Section 1405 - Freedom of choice and nondiscrimination(a) A recipient of medical assistance benefits shall, in all cases, have the freedom to obtain medical services from whichever participating provider or providers he so chooses; however, the participating provider so chosen is free to accept or reject the recipient as a patient.(b) Once a provider has elected to participate in the medical assistance program and has signed an agreement with the department, such providers shall not refuse to render services to any recipient on the basis of sex, race, creed, color, national origin or handicap.1967, June 13, P.L. 31, No. 21, art. 14, § 1405, added 1980, July 20, P.L. 493, No. 105, § 3, effective in 60 days.