(a) To facilitate the procurement of medical equipment pursuant to section 8157 of this title, the Secretary may enter into escrow agreements with institutions described in section 8153(a) of this title. Any such agreement shall provide that—
(1)
the institutions shall pay to the Secretary the funds necessary to make a payment under section 8157(b)(4) of this title;
(b) As escrow agent for funds placed in escrow pursuant to an agreement under subsection (a), the Secretary may—