1.5.1-JA Urgent and Compelling_PBM_Redacted.pdf

This document is a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (J&A) for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). ICE requires immediate Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) support for the ICE Health Service Corps (IHSC) to manage prescription medications for illegal aliens in custody. The VA's Financial Services Center (VAFSC) historically provided this support but abruptly terminated the service level agreement on October 3, 2025, creating an emergency that compromises ICE's ability to provide critical medical care.

Ardent Group, LLC will provide a 12-month letter contract to restore PBM services, with an estimated total cost that is redacted. The contract aims to ensure continuous prescription medication management for over 500 Custody and Border Patrol (CBP) locations and over 200 Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) sites. ICE plans to use this period to develop a strategic vision, increase resources, and compete for a new PBM requirement, with six months allocated for program management strategy and three months for medical claims transition.