence in respect thereto is specifically prescribed in this Agreement)
may be considered conclusively established by a certificate signed by the Chief
Executive Officer, the President, Chief Operating Officer, any Vice President,
the Treasurer, any Assistant Treasurer, the Secretary, or any Assistant
Secretary of the

                                       27
<PAGE>   30

Company and delivered to the Rights Agent; and such certificate shall be full
authorization to the Rights Agent for any action taken or suffered in good faith
by it under the provisions of this Agreement in reliance upon such certificate.

         (c)      The Rights Agent shall be liable under this Agreement only for
its own gross negligence, bad faith, or willful misconduct.

         (d)      The Rights Agent shall not be liable for or by reason of any
of the statements of fact or recitals contained in this Agreement or in the
Rights Certificates or be required to verify any such statements of fact or
recitals (except as to its countersignature on such Rights Certificates). All
such statements and recitals shall be considered to have been made only by the
Company.

         (e)      The Rights Agent shall not be responsible with respect to the
validity of this Agreement or the execution and delivery of this Agreement
(except the execution of this Agreement by the Rights Agent) or with respect to
the validity or execution of any Rights Certificate (except its countersignature
thereof); nor shall it be responsible for any breach by the Company of any
covenant or condition contained in this Agreement or in any Rights Certificate;
nor shall it be responsible for any adjustment required under the provisions of
Sections 11, 3, 23, 13, or 24 or the manner, method, or amount of any such
adjustment or the ascertaining of the existence of facts that would require any
such adjustment (except with respect to the exercise of Rights represented by
Rights Certificates after receipt of the certificate described in Section 12);
nor shall it be deemed by any act under this Agreement to make any
representation or warranty as to the authorization or reservation of any shares
of Common Stock to be issued pursuant to this Agreement or any Rights
Certificate or as to whether any shares of Common Stock will, when so issued, be
validly authorized and issued, fully paid, and nonassessable.

         (f)      The Company agrees that it will perform, execute, acknowledge,
and deliver or cause to be performed, executed, acknowledged, and delivered all
such further and other acts, instruments, and assurances as may reasonably be
required by the Rights Agent for the carrying out or performing by the Rights
Agent of the provisions of this Agreement.

         (g)      The Rights Agent is hereby authorized and directed to accept
instructions with respect to the performance of its duties under this Agreement
from the Chief Executive Officer, the President, Chief Operating Officer, any
Vice President, the Secretary, any Assistant Secretary, the Treasurer, or any
Assistant Treasurer of the Company, and to apply to such officers for advice or
instructions in connection with its duties, and it shall not be liable for any
action taken or suffered to be taken by it in good faith in accordance with
instructions of any such officer or for any delay in acting while awaiting
instructions. Any application by the Rights Agent for written instructions from
the Company may, at the option of the Rights Agent, set forth in writing any
action proposed to be taken or omitted by the Rights Agent in accordance with
its rights and obligations under this Rights Agreement and the date on or after
which such action shall be taken or such omission shall be effective. The Rights
Agent shall not be liable for any action taken by, or omission of, the Rights
Agent in accordance with a proposal included

                                       28
<PAGE>   31

in any such application on or after the date specified in such application
(which date shall not be less than five Business Days after the date any officer
of the Company actually receives such application, unless any such officer shall
have consented in writing to an earlier date) unless, before taking any such
action (or the effective date in the case of an omission), the Rights Agent
shall have received written instructions from an officer of the Company
objecting to the action to be taken or omitted as specified in such application.

         (h)      The Rights Agent and any stockholder, director, officer, or
employee of the Rights Agent may buy, sell, or deal in any of the Rights or
other securities of the Company or become pecuniarily interested in any
transaction in which the Company may be interested, or contract with or lend
money to the Company or otherwise act as fully and freely as though it were not
Rights Agent under this Agreement. Nothing in this Agreement shall preclude the
Rights Agent from acting in any other capacity for the Company or for any other
legal entity.

         (i)      The Rights Agent may execute and exercise any of the rights or
powers hereby vested in it or perform any duty under this Agreement either
itself or by or through its attorneys or agents, and the Rights Agent shall not
be answerable or accountable for any act, default, neglect, or misconduct of any
such attorneys or agents or for any loss to the Company resulting from any such
act, default, neglect, or misconduct, if the Rights Agent was not grossly
negligent in the selection and continued employment thereof.

         (j)      No provision of this Agreement shall require the Rights Agent
to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in
the performance of any of its duties under this Agreement or in the exercise of
its rights, if there shall be reasonable grounds for believing that repayment of
such funds or adequate indemnification against such risk or liability is not
reasonably assured to it.

         (k)      If, with respect to any Rights Certificate surrendered to the
Rights Agent for exercise or transfer, the certificate attached to the form of
assignment or form of election to purchase, as the case may be, has either not
been completed or indicates an affirmative response to clause 1 or 2 thereof,
the Rights Agent shall not take any further action with respect to such
requested exercise of transfer without first consulting with the Company.

         (l)      The Rights Agent undertakes only the express duties and
obligations imposed on it by this Agreement and no implied duties or obligations
shall be read into this Agreement against the Rights Agent.

         (m)      Anything in this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, in
no event shall the Rights Agent be liable for special, indirect or consequential
loss or damage of any kind whatsoever (including but not limited to lost
profits).

         SECTION 21.       CHANGE OF RIGHTS AGENT. The Rights Agent or any
successor Rights Agent may resign and be discharged from its duties under this
Agreement upon 60 days'

                                       29
<PAGE>   32

notice (or such lesser notice as is acceptable to the Company) in writing mailed
to the Company, and to each transfer agent of the Common Stock, by registered or
certified mail, and to the holders of the Rights Certificates by first-class
mail. The Company may remove the Rights Agent or any successor Rights Agent upon
60 days' notice in writing, mailed to the Rights Agent or successor Rights
Agent, as the case may be, and to the transfer agent of the Common Stock, by
registered or certified mail, and to the holders of the Rights Certificates by
first-class mail. If the Rights Agent shall resign or be removed or shall
otherwise become incapable of acting, the Company shall appoint a successor to
the Rights Agent. If the Company shall fail to make such appointment within 60
days after giving notice of such removal or after it has been notified in
writing of such resignation or incapacity by the resigning or incapacitated
Rights Agent or by the holder of a Rights Certificate (who shall, with such
notice, submit his Rights Certificate for inspection by the Company), then any
registered holder of any Rights Certificate may apply to any court of competent
jurisdiction for the appointment of a new Rights Agent. Any successor Rights
Agent, whether appointed by the Company or by a court, shall be a corporation
organized and doing business under the laws of the United States or of any state
of the United States, in good standing, that is authorized under such laws to
exercise corporate trust or stock transfer powers and is subject to supervision
or examination by federal or state authority and that has at the time of its
appointment as Rights Agent a combined capital and surplus of at least $100
million. After appointment, the successor Rights Agent shall be vested with the
same powers, rights, duties, and responsibilities as if it had been originally
named as Rights Agent without further act or deed; but the predecessor Rights
Agent shall deliver and transfer to the successor Rights Agent any property at
the time held by it under this Agreement, and execute and deliver any further
assurance, conveyance, act, or deed necessary for the purpose. Not later than
the effective date of any such appointment, the Company shall file notice
thereof in writing with the predecessor Rights Agent and each transfer agent of
the Common Stock and mail a notice thereof in writing to the registered holders
of the Rights Certificates. Failure to give any notice provided for in this
Section 21, however, or any defect therein, shall not affect the legality or
validity of the resignation or removal of the Rights Agent or the appointment of
the successor Rights Agent, as the case may be.

         SECTION 22.       ISSUANCE OF NEW RIGHTS CERTIFICATES. Notwithstanding
any of the provisions of this Agreement or of the Rights to the contrary, the
Company may, at its option, issue new Rights Certificates representing Rights in
such form as may be approved by its Board of Directors to reflect any adjustment
or change in the Purchase Price and the number or kind or class of shares or
other securities or property purchasable under the Rights Certificates made in
accordance with the provisions of this Agreement. In addition, in connection
with the issuance or sale of shares of Common Stock following the Distribution
Date and before the redemption or expiration of the Rights, the Company (a)
shall, with respect to shares of Common Stock so issued or sold pursuant to the
exercise of stock options or under any employee plan or arrangement, or upon the
exercise, conversion, or exchange of securities hereinafter issued by the
Company, and (b) may, in any other case, if deemed appropriate by the Board of
Directors of the Company, issue Rights Certificates representing the appropriate
number of Rights in connection with such issuance or sale, however, (i) no such
Rights Certificate shall be

                                       30
<PAGE>   33

issued if, and to the extent that, the Company shall be advised by counsel that
such issuance would create a significant risk of material adverse tax
consequences to the Company or the Person to whom such Rights Certificate would
be issued and (ii) no such Rights Certificate shall be issued if, and to the
extent that, appropriate adjustment shall otherwise have been made in lieu of
the issuance thereof.

         SECTION 23.       REDEMPTION AND TERMINATION.

         (a)      The Board of Directors of the Company may, at its option, at
any time before the earlier of (i) the Close of Business on the tenth day
following the Stock Acquisition Date (or such later date as the Board of
Directors of the Company may determine) or (ii) the Final Expiration Date,
redeem all but not less than all the then outstanding Rights at a redemption
price of $.001 per Right, as such amount may be appropriately adjusted to
reflect any stock split, stock dividend, or similar transaction occurring after
the date of this Agreement (such redemption price is referred to in this
Agreement as the "Redemption Price"). Notwithstanding anything contained in this
Agreement to the contrary, the Rights shall not be exercisable after the first
occurrence of a Section 11(a)(ii) Event until such time as the Company's right
of redemption under this Agreement has expired. The Company may, at its option,
pay the Redemption Price either in shares of Common Stock (based on the "current
market price," as defined in Section 11(d), of the shares of Common Stock at the
time of redemption), cash, or any form of consideration deemed appropriate by
the Company's Board of Directors.

         (b)      Immediately upon the action of the Board of Directors of the
Company ordering the redemption of the Rights, evidence of which shall have been
filed with the Rights Agent and without any further action or notice, the right
to exercise the Rights will terminate and the only right thereafter of the
holders of Rights shall be to receive the Redemption Price. Promptly after the
action of the Board of Directors ordering the redemption of the Rights, the
Company shall give notice of such redemption to the Rights Agent and the holders
of the then outstanding Rights by mailing such notice to all such holders at
their last addresses as they appear upon the registry books of the Rights Agent
or, before the Distribution Date, on the registry books of the Transfer Agent
for the Common Stock. Any notice that is mailed in the manner provided in this
Agreement shall be deemed given, whether or not the holder receives the notice.
Each such notice of redemption will state the method by which the payment of the
Redemption Price will be made.

         SECTION 24.       EXCHANGE.

         (a)      The Board of Directors of the Company may, at its option, at
any time after any Person becomes an Acquiring Person, exchange all or part of
the then outstanding and exercisable Rights (which would not include Rights that
have become void pursuant to the provisions of Section 7(e)) for shares of
Common Stock of the Company at an exchange ratio of one share of Common Stock
per Right, appropriately adjusted to reflect any stock split, stock dividend, or
similar transaction occurring after the date of this Agreement (the "Exchange
Ratio"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the

                                       31
<PAGE>   34

Board of Directors shall not be empowered to effect such exchange at any time
after any Person (other than an Exempt Person), together with all Affiliates and
Associates of such Person, becomes the Beneficial Owner of 50% or more of the
shares of Common Stock then outstanding.

         (b)      Immediately upon the action of the Board of Directors of the
Company ordering the exchange of any Rights pursuant to paragraph (a) of this
Section 24 and without any further action or notice, the right to exercise such
Rights shall terminate and the only right thereafter of a holder of such Rights
shall be to receive that number of shares of Common Stock equal to the number of
such Rights held by such holder, multiplied by the Exchange Ratio. The Company
promptly shall give public notice of any such exchange; however, the failure to
give, or any defect in, such notice shall not affect the validity of such
exchange. The Company promptly shall mail a notice of any such exchange to all
the holders of such Rights at their last addresses as they appear upon the
registry books of the Rights Agent. Any notice that is mailed as provided in
this Agreement shall be deemed given, whether or not the holder receives the
notice. Each such notice of exchange will state the method by which the exchange
of the shares of Common Stock for Rights will be effected and, in the event of a
partial exchange, the number of Rights that will be exchanged. Any partial
exchange shall be effected pro rata based on the number of Rights (other than
Rights that have become void pursuant to the provisions of Section 7(e)) held by
each holder of Rights.

         (c)      In any exchange pursuant to this Section 24, the Company, at
its option, may substitute shares of Preferred Stock (or Equivalent Preferred
Stock, as such term is defined in Section 11(b) hereof) for shares of Common
Stock exchangeable for Rights, at the initial rate of one one-hundredth of a
share of Preferred Stock (or Equivalent Preferred Stock) for each share of
Common Stock, as appropriately adjusted to reflect adjustments in the voting
rights of the shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms thereof, so that
the fraction of a share of Preferred Stock delivered in lieu of each share of
Common Stock shall have the same voting rights as one share of Common Stock.

         (d)      If the Company shall not have sufficient shares of Common
Stock authorized but unissued to permit any exchange of Rights as contemplated
in accordance with this Section 24, the Company shall take all action necessary
to authorize additional shares of Common Stock for issuance upon exchange of the
Rights.

         (e)      The Company shall not be required to issue fractions of shares
of Common Stock or to distribute certificates that represent fractions of shares
of Common Stock. In lieu of such fractional shares of Common Stock, the Company
may pay to the registered holders of the Rights Certificates with regard to
which such fractional shares of Common Stock would otherwise be issuable an
amount in cash equal to the same fraction of the current market value of a whole
share of Common Stock. For purposes of this paragraph (e), the current market
value of a whole share of Common Stock shall be the closing price of a share of
Common Stock (as determined pursuant to the second sentence of Section 11(d)(i))
for the Trading Day immediately before to the date of exchange pursuant to this
Section 24.

                                       32
<PAGE>   35

         SECTION 25.       NOTICE OF CERTAIN EVENTS.

         (a)      If the Company proposes, at any time after the Distribution
Date, (i) to pay any dividend payable in stock of any class to the holders of
Common Stock or to make any other distribution to the holders of Common Stock
(other than a regular quarterly cash dividend out of earnings or retained
earnings of the Company), or (ii) to offer to the holders of Common Stock rights
or warrants to subscribe for or to purchase any additional shares of Common
Stock or shares of stock of any class or any other securities, rights or
options, or (iii) to effect any reclassification of its Common Stock (other than
a reclassification involving only the subdivision of outstanding shares of
Common Stock), or (iv) to effect any consolidation or merger into or with any
other Person (other than a Subsidiary of the Company in a transaction that
complies with Section 11(o)), or to effect any sale or other transfer (or to
permit one or more of its Subsidiaries to effect any sale or other transfer), in
one transaction or a series of related transactions of more than 50% of the
assets or earning power of the Company and its Subsidiaries (taken as a whole)
to any other Person or Persons (other than the Company or any of its
Subsidiaries in one or more transactions each of which complies with Section
11(o)), or (v) to effect the liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the
Company, then, in each such case, the Company shall give to each holder of a
Rights Certificate, to the extent feasible and in accordance with Section 26, a
notice of such proposed action that specifies the record date for such stock
dividend, distribution of rights, or the date on which such reclassification,
consolidation, merger, sale, transfer, liquidation, dissolution, or winding up
is to take place and the date of participation therein by the holders of the
shares of Common Stock, if any such date is to be fixed, and such notice shall
be so given in the case of any action covered by clause (i) or (ii) above at
least 20 days before the record date for determining holders of the shares of
Common Stock for purposes of such action, and in the case of any such other
action, at least 20 days before the date of the taking of such proposed action
or the date of participation therein by the holders of the shares of Common
Stock, whichever is earlier.

         (b)      In case any of the events described in Section 11(a)(ii) shall
occur, (i) the Company shall as soon as practicable thereafter give to each
holder of a Rights Certificate, to the extent feasible and in accordance with
Section 26, a notice of the occurrence of such event that specifies the event
and the consequences of the event to holders of Rights under Section 11(a)(ii)
and (ii) all references in the preceding paragraph to Common Stock shall be
deemed thereafter to refer, if appropriate, to other securities.

         SECTION 26.       NOTICES. Any notice, demand, or delivery authorized
by this Agreement to be given or made by the Rights Agent or by the holder of
any Rights Certificate to or on the Company shall be sufficiently given or made
if sent by first-class mail, postage-prepaid, addressed (until another address
is filed in writing with the Rights Agent) as follows:

                                       33
<PAGE>   36

                           Pinnacle Holdings Inc
                           301 North Cattlemen Road, Suite 300
                           Sarasota, Florida 34232
                           Attention: Chief Executive Officer

         Copies to:

                           Holland & Knight LLP
                           400 N. Ashley Drive, Suite 2300
                           Tampa, FL  33602
                           Attention: Chester E. Bacheller, Esq.

Subject to the provisions of Section 21, any notice or demand authorized by this
Agreement to be given or made by the Company or by the holder of any Rights
Certificate to or on the Rights Agent shall be sufficiently given or made if
sent by first-class mail, postage-prepaid, addressed (until another address is
filed in writing with the Company) as follows:

                           First Union National Bank
                           1525 West W.T. Harris Boulevard, 3C3
                           Charlotte, North Carolina 28288-1153
                           Attention:  Shareholder Services Group

         Notices or demands that this Agreement authorizes the Company or the
Rights Agent to give to the holder of any Rights Certificate (or, if before the
Distribution Date, to the holder of certificates representing shares of Common
Stock) shall be sufficiently given or made if sent by first-class mail,
postage-prepaid, addressed to such holder at the address of such holder as shown
on the registry books of the Company.

         SECTION 27.       SUPPLEMENTS AND AMENDMENTS. Before the Distribution
Date and subject to the penultimate sentence of this Section 27, the Company and
the Rights Agent shall, if the Company so directs, supplement or amend any
provision of this Agreement without the approval of any holders of certificates
representing shares of Common Stock. Beginning on the Distribution Date, the
Company and the Rights Agent shall, if the Company so directs, supplement or
amend this Agreement without the approval of any holders of Rights Certificates
in order (i) to cure any ambiguity, (ii) to correct or supplement any provision
contained in this Agreement that may be defective or inconsistent with any other
provisions in this Agreement, (iii) to shorten or lengthen any time period under
this Agreement, or (iv) to change or supplement the provisions under this
Agreement in any manner that the Company may deem necessary or desirable and
that shall not adversely affect the interests of the holders of Rights
Certificates (other than an Acquiring Person or an Affiliate or Associate of an
Acquiring Person); however, this Agreement may not be supplemented or amended to
lengthen, pursuant to clause (iii) of this sentence, (A) a period relating to
when the Rights may be redeemed at such time as the Rights are not then
redeemable, or (B) any other period unless such lengthening is for the purpose
of protecting, enhancing, or clarifying the rights of, or the benefits to, the

                                       34
<PAGE>   37

holders of Rights. Upon the delivery of a certificate from an appropriate
officer of the Company that states that the proposed supplement or amendment is
in compliance with the terms of this Section 27, the Rights Agent shall execute
such supplement or amendment. Notwithstanding anything contained in this
Agreement to the contrary, no supplement or amendment shall be made that changes
the rights or duties of the Rights Agent under this Agreement without the
consent of the Rights Agent. Before the Distribution Date, the interests of the
holders of Rights shall be deemed coincident with the interests of the holders
of Common Stock.

         SECTION 28.       SUCCESSORS. All the provisions of this Agreement
by or for the benefit of the Company or the Rights Agent shall bind and inure to
the benefit of their respective successors and assigns under this Agreement.

         SECTION 29.       DETERMINATIONS AND ACTIONS BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
For all purposes of this Agreement, any calculation of the number of shares of
Common Stock outstanding at any particular time, including for purposes of
determining the particular percentage of such outstanding shares of Common Stock
of which any Person is the Beneficial Owner, shall be made in accordance with
the last sentence of Rule 13d-3(d)(1)(i) of the General Rules and Regulations
under the Exchange Act. The Board of Directors of the Company shall have the
exclusive power and authority to administer this Agreement and to exercise all
rights and powers specifically granted to the Board or to the Company, or as may
be necessary or advisable in the administration of this Agreement, including,
the right and power to (i) interpret the provisions of this Agreement, and (ii)
make all determinations considered advisable for the administration of this
Agreement (including a determination to redeem or not redeem the Rights or to
amend the Agreement). All such actions, calculations, interpretations, and
determinations (including, for purposes of clause (y) below, all omissions with
respect to the foregoing) that are done or made by the Board in good faith,
shall (x) be final, conclusive, and binding on the Company, the Rights Agent,
the holders of the Rights, and all other parties, and (y) not subject the Board
of Directors to any liability to the holders of the Rights.

         SECTION 30.       BENEFITS OF THIS AGREEMENT. Nothing in this Agreement
shall be construed to give to any Person other than the Company, the Rights
Agent, and the registered holders of the Rights Certificates (and, before the
Distribution Date, registered holders of the Common Stock) any legal or
equitable right, remedy, or claim under this Agreement; but this Agreement shall
be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Company, the Rights Agent, and the
registered holders of the Rights Certificates (and, before the Distribution
Date, registered holders of the Common Stock).

         SECTION 31.       SEVERABILITY. If any provision of this Agreement is
held by a court of competent jurisdiction or other authority to be invalid,
void, or unenforceable, the remainder of the provisions of this Agreement shall
remain in full force and effect and shall in no way be affected, impaired, or
invalidated. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if any
such provision is held by such court or authority to be invalid, void, or
unenforceable and the Board of Directors determines in its good faith

                                       35
<PAGE>   38

judgment that severing the invalid language from this Agreement would adversely
affect the purpose or effect of this Agreement, the right of redemption set
forth in Section 23 shall be reinstated and shall not expire until the Close of
Business on the tenth day following the date of such determination by the Board
of Directors. Without limiting the foregoing, if any provision requiring that a
determination be made by less than the entire Board of Directors is held by a
court of competent jurisdiction or other authority to be invalid, void, or
unenforceable, such determination shall then be made by the entire Board in
accordance with applicable law and the Company's Certificate of Incorporation
and Bylaws.

         SECTION 32.       GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement, each Right and each
Rights Certificate issued hereunder shall be deemed to be a contract made under
the laws of the State of Florida and for all purposes shall be governed by and
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware applicable to
contracts made and to be performed entirely within the State of Delaware.

         SECTION 33.       COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in any
number of counterparts and each of such counterparts shall for all purposes be
deemed to be an original, and all such counterparts shall together constitute
but one and the same instrument.

         SECTION 34.       DESCRIPTIVE HEADINGS. Descriptive headings of the
several sections of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and shall
not control or affect the meaning or construction of any of the provisions of
this Agreement.

                                       36
<PAGE>   39

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be duly
executed and attested, all as of the day and year first above written.

Attest: /s/ Jeffrey Card                          PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC.
        -----------------------------
        Chief Financial Officer

                                                  By: /s/ Steven R. Day
                                                      --------------------------

                                                  Name: Steven R. Day
                                                        ------------------------

                                                  Title: Chief Operating Officer
                                                         -----------------------

                                                  FIRST UNION NATIONAL BANK,
                                                  a national banking institution

                                                  By: /s/ DeVonna L. Musley
                                                      --------------------------

                                                  Name: DeVonna L. Musley
                                                        ------------------------

                                                  Title: Corporate Trust Officer
                                                         -----------------------

                                       37
<PAGE>   40

                                    Exhibit A

               FORM OF CERTIFICATE OF DESIGNATION, PREFERENCES AND
                       RIGHTS OF SERIES C PREFERRED STOCK

                                       of

                             PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC.

         Pursuant to Section 151 of the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware, the undersigned officer of Pinnacle Holdings Inc., a corporation
organized and existing under the General Corporation Law of the State of
Delaware (the "Corporation"), in accordance with the provisions of

Section 103 thereof, DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

         That pursuant to the authority conferred upon the Board of Directors by
the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, the Board of Directors on
December 22, 2000, adopted the following resolution creating a series of
2,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock designated as Series C Preferred Stock:

         RESOLVED, that pursuant to the authority vested in the Board of
Directors of this Corporation in accordance with the provisions of its
Certificate of Incorporation, a series of Preferred Stock of the Corporation be
and it hereby is created, and that the designation and amount thereof and the
voting powers, preferences and relative, participating, optional and other
special rights of the shares of such series, and the qualifications,
limitations, or restrictions thereof are as follows:

Section 1.        Designation and Amount. The shares of such series shall be
designated as "Series C Preferred Stock" par value of $.001 per share, and the
number of shares constituting such series shall be 2,000,000. Such number of
shares may be increased or decreased by resolution of the Board of Directors;
provided, that no decrease shall reduce the number of shares of Series C
Preferred Stock to a number less than that of the shares then outstanding plus
the number of shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding rights, options, or
warrants or upon conversion of outstanding securities issued by the Corporation.

Section 2.        Dividends and Distributions.

                  (A)      The holders of shares of Series C Preferred Stock
shall be entitled to receive, when, as, and if declared by the Board of
Directors out of funds legally available for the purpose, quarterly dividends
payable in cash on the last day of March, June, September, and December in each
year (each such date being referred to herein as a "Quarterly Dividend Payment
Date"), commencing on the first Quarterly Dividend Payment Date after the first
issuance of a share or fraction of a share of Series C Preferred Stock, in an

                                       38
<PAGE>   41

amount per share (rounded to the nearest cent) equal to the greater of (a) $1.00
or (b) subject to the provision for adjustment hereinafter set forth, 100 times
the aggregate per share amount of all cash dividends, and non-cash (payable in
kind) dividends or other distributions other than a dividend payable in shares
of common stock (as defined below) or a subdivision of the outstanding shares of
common stock (by reclassification or otherwise), declared on the common stock,
par value $0.001 per share, of the Corporation (the "Common Stock") since the
immediately preceding Quarterly Dividend Payment Date, or, with respect to the
first Quarterly Dividend Payment Date, since the first issuance of any share or
fraction of a share of Series C Preferred Stock. If the Corporation shall at any
time after December 22, 2000 (the "Rights Dividend Declaration Date") (i)
declare any dividend on Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock, (ii)
subdivide the outstanding Common Stock, or (iii) combine the outstanding Common
Stock into a smaller number of shares, then in each such case the amount to
which holders of shares of Series C Preferred Stock were entitled immediately
before such event under clause (b) of the preceding sentence shall be adjusted
by multiplying such amount by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of
shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately after such event and the
denominator of which is the number of shares of Common Stock that were
outstanding immediately before such event.

                  (B)      The Corporation shall declare a dividend or
distribution on the outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock as provided
in paragraph (A) above immediately after it declares a dividend or distribution
on the Common Stock (other than a dividend payable in shares of Common Stock);
provided that, if no dividend or distribution shall have been declared on the
Common Stock during the period between any Quarterly Dividend Payment Date and
the next subsequent Quarterly Dividend Payment Date, a dividend of $.25 per
share on the outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock shall nevertheless
be payable on such subsequent Quarterly Dividend Payment Date.

                  (C)      Dividends shall begin to accrue and be cumulative on
outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock from the Quarterly Dividend
Payment Date next preceding the date of issue of such shares of Series C
Preferred Stock, unless the date of issue of such shares is before the record
date for the first Quarterly Dividend Payment Date, in which case dividends on
such shares shall begin to accrue from the date of issue of such shares, or
unless the date of issue is a Quarterly Dividend Payment Date or is a date after
the record date for the determination of holders of shares of Series C Preferred
Stock entitled to receive a quarterly dividend and before such Quarterly
Dividend Payment Date, in either of which events such dividends shall begin to
accrue and be cumulative from such Quarterly Dividend Payment Date. Accrued but
unpaid dividends shall not bear interest. Dividends paid on the shares of Series
C Preferred Stock in an amount less than the total amount of such dividends at
the time accrued and payable on such shares shall be allocated pro rata on a
share-by-share basis among all such shares at the time outstanding. The Board of
Directors may fix a record date for the determination of holders of shares of
Series C Preferred Stock entitled to receive payment of a dividend or
distribution declared thereon, which record date shall be no more than 30 days
before the date fixed for the payment thereof.

                                       39
<PAGE>   42

Section 3.        Voting Rights. The holders of shares of Series C Preferred
                  Stock shall have the following voting rights:

                  (A)      Subject to the provision for adjustment hereinafter
set forth, each share of Series C Preferred Stock shall entitle the holder
thereof to 100 votes on all matters submitted to a vote of the stockholders of
the Corporation. If the Corporation shall at any time after the Rights Dividend
Declaration Date (i) declare any dividend on Common Stock payable in shares of
Common Stock, (ii) subdivide the outstanding Common Stock, or (iii) combine the
outstanding Common Stock into a smaller number of shares, then in each such case
the number of votes per share to which holders of shares of Series C Preferred
Stock were entitled immediately before such event shall be adjusted by
multiplying such number by a fraction the numerator of which is the number of
shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately after such event and the
denominator of which is the number of shares of Common Stock that were
outstanding immediately before such event.

                  (B)      Except as otherwise provided herein or by law, the
holders of shares of Series C Preferred Stock and the holders of shares of
Common Stock shall vote together as one class on all matters submitted to a vote
of stockholders of the Corporation.

                  (C)      (i)      If at any time dividends on any Series C
Preferred Stock shall be in arrears in an amount equal to six quarterly
dividends thereon, the occurrence of such contingency shall mark the beginning
of a period (herein called a "default period"), which shall extend until such
time when all accrued and unpaid dividends for all previous quarterly dividend
periods and for the current quarterly dividend period on all shares of Series C
Preferred Stock then outstanding shall have been declared and paid or set apart
for payment. During each default period, all holders of Preferred Stock
(including holders of the Series C Preferred Stock) with dividends in arrears in
an amount equal to six quarterly dividends thereon, voting as a class,
irrespective of series, shall have the right to elect two Directors.

                           (ii)     During any default period, such voting right
of the holders of Series C Preferred Stock may be exercised initially at a
special meeting called pursuant to subparagraph (iii) of this Section 3(C) or at
any annual meeting of stockholders, and thereafter at annual meetings of
stockholders, provided that neither such voting right nor the right of the
holders of any other series of Preferred Stock, if any, to increase, in certain
cases, the authorized number of Directors shall be exercised unless the holders
of ten percent in number of shares of Preferred Stock outstanding shall be
present in person or by proxy. The absence of a quorum of the holders of Common
Stock shall not affect the exercise by the holders of Preferred Stock of such
voting right. At any meeting at which the holders of Preferred Stock shall
exercise such voting right initially during an existing default period, they
shall have the right, voting as a class, to elect Directors to fill such
vacancies, if any, in the Board of Directors as may then exist up to two
Directors or, if such right is exercised at an annual meeting, to elect two
Directors. If the number that may be so elected at any special meeting does not
amount to the required number, the holders of the Preferred Stock shall have the
right to make such increase in the number of

                                       40
<PAGE>   43

Directors as shall be necessary to permit the election by them of the required
number. After the holders of the Preferred Stock shall have exercised their
right to elect Directors in any default period and during the continuance of
such period, the number of Directors shall not be increased or decreased except
by vote of the holders of Preferred Stock as herein provided or pursuant to the
rights of any equity securities ranking senior to or pari passu with the Series
C Preferred Stock.

                           (iii)    Unless the holders of Preferred Stock shall,
during an existing default period, have previously exercised their right to
elect Directors, the Board of Directors may order, or any stockholder or
stockholders owning in the aggregate not less than ten percent of the total
number of shares of Preferred Stock outstanding, irrespective of series, may
request, the calling of a special meeting of the holders of Preferred Stock,
which meeting shall thereupon be called by the Chief Executive Officer,
President, Chief Operating Officer, a Vice-President, or the Secretary of the
Corporation. Notice of such meeting and of any annual meeting at which holders
of Preferred Stock are entitled to vote pursuant to this Paragraph (C)(iii)
shall be given to each holder of record of Preferred Stock by mailing a copy of
such notice to such holder at such holder's last address as the same appears on
the books of the Corporation. Such meeting shall be called for a time not
earlier than 20 days and not later than 60 days after such order or request, or
in default of the calling of such meeting within 60 days after such order or
request, such meeting may be called on similar notice by any stockholder or
stockholders owning in the aggregate not less than ten percent of the total
number of shares of Preferred Stock outstanding. Notwithstanding the provisions
of this paragraph (C)(iii), no such special meeting shall be called during the
period within 60 days immediately preceding the date fixed for the next annual
meeting of the stockholders.

                           (iv)     In any default period, the holders of Common
Stock, and other classes of stock of the Corporation if applicable, shall
continue to be entitled to elect the whole number of Directors until the holders
of Preferred Stock shall have exercised their right to elect two Directors
voting as a class, after the exercise of which right (x) the Directors so
elected by the holders of Preferred Stock shall continue in office until their
successors shall have been elected by such holders or until the expiration of
the default period, and (y) any vacancy in the Board of Directors may (except as
provided in paragraph (C)(ii) of this Section 3) be filled by vote of a majority
of the remaining Directors theretofore elected by the holders of the class of
stock which elected the Director whose office shall have become vacant.
References in this paragraph (C) to Directors elected by the holders of a
particular class of stock shall include Directors elected by such Directors to
fill vacancies as provided in clause (y) of the foregoing sentence.

                           (v)      Immediately upon the expiration of a default
period, (x) the right of the holders of Preferred Stock as a class to elect
Directors shall cease, (y) the term of any Directors elected by the holders of
Preferred Stock as a class shall terminate, and (z) the number of Directors
shall be such number as may be provided for in the Certificate of Incorporation
or By-laws of the Corporation irrespective of any increase made pursuant to the
provisions of paragraph (C)(ii) of this Section 3 (such number being subject,
however, to change thereafter in any manner provided by law or in the
Certificate of

                                       41
<PAGE>   44

Incorporation or By-laws of the Corporation). Any vacancies in the Board of
Directors effected by the provisions of clauses (y) and (z) in the preceding
sentence may be filled by a majority of the remaining Directors.

         (D)      Except as set forth herein, holders of Series C Preferred
Stock shall have no special voting rights and their consent shall not be
required (except to the extent they are entitled to vote with holders of Common
Stock as set forth herein) for taking any corporate action.

Section 4.        Certain Restrictions.

         (A)      Whenever quarterly dividends or other dividends or
distributions payable on the Series C Preferred Stock as provided in Section 2
hereof are in arrears, thereafter and until all accrued and unpaid dividends and
distributions, whether or not declared, on shares of Series C Preferred Stock
outstanding shall have been paid in full, the Corporation shall not:

                           (i)      declare or pay dividends on, make any other
distributions on, or redeem or purchase or otherwise acquire for consideration
any shares of stock ranking junior (either as to dividends or upon liquidation,
dissolution, or winding up) to the Series C Preferred Stock;

                           (ii)     declare or pay dividends on or make any
other distributions on any shares of stock ranking on a parity (either as to
dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up) with the Series C
Preferred Stock, except dividends paid ratably on the Series C Preferred Stock
and all such parity stock on which dividends are payable or in arrears in
proportion to the total amounts to which the holders of all such shares are then
entitled;

                           (iii)    redeem or purchase or otherwise acquire for
consideration shares of any stock ranking on a parity (either as to dividends or
upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up) with the Series C Preferred Stock,
provided that the Corporation may at any time redeem, purchase, or otherwise
acquire shares of any such parity stock in exchange for shares of any stock of
the Corporation ranking junior (either as to dividends or upon dissolution,
liquidation, or winding up) to the Series C Preferred Stock; or

                           (iv)     purchase or otherwise acquire for
consideration any shares of Series C Preferred Stock, or any shares of stock
ranking on a parity (either as to dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution, or
winding up) with the Series C Preferred Stock, except in accordance with a
purchase offer made in writing or by publication (as determined by the Board of
Directors) to all holders of such shares upon such terms as the Board of
Directors, after consideration of the respective annual dividend rates and other
relative rights and preferences of the respective series and classes, shall
determine in good faith will result in fair and equitable treatment among the
respective series or classes.

                                       42
<PAGE>   45

         (B)      The Corporation shall not permit any subsidiary of the
Corporation to purchase or otherwise acquire for consideration any shares of
stock of the Corporation unless the Corporation could, under paragraph (A) of
this Section 4, purchase or otherwise acquire such shares at such time and in
such manner.

Section 5.       Reacquired Shares. Any shares of Series C Preferred Stock
purchased or otherwise acquired by the Corporation in any manner whatsoever
shall be retired and canceled promptly after the acquisition thereof. All such
shares shall upon their cancellation become authorized but unissued shares of
Preferred Stock and may be reissued as part of a new series of Preferred Stock
to be created by resolution or resolutions of the Board of Directors, subject to
the conditions and restrictions on issuance set forth herein.

Section 6.        Liquidation, Dissolution, or Winding Up.

         (A)      Upon any liquidation (voluntary or otherwise), dissolution, or
winding up of the Corporation, no distribution shall be made to the holders of
shares of stock ranking junior (either as to dividends or upon liquidation,
dissolution, or winding up) to the Series C Preferred Stock unless, prior
thereto, the holders of shares of Series C Preferred Stock shall have received
per share an amount equal to the greater of 100 times $60.00 or 100 times the
payment made per share of Common Stock, plus an amount equal to accrued and
unpaid dividends and distributions thereon, whether or not declared, to the date
of such payment (the "Series C Liquidation Preference"). Following the payment
of the full amount of the Series C Liquidation Preference, no additional
distributions shall be made to the holders of shares of Series C Preferred Stock
unless, prior thereto, the holders of shares of Common Stock shall have received
an amount per share (the "Common Adjustment") equal to the quotient obtained by
dividing (i) the Series C Liquidation Preference by (ii) 100 (as appropriately
adjusted as set forth in subparagraph (C) below to reflect such events as stock
splits, stock dividends, and recapitalizations with respect to the Common Stock)
(such number in clause (ii), the "Adjustment Number"). Following the payment of
the full amount of the Series C Liquidation Preference and the Common Adjustment
in respect of all outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock and Common
Stock, respectively, holders of Series C Preferred Stock and holders of shares
of Common Stock shall receive their ratable and proportionate share of the
remaining assets to be distributed in the ratio of the Adjustment Number to 1
with respect to such Preferred Stock and Common Stock, on a per share basis,
respectively.

         (B)      In the event, however, that there are not sufficient assets
available to permit payment in full of the Series C Liquidation Preference and
the liquidation preferences of all other series of Preferred Stock, if any,
which rank on a parity (either as to dividends or upon liquidation, dissolution
or winding up) with the Series C Preferred Stock, then such remaining assets
shall be distributed ratably to the holders of such parity shares in proportion
to their respective liquidation preferences. In the event, however, that there
are not sufficient assets available to permit payment in full of the Common
Adjustment, then such remaining assets shall be distributed ratably to the
holders of Common Stock.

                                       43
<PAGE>   46

         (C)      In the event the Corporation shall at any time after the
Rights Dividend Declaration Date (i) declare any dividend on Common Stock
payable in shares of Common Stock, (ii) subdivide the outstanding Common Stock,
or (iii) combine the outstanding Common Stock into a smaller number of shares,
then in each such case the Adjustment Number in effect immediately prior to such
event shall be adjusted by multiplying such Adjustment Number by a fraction the
numerator of which is the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding
immediately after such event and the denominator of which is the number of
shares of Common Stock that were outstanding immediately prior to such event.

Section 7.        Consolidation, Merger, etc. In case the Corporation shall
enter into any consolidation, merger, combination, or other transaction in which
the shares of Common Stock are exchanged for or changed into other stock or
securities, cash and/or any other property, then in any such case the shares of
Series C Preferred Stock shall at the same time be similarly exchanged or
changed in an amount per share (subject to the provision for adjustment
hereinafter set forth) equal to 100 times the aggregate amount of stock,
securities, cash or any other property (payable in kind), as the case may be,
into which or for which each share of Common Stock is changed or exchanged. If
the Corporation shall at any time after the Rights Dividend Declaration Date (i)
declare any dividend on Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock, (ii)
subdivide the outstanding Common Stock, or (iii) combine the outstanding Common
Stock into a smaller number of shares, then in each such case the amount set
forth in the preceding sentence with respect to the exchange or change of shares
of Series C Preferred Stock shall be adjusted by multiplying such amount by a
fraction the numerator of which is the number of shares of Common Stock
outstanding immediately after such event and the denominator of which is the
number of shares of Common Stock that were outstanding immediately before such
event.

Section 8.        Redemption. The shares of Series C Preferred Stock shall not
be redeemable.

Section 9.        Amendment. The Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation
shall not be further amended in any manner that would materially alter or change
the powers, preferences, or special rights of the Series C Preferred Stock so as
to affect them adversely without the affirmative vote of the holders of a
majority or more of the outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock, voting
separately as a class.

Section 10.       Fractional Shares. Series C Preferred Stock may be issued in
fractions of a share which shall entitle the holder, in proportion to such
holder's fractional shares, to exercise voting rights, receive dividends,
participate in distributions and to have the benefit of all other rights of
holders of Series C Preferred Stock.

Section 11.       Ranking. The Series C Preferred Stock shall rank junior to all
other series of the Corporation's Preferred Stock as to the payment of dividends
and the distribution of assets, unless the terms of any such series shall
provide otherwise.

                                       44
<PAGE>   47

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have executed and subscribed this Certificate
and do affirm the foregoing as true under the penalties of perjury this 22nd day
of December, 2000.

                                              PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC.

                                              By:
                                                  ------------------------------

                                              Name:
                                                    ----------------------------

                                              Title:
                                                     ---------------------------

                                       45
<PAGE>   48

                                    Exhibit B

                                    ---------

                          [Form of Rights Certificate]

Certificate No. R-______________________             _________ Rights

NOT EXERCISABLE AFTER JANUARY 12, 2011 OR EARLIER IF REDEMPTION OR EXCHANGE
OCCURS. THE RIGHTS ARE SUBJECT TO REDEMPTION, AT THE OPTION OF THE COMPANY, AT
$.001 PER RIGHT ON THE TERMS SET FORTH IN THE RIGHTS AGREEMENT. UNDER CERTAIN
CIRCUMSTANCES, RIGHTS BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY AN ACQUIRING PERSON (AS SUCH TERM IS
DEFINED IN THE RIGHTS AGREEMENT) AND ANY SUBSEQUENT HOLDER OF SUCH RIGHTS MAY
BECOME NULL AND VOID. [THE RIGHTS REPRESENTED BY THIS RIGHTS CERTIFICATE ARE OR
WERE BENEFICIALLY OWNED BY A PERSON WHO WAS OR BECAME AN ACQUIRING PERSON OR AN
AFFILIATE OR ASSOCIATE OF AN ACQUIRING PERSON (AS SUCH TERMS ARE DEFINED IN THE
RIGHTS AGREEMENT). ACCORDINGLY, THIS RIGHTS CERTIFICATE AND THE RIGHTS
REPRESENTED HEREBY MAY BECOME NULL AND VOID IN THE CIRCUMSTANCES SPECIFIED IN
SECTION 7(e) OF SUCH AGREEMENT.]*

                  Rights Certificate

                  PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC.

         This certifies that _______________________________________________, or
registered assigns, is the registered owner of the number of Rights set forth
above, each of which entitles the owner thereof, subject to the terms,
provisions, and conditions of the Rights Agreement, dated as of December 22,
2000 (the "Rights Agreement"), between PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC., a Delaware
corporation (the "Company"), and First Union National Bank, a national banking
association (the "Rights Agent"), to purchase from the Company at any time
before 5:00 p.m., eastern time, on January 12, 2001 at the office of the Rights
Agent designated for such purpose, or its successors as Rights Agent, one
one-hundredth of a fully paid, non-assessable share of Series C Preferred Stock
(the "Preferred Stock"), of the Company, at a purchase price of $60.00 per one
one-hundredth of a share (the "Purchase Price"), upon presentation and surrender
of this Rights Certificate with the Form of Election to Purchase and related
Certificate duly executed. The number of Rights evidenced by this Rights
Certificate (and the number of shares that may be purchased upon exercise
thereof) set forth above, and the Purchase Price per share set forth above, are
the number and Purchase Price as of _______________, 2000, based on the
Preferred Stock as constituted at such date. Capitalized terms not defined in
this Rights Certificate shall have the meaning set forth in the Rights
Agreement.

         As provided in the Rights Agreement, the Purchase Price and the number
of shares of Preferred Stock that may be purchased upon the exercise of the
Rights

                                       46
<PAGE>   49

represented by this Rights Certificate are subject to modification and
adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events.

---------------------------
* The portion of the legend in brackets shall be inserted only if applicable,
shall be modified to apply to an Acquiring Person, as applicable, and shall
replace the preceding sentence.

         This Rights Certificate is subject to all provisions of the Rights
Agreement, which provisions are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part
of this Rights Certificate and to which Rights Agreement reference is hereby
made for a full description of the rights, limitations of rights, obligations,
duties, and immunities under this Rights Certificate of the Rights Agent, the
Company, and the holders of the Rights Certificates, which limitations of rights
include the temporary suspension of the exercisability of such Rights under the
circumstances described in the Rights Agreement. Copies of the Rights Agreement
are on file at the above-mentioned office of the Rights Agent and are also
available upon written request to the Rights Agent.

         This Rights Certificate, with or without other Rights Certificates,
upon surrender at the office of the Rights Agent designated for such purpose,
may be exchanged for another Rights Certificate or Rights Certificates of like
tenor and date evidencing Rights entitling the holder to purchase a like
aggregate number of shares of Common Stock as the Rights evidenced by the Rights
Certificate or Rights Certificates surrendered shall have entitled such holder
to purchase. If this Rights Certificate is exercised in part, the holder shall
be entitled to receive upon surrender of this Rights Certificate another Rights
Certificate or Rights Certificates for the number of whole Rights not exercised.

         Subject to the provisions of the Rights Agreement, the Rights evidenced
by this Certificate may be redeemed by the Company at its option at a redemption
price of $.001 per Right payable in cash, common stock, or other consideration
at any time before the earlier of the Close of Business on (i) the tenth day
following the Stock Acquisition Date (as such period may be extended pursuant to
the Rights Agreement), and (ii) the Final Expiration Date.

         No fractional shares of Preferred Stock will be issued upon the
exercise of any Right or Rights evidenced by this Rights Certificate (other than
fractions that are integral multiples of one one-hundredth of a share of
Preferred Stock, which may, at the election of the Company, be evidenced by
depositary receipts), but in lieu thereof, the Company will make a cash payment
as provided in the Rights Agreement.

         No holder of this Rights Certificate, as such, shall be entitled to
vote or receive dividends or be deemed for any purpose the holder of shares of
Preferred Stock or of any other securities of the Company that may at any time
be issuable on the exercise of this Rights Certificate, nor shall anything
contained in the Rights Agreement or in this Rights Certificate be construed to
confer upon the holder hereof, as such, any of the rights of a

                                       47
<PAGE>   50

stockholder of the Company or any right to vote for the election of directors or
upon any matter submitted to stockholders at any meeting thereof, or to give or
withhold consent to any corporate action, or to receive notice of meetings or
other actions affecting stockholders (except as provided in the Rights
Agreement), or to receive dividends or subscription rights, or otherwise, until
the Right or Rights represented by this Rights Certificate shall have been
exercised as provided in the Rights Agreement.

         This Rights Certificate shall not be valid or obligatory for any
purpose until it shall have been countersigned by the Rights Agent.

         IN WITNESS WHEREOF the facsimile signature of the proper officers of
the Company.

Dated as of ______________, ____

[SEAL]

ATTEST:                                     PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC.

_________________________                   By:_________________________________
Secretary
                                            Title:______________________________

Countersigned:

_________________________,
as Rights Agent

By:_______________________
    Authorized Signature

                  [Form of Reverse Side of Rights Certificate]

                                       48
<PAGE>   51

                               FORM OF ASSIGNMENT

                               ------------------

                (To be executed by the registered holder if such
               holder desires to transfer the Rights Certificate.)

         FOR VALUE RECEIVED ___________________________________________ hereby
sells, assigns, and transfers unto (Please print name and address of transferee)

________________________________________________________________________________

this Rights Certificate, together with all right, title, and interest therein,
and does hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint _______________ Attorney, to
transfer the within Rights Certificate on the books of the within-named Company,
with full power of substitution.

Dated: ___________________, ____

                                                     ___________________________
                                                               Signature

Signature Guaranteed:

                    Certificate
                    ___________

The undersigned hereby certifies by checking the appropriate boxes that:

         (1)      this Rights Certificate [ ] is [ ] is not being sold,
assigned, and transferred by or on behalf of a Person who is or was an Acquiring
Person, or an Affiliate or Associate of any such Acquiring Person (as such terms
are defined pursuant to the Rights Agreement);

         (2)      after due inquiry and to the best knowledge of the
undersigned, it did did not acquire the Rights evidenced by this Rights
Certificate from any Person who is, was, or subsequently became an Acquiring
Person or an Affiliate or Associate of an Acquiring Person.

Dated: _________________, ____                       ___________________________
                                                               Signature

Signature Guaranteed:

                      NOTICE
                      ______

                                       49
<PAGE>   52

         The signature to the foregoing Assignment and Certificate must
correspond to the name as written upon the face of this Rights Certificate in
every particular, without alteration or enlargement or any change whatsoever.

                                       50
<PAGE>   53

                          FORM OF ELECTION TO PURCHASE

                          ----------------------------

              (To be executed if holder desires to exercise Rights
                     represented by the Rights Certificate.)

To:      PINNACLE HOLDINGS INC.

         The undersigned hereby irrevocably elects to exercise ___________
Rights represented by this Rights Certificate to purchase the shares of
Preferred Stock (or Common Stock or such other securities of the Company or any
other Person) issuable upon the exercise of the Rights and requests that
certificates for such shares be issued in the name of and delivered to:

Please insert social security or other identifying number ______________________

________________________________________________________________________________
                         (Please print name and address)

________________________________________________________________________________

         If such number of Rights shall not be all the Rights represented by
this Rights Certificate, a new Rights Certificate for the balance of such Rights
shall be registered in the name of and delivered to:

             Form of Reverse Side of Rights Certificate - continued

                                       51
<PAGE>   54

Please insert social security or other identifying number ______________________

________________________________________________________________________________
                         (Please print name and address)

________________________________________________________________________________

Dated: ____________________ , ____

                                                     ___________________________
                                                               Signature

Signature Guaranteed:

                   Certificate
                   ___________

         The undersigned hereby certifies by checking the appropriate boxes
that:

         (1)      the Rights represented by this Rights Certificate [ ] are [ ]
are not being exercised by or on behalf of a Person who is or was an Acquiring
Person or an Affiliate or Associate of any such Acquiring Person (as such terms
are defined pursuant to the Rights Agreement);

         (2)      after due inquiry and to the best knowledge of the
undersigned, it [ ] did [ ] did not acquire the Rights evidenced by this Rights
Certificate from any Person who is, was or became an Acquiring Person or an
Affiliate or Associate of an Acquiring Person.

Dated: _________________, ____                       ___________________________
                                                               Signature

Signature Guaranteed:

                     NOTICE
                     ______

         The signature to the foregoing Election to Purchase and Certificate
must correspond to the name as written upon the face of this Rights Certificate
in every particular, without alteration or enlargement or any change whatsoever.

                                       52
<PAGE>   55

                                    EXHIBIT C

                          SUMMARY OF RIGHTS TO PURCHASE
                                 PREFERRED STOCK

         On December 22, 2000, the Board of Directors of Pinnacle Holdings, Inc.
(the "Company") declared a dividend distribution of one preferred stock purchase
right (a "Right") for every outstanding share of common stock, par value $.001
per share (the "Common Stock"), of the Company to stockholders of record at the
close of business on January 12, 2001. The description and terms of the Rights
are set forth in a Rights Agreement (the "Rights Agreement") between the Company
and First Union National Bank, a national banking institution, as Rights Agent.

1.       Common Stock Certificates Representing Rights

         Until the Distribution Date (as defined in Section 2 below), (a) the
Rights shall not be exercisable, (b) the Rights shall be attached to and trade
only together with the Common Stock, and (c) the stock certificates representing
the Common Stock shall also represent the Rights attached to such Common Stock.
Common Stock certificates issued after the Record Date and before the
Distribution Date shall contain a notation incorporating the Rights Agreement by
reference.

         After the Distribution Date, the Rights shall separate from the Common
Stock, Rights certificates shall be issued, and the Rights shall become
exercisable to purchase preferred stock as described in Section 5 below.

2.       Distribution Date

         The "Distribution Date" is the earliest of (i) the tenth day following
the date of the first public announcement that any person (other than the
Company or certain related entities, and with certain additional exceptions) has
become the beneficial owner of 15% or more of the then outstanding Common Stock
other than as the result of a Qualifying Offer (as defined in (b) below) (such
person is an "Acquiring Person" and the date of such public announcement is the
"Stock Acquisition Date") or (ii) the close of business on the tenth business
day (or such later day as shall be designated by the Board of Directors)
following the date of the commencement of, or the announcement of an intention
to make, a tender offer or exchange offer, the consummation of which would cause
any person (other than the Company and certain related entities and with certain
additional exceptions) to become an Acquiring Person. In calculating the
percentage of shares of outstanding Common Stock that are beneficially owned by
any person, such person shall be deemed to beneficially own any shares of Common
Stock issuable upon the exercise, exchange, or conversion of any options,
warrants, or other securities beneficially owned by certain affiliates and
associates of such person. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any person shall
become the beneficial owner of at least 15% of the outstanding Common Stock by
reason of purchases of Common Stock by the Company, then such person shall not
be deemed an "Acquiring Person" until such person thereafter acquires beneficial
ownership of, in the aggregate, a number of additional shares of Common Stock
equal to 1% or more of the then outstanding Common Stock.

3.       Issuance of Rights Certificates

         As soon as practicable following the Distribution Date, separate
certificates representing only Rights shall be mailed to the holders of record
of shares of Common Stock as of the close of business on the Distribution Date,
and such separate Rights certificates alone shall represent such Rights from and
after the Distribution Date.

                                       53
<PAGE>   56

4.       Expiration of Rights

         The Rights are not exercisable until the Distribution Date and will
expire at the close of business on January 12, 2011 unless earlier redeemed by
the Company as described below.

5.       Exercise of Rights

         Unless the Rights have expired or been redeemed or exchanged, they may
be exercised, at the option of the holders, pursuant to paragraphs (a), (b), or
(c) below. No Right may be exercised more than once or pursuant to more than one
of such paragraphs. From and after the first event of the type described in
paragraphs (b) or (c) below, each Right that is beneficially owned by an
Acquiring Person or an affiliate or associate thereof shall be void.

         (a)      Right to Purchase Preferred Shares. From and after the close
of business on the Distribution Date, each Right (other than a Right that has
become void) shall be exercisable to purchase one one-hundredth of a share of
Series C Preferred Stock, par value $.001 per share, of the Company (the
"Preferred Shares"), at an exercise price of $60.00 (the "Purchase Price"). The
Preferred Shares are nonredeemable and, unless otherwise provided in connection
with the creation of a subsequent series of preferred stock, are subordinate to
any other series of the Company's preferred stock whether issued before or after
the issuance of the Preferred Shares. The Preferred Shares may not be issued
except upon exercise of Rights. The holder of a Preferred Share is entitled to
receive when, as, and if declared, the greater of (i) cash and non-cash
dividends in an amount equal to 100 times the dividends declared on each share
of Common Stock or (ii) a preferential annual dividend of $100.00 per Preferred
Share ($1.00 per one one-hundredth of a Preferred Share). In the event of
liquidation, the holder of Preferred Shares shall be entitled to receive a
liquidation payment in an amount equal to the greater of (1) $6,000.00 per
Preferred Share $60.00 per one one-hundredth of a Preferred Share), plus all
accrued and unpaid dividends and distributions on the Preferred Shares or (2) an
amount equal to 100 times the aggregate amount to be distributed per share of
Common Stock. Each Preferred Share has 100 votes, voting together with the
shares of Common Stock. In the event of any merger, consolidation, or other
transaction in which shares of Common Stock are exchanged, the holder of a
Preferred Share shall be entitled to receive 100 times the amount received per
share of Common Stock. The rights of the Preferred Shares as to dividends,
voting, and liquidation preferences are protected by antidilution provisions. It
is anticipated that the value of one one-hundredth of a Preferred Share should
approximate the value of one share of Common Stock.

         (b)      Right to Purchase Shares of Common Stock of the Company. If
any person, alone or together with its affiliates or associates, shall become an
Acquiring Person (subject to certain exceptions), each Right (other than a Right
that has become void) shall be exercisable to purchase, at the Purchase Price
(initially $60.00), shares of Common Stock with a market value equal to two
times the Purchase Price. The Company may at its option or, if the Company does
not have sufficient shares of Common Stock available for all Rights to be
exercised, the Company shall substitute for all or any portion of the shares of
Common Stock that would otherwise be issuable upon the exercise of the Rights,
cash, assets, or other securities having the same aggregate value as such shares
of Common Stock.

         (c)      Right to Purchase Common Stock of a Successor Corporation. If,
after a person has become an Acquiring Person, (i) the Company is acquired in a
merger or other business combination in which the Company is not the surviving
corporation, (ii) the Company is the surviving corporation in a merger or other
business combination in which all or part of the outstanding shares of Common
Stock are changed into or exchanged for stock or assets of another person, or
(iii) 50% or more of the Company's consolidated assets or earning power are
sold, then each Right (other than a Right that has become void) shall thereafter
be exercisable to purchase, at the Purchase Price (initially $60.00), shares of
Common Stock or cash of the surviving corporation or purchaser, respectively,
with an aggregate market value equal to two times the Purchase Price.

                                       54
<PAGE>   57

6.       Adjustments to Prevent Dilution

         The Purchase Price payable, and the number of Preferred Shares or
shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of the Rights are subject to
adjustment from time to time as set forth in the Rights Agreement to prevent
dilution. With certain exceptions, no adjustment in the Purchase Price will be
required until cumulative adjustments amount to at least one percent of the
Purchase Price.

7.       Cash Paid Instead of Issuing Fractional Securities

         No fractional securities shall be issued upon exercise of a Right
(other than fractions of Preferred Shares that are integral multiples of one
one-hundredth of a Preferred Share, which fractions may, at the election of the
Company, be evidenced by depositary receipts) and in lieu thereof, an adjustment
in cash shall be made based on the market price of such securities on the last
trading date before the date of exercise.

8.       Exchange

         At any time after any Person becomes an Acquiring Person and before the
acquisition by such Person of 50% or more of the outstanding shares of Common
Stock, the Board of Directors of the Company may exchange the Rights (other than
Rights owned by such person or group that will have become void), in whole or in
part, at an exchange ratio of one share of Common Stock per Right (subject to
adjustment).

9.       No Stockholder Rights Before Exercise

         Until a Right is exercised, the holder thereof, as such, will have no
rights as a stockholder of the Company, including, without limitation, the right
to vote or to receive dividends. While the distribution of the Rights will not
be taxable to stockholders or to the Company, stockholders may, depending upon
the circumstances, recognize taxable income if the Rights become exercisable for
Common Stock (or other consideration) of the Company or for common stock of an
acquiring company as set forth above.

10.      Amendment of Rights Agreement

         Any of the provisions of the Rights Agreement may be amended by the
Board of Directors of the Company before the Distribution Date. After the
Distribution Date, the provisions of the Rights Agreement may be amended by the
Board to cure any ambiguity, to make changes that do not adversely affect the
interests of holders of Rights (excluding the interests of any Acquiring Person
), or to shorten or lengthen any time period under the Rights Agreement;
however, no amendment to adjust the time period governing redemption shall be
made at such time as the Rights are not redeemable.

         A copy of the Rights Agreement has been filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission as an Exhibit to a Registration Statement on Form 8-K dated
December 22, 2000. This summary description of the Rights does not purport to be
complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the Rights Agreement,
which is incorporated herein by reference.

                                       55

Source: [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00019-of-00352.parquet"}, [{"source": "alea-institute/alea-institute/kl3m-data-edgar-agreements/train-00019-of-00352.parquet"}]]