10-01 RFP 745-26-P21 April 26.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

210.562.6200 | https://uthscsa.edu | https://wp.uthscsa.edu/purchasing/

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

OGC Template 0525

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

by

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio for

Selection of a Vendor to Provide

Peer Support Services

RFP No. 745-26-P21

Submittal Deadline:

3:00 PM – Central Prevailing Time –

Monday, June 15, 2026

Issued: 8:00 A.M. – Central Prevailing Time – Thursday, April 30, 2026 https://uthscsa.edu/ https://wp.uthscsa.edu/purchasing/

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

SECTION 2: NOTICE TO PROPOSER

SECTION 3: SUBMISSION OF PROPOSAL

SECTION 4: TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SECTION 5: SPECIFICATIONS AND ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

SECTION 6: PRICING AND DELIVERY SCHEDULE

ATTACHMENTS:

APPENDIX ONE: PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

A01A – Appendix One, Section One – General Information A01B - Appendix One, Section Two – Execution of Offer A01C – Appendix Three, Section Three – General Questionnaire A01D – Appendix Four, Section Four – Addend Checklist

APPENDIX TWO: SAMPLE AGREEMENT

APPENDIX THREE: HUB SUBCONTRACTING PLAN

APPENDIX FOUR: POLICY DRIVEN ADOPTION FOR ACCESSIBILITY

(PDAA) VENDOR ASSESSMENT

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Description of University

UT Health San Antonio, the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio), is the primary driver of San Antonio’s $44.1 billion healthcare and biosciences sector, the city’s largest economic segment. It offers a comprehensive network of inpatient and outpatient care facilities staffed by medical, dental, nursing and allied health professionals who provide more than 2.5 million patient visits each year. As the academic health center of UT San Antonio, it is supported by six health professional schools. UT Health San Antonio plans continued growth over the next five years, adding more health-related jobs for the city and region.

To learn about the many ways “We make lives better®,” visit UTHealthSA.org.

1.2 Background and Special Circumstances

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio — also called UT Health San Antonio (UTHSA) seeks to fund one qualified organization to operate and provide comprehensive support services for PeerHubTX, the statewide hub owned and maintained by UTHSA.

PeerHubTX serves as a centralized platform that supports Peer Specialists and Family Partners across Texas in areas such as training access, supervision resources, career development, and workforce engagement.

The selected vendor will be responsible for day-to-day operational management of PeerHubTX, including customer support services for Peer Specialists, Family Partners, Training Entities, Supervisors, and Employers. The vendor will assist users in navigating certification-related processes, accessing training opportunities, and identifying supervision resources available through the hub.

In coordination with UTHSA, the vendor will administer and allocate vouchers and scholarship funds designated for training and supervision, ensuring transparent processes, accurate tracking, and timely disbursement. Specific administrative procedures and requirements will be determined in consultation with the awarded vendor.

The vendor will support workforce development and expansion efforts by actively promoting employment opportunities for Peer Specialists and Family Partners across Texas. This includes publishing and maintaining up-to-date job postings on the PeerHubTX website, removing outdated listings, and cultivating relationships with employers to facilitate timely access to job openings and workforce needs. UTHSA will retain ownership of the PeerHubTX website, infrastructure, branding, and all associated data. The selected vendor will operate under the direction and oversight of UTHSA to ensure alignment with statewide workforce development goals.

Additionally, the vendor will represent PeerHubTX at relevant conferences, meetings, and stakeholder events to promote awareness of the hub, increase engagement, and strengthen partnerships that advance the peer and family partner workforce in Texas. The selected vendor is expected to attend three (3) to five (5) events annually, and all costs associated with conference participation, including travel, lodging, registration fees, and any related expenses—must be fully included in the vendor’s proposed budget.

https://www.uthscsa.edu/ https://uthscsa.edu/?utm_source=uthealthsaorg&utm_medium=pageredirect&utm_campaign=uthealthsa https://www.uthscsa.edu/ https://centralizedtraining.com/peerhubtx/

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

No Guarantee of Volume. UTHSA does not solicit or guarantee any specific amount of compensation, volume, minimum, or maximum amount of Services under this RFP or any contract or agreement resulting from this RFP.

Multi-Award. UTHSA reserves the right to multi-award this RFP.

1.3 Objective of Request for Proposal

The University is soliciting proposals in response to this Request for Proposal RFP 745-26-P21, from qualified proposers to provide operational guidance services (the “Services”) for Peer Support Services are more defined in Section 5 (Scope of Work) of this RFP.

1.4 Group Purchase Authority

Texas law authorizes institutions of higher education (defined by §61.003, Education Code) to use the group purchasing procurement method (ref. §§51.9335, 73.115, and 74.008, Education Code). Additional Texas institutions of higher education may therefore elect to enter into a contract with the successful Proposer under this RFP. In particular, Proposer should note that University is part of The University of Texas System (UT System), which is comprised of fourteen institutions described at http://www.utsystem.edu/institutions. UT System institutions routinely evaluate whether a contract resulting from a procurement conducted by one of the institutions might be suitable for use by another, and if so, this RFP could give rise to additional purchase volumes. As a result, in submitting its proposal, Proposer should consider proposing a pricing model and other commercial terms that take into account the higher volumes and other expanded opportunities that could result from the eventual inclusion of other institutions in the purchase contemplated by this RFP. Any purchases made by other institutions based on this RFP will be the sole responsibility of those institutions.

1.5 Transition Plan

As a government entity, UTHSA is obligated by statute to re-solicit, or to leverage eligible Group Purchasing Organization contracts, to continue this service upon expiration or termination of this agreement. Awarded Proposer agrees that if the Signed Agreement expires or is terminated for any reason, then, at University’s option, Awarded Proposer will continue to perform the Peer Support Services in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Signed Agreement until University contracts with a new qualified and experienced contractor(s) to perform the Peer Support Services or is able to perform the Peer Support Services in-house; provided, that, Awarded Proposer will not be required to continue performing the Peer Support Services for more than four (4) months after expiration or termination of the Signed Agreement.

Awarded Proposer agrees to cooperate with, and assist, University’s efforts to transition to another contractor(s) or to perform the Peer Support Services in-house.

1.6 Public Information

All information, documentation, and other materials submitted in response to this solicitation are considered non-confidential and/or non-proprietary and are subject to public disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act (Texas Government Code, Chapter 552.001, et seq.) after the solicitation is completed.

http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.61.htm#61.003 http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.51.htm#51.9335 http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.73.htm#73.115 http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/ED/htm/ED.74.htm#74.008 http://www.utsystem.edu/institutions https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/GV/htm/GV.552.htm

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

SECTION 2

NOTICE TO PROPOSER

2.1 Submittal Deadline

University will accept proposals submitted in response to this RFP until 3:00 PM Central Prevailing Time, Monday, June 15, 2026 via our e-Procurement Website Euna (formally Bonfire).

2.1.1 When submitting your proposal – follow the directions in Euna.

1. Each document that is required must be submitted individually, completed, and signed (if applicable). DO NOT UPLOAD ALL FILES TOGETHER

2.1.2 If during your submission, you encounter any technical issues – you must contact Euna Support directly for assistance or by calling 1-844-226-3862

1. After contacting Euna, inform the Strategic Sourcing Specialist that you have reached out to Euna due to technical issues.

2.1.3 Euna offers a Help Forum which you can access by clicking here.

2.2 RFP Contact Information and Questions

2.2.1 Interested parties MUST direct questions (ALL QUESTIONS MUST GO THROUGH Euna) about this RFP through Euna Opportunity Q&A.

Located in the Project Details (see below).

https://uthscsa.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities https://uthscsa.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities mailto:support.bonfire@eunasolutions.com mailto:support.bonfire@eunasolutions.com https://uthscsa.bonfirehub.com/portal/support https://uthscsa.bonfirehub.com/portal/support

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

University instructs interested parties to restrict all contact and questions regarding this RFP to written communications delivered (i) in accordance with this Section on or before 3:00 PM Central Prevailing Time, Wednesday, May 27, 2026 (Question Deadline), or (ii) if questions relate to Historically Underutilized Businesses, in accordance with Section 2.5.

University will provide responses as soon as practicable following the Question Deadline.

University intends to respond to all timely submitted questions. However, University reserves the right to decline to respond to any question.

If submitting multiple questions, submit them in one submission (not multiple submissions).

2.3 Criteria for Selection

The successful Proposer, if any, selected by University through this RFP will be the Proposer that submits a proposal on or before the Submittal Deadline that is the most advantageous to University. Contractor means the successful Proposer under this RFP.

Proposer is encouraged to propose terms and conditions offering the maximum benefit to University in terms of (1) service, (2) total overall cost, and (3) project management expertise.

The evaluation of proposals and the selection of Contractor will be based on the information provided in the proposal. University may consider additional information if University determines the information is relevant.

University reserves the right to award a Contract for all or any portion of the requirements proposed by reason of this request, award multiple Contracts, or to reject any and all proposals if deemed to be in the best interest of the University and to re-solicit for proposals.

Criteria to be considered by University in evaluating proposals and selecting Contractor, will be these factors:

2.3.1 Threshold Criteria Not Scored

A. Ability of University to comply with laws regarding Historically Underutilized Businesses; and

B. Ability of University to comply with laws regarding purchases from persons with disabilities.

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

2.3.2 Scored Criteria

A. Cost of goods and services (20 Points).

B. Reputation of the Proposer and of the Proposer's goods or services (30 Points).

C. Quality of the Proposer's goods or services (20 Points).

D. Extent to which the goods or services meet the University's needs (20 Points).

E. Proposer's past relationship with the University (5 Points).

F. Proposer’s exceptions to the terms and conditions set forth in Section 4 (5 Points).

2.4 Key Events Schedule

Date RFP Issued 8:00 AM Central Prevailing Time, Thursday, April 30, Question Deadline 3:00 PM Central Prevailing Time, Wednesday, May 27, (ref. Section 2.2) 2026

Submittal Deadline 3:00 PM Central Prevailing Time, Monday, June 15, 2026 (ref. Section 2.1)

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

2.5 Historically Underutilized Businesses

2.5.1 All agencies of the State of Texas are required to make a good faith effort to assist historically underutilized businesses (HUBs) in receiving contract awards. The goal of the HUB program is to promote full and equal business opportunity for all businesses in contracting with state agencies. Pursuant to the HUB program, if under the terms of any agreement or contractual arrangement resulting from this RFP, Contractor subcontracts any Work, then Contractor must make a good faith effort to utilize HUBs certified by the Procurement and Support Services Division of the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Proposals that fail to comply with the requirements contained in this Section 2.5 will constitute a material failure to comply with advertised specifications and will be rejected by University as non-responsive. Additionally, compliance with good faith effort guidelines is a condition precedent to awarding any agreement or contractual arrangement resulting from this RFP. Proposer acknowledges that, if selected by University, its obligation to make a good faith effort to utilize HUBs when subcontracting any Work will continue throughout the term of all agreements and contractual arrangements resulting from this RFP. Furthermore, any subcontracting of Work by the Proposer is subject to review by University to ensure compliance with the HUB program.

2.5.2 University has reviewed this RFP in accordance with 34 TAC §20.285, and has determined that subcontracting opportunities are probable under this RFP.

2.5.3 A HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) is a required part of the proposal. The HSP will be developed and administered in accordance with University’s Policy on Utilization of Historically Underutilized Businesses, attached as APPENDIX THREE.

Each Proposer must complete and return the HSP in accordance with the terms and conditions of this RFP, Including APPENDIX THREE. Proposers that fail to submit the HSP will be considered non-responsive to this RFP as required by §2161.252, Government Code.

Questions regarding the HSP may be directed to:

Contact: Rebecca A. Mendez, HUB Program Manager Phone: 210-562-6300 Email: HUBAdmin@uthscsa.edu

OR

Contact: Mary Minier, HUB Specialist Phone: 210-562-6326 Email: HUBAdmin@uthscsa.edu

Contractor will not be permitted to change its HSP unless: (1) Contractor completes a new HSP in accordance with the terms of APPENDIX THREE, setting forth all modifications requested by Contractor, (2) Contractor provides the modified HSP to University, (3) University approves the modified HSP in writing, and (4) all agreements resulting from this RFP are amended in writing to conform to the modified HSP.

https://texas-sos.appianportalsgov.com/rules-and-meetings?$locale=en_US&interface=VIEW_TAC_SUMMARY&queryAsDate=04%2F22%2F2025&recordId=214411 http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/GV/htm/GV.2161.htm#2161.252 http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/GV/htm/GV.2161.htm#2161.252 mailto:HUBAdmin@uthscsa.edu mailto:HUBAdmin@uthscsa.edu

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

2.5.4 At the same time Proposer submits its proposal (no later than the Submittal Deadline (ref.

Section 2.1)), Proposer must submit the following HUB materials (HUB Materials):

(a) One (1) complete electronic copy of Proposer’s HSP through the Euna Procurement Portal.

2.5.5 University may offer Proposer an opportunity to seek informal review of its draft HSP by

University’s HUB Office before the Submittal Deadline. If University extends this offer, details will be provided at the Pre-Proposal Conference (ref. Section 2.6) or by other means. Informal review is designed to help address questions Proposer may have about how to complete its HSP properly. Concurrence or comment on Proposer’s draft HSP by University will not constitute formal approval of the HSP and will not eliminate the need for Proposer to submit its final HSP to University as instructed by Section 2.5.

2.6 Vendor Presentation

University reserves the right to hold Vendor Presentation in person at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (or virtual). The dates and times to be determined after the first round of evaluations. Not all vendors may be invited to participate in these presentations, all dependent on first round of evaluation scores.

https://uthscsa.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

SECTION 3

SUBMISSION OF PROPOSAL

3.1 Submission

Proposals must be received electronically through the University’s online Procurement Portal via Euna, on or before the Submittal Deadline (ref. Section 2.1 of this RFP). Competitive Bids will be listed on the Procurement Portal, and submissions will only be accepted through the portal.

University WILL NOT accept proposals submitted by paper, telephone, facsimile (“FAX”) transmission, or electronic mail (i.e., e-mail) in response to this RFP.

You can register for a free account by clicking here, which will be required when you prepare a submission. As part of the registration process, you may select Commodity Codes to associate with your account. This will open you up for notifications of opportunities matching your chosen codes.

If you encounter technical issues while preparing and/or submitting your proposal – you must contact Euna directly.

3.2 Proposal Validity Period

Each proposal must state that it will remain valid for University’s acceptance for a minimum of two hundred and forty days (240) days after the Submittal Deadline, to allow time for evaluation, selection, and any unforeseen delays

3.3 Terms and Conditions

3.3.1 Proposer must comply with the requirements and specifications contained in this RFP, including the Agreement (ref. APPENDIX TWO), the Notice to Proposer (ref. Section 2), Proposal Requirements (ref. APPENDIX ONE) and the Specifications and Additional Questions (ref.

Section 5). If there is a conflict among the provisions in this RFP, the provision requiring Proposer to supply the better quality or greater quantity of services will prevail, or if such conflict does not involve quality or quantity, then interpretation will be in the following order of precedence:

A. Specifications and Additional Questions (ref. Section 5).

B. Agreement (ref. APPENDIX TWO).

C. Proposal Requirements (ref. APPENDIX ONE).

D. Notice to Proposers (ref. Section 2).

https://uthscsa.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities mailto:support.bonfire@eunasolutions.com

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

3.4 Submittal Checklist

Proposer is instructed to complete, sign, and return the following documents as a part of its proposal. If Proposer fails to return each of the following items with its proposal, then University may reject the proposal:

3.4.1 Signed and Completed Execution of Offer (ref. Section 2 of APPENDIX ONE).

3.4.2 Signed and Completed Pricing and Delivery Schedule (ref. Section 6).

3.4.3 Responses to Proposer's General Questionnaire (ref. Section 3 of APPENDIX ONE).

3.4.4 Signed and Completed Addenda Checklist (ref. Section 4 of APPENDIX ONE).

3.4.5 Signed and completed General Terms and Conditions (ref. Section 4 of APPENDIX

ONE).

3.4.6 Responses to questions and requests for information in the Specifications and Additional

Questions Section (ref. Section 5).

3.4.7 Signed and completed originals of the HUB Subcontracting Plan or other applicable documents (ref. Section 2.5 and APPENDIX THREE).

3.4.8 Completed Policy Driven Adoption for Accessibility (PDAA) Vendor Assessment (ref.

APPENDIX FOUR).

3.4.9 Completed Accessibility Conformance Report (ACR) and/or VPAT (ref. 5.2 MINIMUM

REQUIREMENTS).

3.4.10 Completed Vendor Accessibility Dev Service Infor Request (VADSIR) (ref. 5.2 MINIMUM

REQUIREMENTS).

3.4.11 Completed Bid Table (BT-78KZ).

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

SECTION 4

GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

See Attached in Euna

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

210.562.6200 | www.uthscsa.edu | https://wp.uthscsa.edu/purchasing/

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

5.1 General

Minimum requirements and specifications for Work, as well as certain requests for information to be provided by Proposer as part of its proposal, are set forth below. As indicated in Section 2.3, Contractor means the successful Proposer.

5.2 Minimum Requirements

Each Proposal must include information that clearly indicates that Proposer meets each of the following minimum qualification requirements:

5.2.1 Proposer must hold appropriate occupational licenses or other certifications required for the applicable service(s) being performed.

5.2.2 The Proposer must fully comply with Federal and State laws, County and Municipal ordinances and regulations in any manner affecting the performance of work.

5.2.3 Pursuant to 1 TAC §213.38 (b), UT Health requires documentation providing credible F evidence that the products to be included in this bid are accessible for use by persons with disabilities.

1. A completed self-assessment using the Policy Driven Adoption for Accessibility

(PDAA) (APPENDIX FOUR) maturity model, using the PDAA template provided by the Texas Department of Information Resources.

2. A completed Vendor Accessibility Development Services Information Request (VADSIR), using the VADSIR template provided by the Texas Department of Information Resources.

3. Other documentation of vendor’s capability or ability to produce accessible products and services, which may include:

a. Vendor’s internal accessibility policy documents,

b. Contractual warranties for accessibility,

c. Accessibility Conformance Reports (ACRs), based on the VPAT or

OpenACR formats, for similar products or services previously provided by the vendor,

d. Accessibility testing documentation, and

e. Other examples of prior work results.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu https://texas-sos.appianportalsgov.com/rules-and-meetings?chapter=213&interface=VIEW_TAC&part=10&title=1 https://dir.texas.gov/resource-library-item/policy-driven-adoption-accessibility-pdaa-vendor-assessment-0 https://dir.texas.gov/resource-library-item/policy-driven-adoption-accessibility-pdaa-vendor-assessment-0 https://prod.dir.texas.gov/resource-library-item/vendor-accessibility-dev-services-info-request https://prod.dir.texas.gov/resource-library-item/vendor-accessibility-dev-services-info-request https://www.itic.org/policy/accessibility/vpat https://acreditor.section508.gov/

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

5.3 Additional Questions Specific to this RFP

Proposer must submit the following information as part of Proposer’s proposal:

5.3.1 If Proposer takes exception to any terms or conditions set forth in APPENDIX TWO, Proposer must submit a list of the exceptions. The University WILL NOT consider any modifications to the University’s Standard Terms and Conditions AFTER submittal deadline.

5.3.2 By signing the Execution of Offer (ref. Section 2 of APPENDIX ONE), Proposer agrees to comply with Certificate of Interested Parties laws (ref. §2252.908, Government Code) and 1 TAC §§46.1 through 46.5) as implemented by the Texas Ethics Commission (TEC), including, among other things, providing TEC and University with information required on the form promulgated by TEC. Proposer may learn more about these disclosure requirements, including the applicable exceptions and use of the TEC electronic filing system, by reviewing §2252.908, Government Code, and information on the TEC website at https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/resources/FAQs/FAQ_Form1295.php.

The Certificate of Interested Parties must only be submitted by Contractor upon delivery to University of a signed Agreement.

5.3.3 UTS165 defines “Information Resources” as any and all computer printouts, online display devices, mass storage media, and all computer-related activities involving any device capable of receiving email, browsing Web sites, or otherwise capable of receiving, storing, managing, or transmitting Data including, but not limited to, mainframes, servers, Network Infrastructure, personal computers, notebook computers, hand-held computers, personal digital assistant (PDA), pagers, distributed processing systems, network attached and computer controlled medical and laboratory equipment (i.e. embedded technology), telecommunication resources, network environments, telephones, fax machines, printers and service bureaus. Additionally, it is the procedures, equipment, facilities, software, and Data that are designed, built, operated, and maintained to create, collect, record, process, store, retrieve, display, and transmit information.

5.3.4 UTS165 defines “Data” as recorded data, regardless of form or media in which it may be recorded, which constitute the original data necessary to support the business of UT System or original observations and methods of a study and the analyses of such original data that are necessary to support research activities and validate research findings.

Data includes, but is not limited to printed records, observations and notes; electronic data; video and audio records, photographs and negatives).

5.4 Scope of Work

Contractor will provide the following services to University:

5.4.1 Legislative Authority

A. House Bill (H.B.) 1486, 85th Legislature, Regular Session, 2017, amended

Government Code, Chapter 531, Subchapter B, by adding Section 531.0999 directing the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to define peer services for individuals with mental health or substance use conditions, identify criteria for certification and supervision, and provide Medicaid reimbursement.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu https://wp.uthscsa.edu/purchasing/ http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/GV/htm/GV.2252.htm#2252.908 https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/rules/commission/ch46.php https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/resources/FAQs/FAQ_Form1295.php http://www.utsystem.edu/board-of-regents/policy-library/policies/uts165-information-resources-use-and-security-policy http://www.utsystem.edu/board-of-regents/policy-library/policies/uts165-information-resources-use-and-security-policy https://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/85R/billtext/pdf/HB01486F.pdf https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/85R/billtext/html/HB01486S.htm https://www.hhs.texas.gov/?utm_source=copilot.com

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

5.4.2 Definitions and Links

A. Peer Services: Non-clinical services supporting individuals with mental health and/or substance use challenges, including recovery and wellness support, mentoring, and advocacy.

B. Recovery and Wellness Support: Providing information and assistance with planning for recovery.

C. Mentoring: Serving as a role model and helping individuals access community resources and services.

D. Advocacy: Supporting individuals in stressful or urgent situations and ensuring their rights are respected.

E. Peer Specialist Services: Recovery-oriented, person-centered, relationship-focused, and trauma informed services. (Additional information for Peer Support Services can be found here).

F. Peer Specialist: An individual who uses their lived experience with mental health and/or substance use challenges, combined with formal training, to deliver strengths-based, person-centered services that promote recovery and resiliency.

G. Peer Specialist Supervisor (PSS): An individual with direct supervisory responsibility for Peer Specialists, focusing on service provision, caseload review, skill building, problem resolution, professional growth, and organizational policy compliance.

H. Certified Family Partner (CFP): A parent, primary caregiver, foster parent, family member, or guardian who has completed standardized training to provide family support peer services. They must have a lived experience raising a child with mental, emotional, or behavioral health challenges and at least one year of successfully navigating a child-serving system.

I. Certified Training Entity: An organization approved to provide training for

Certified Mental Health Peer Specialists (MHPS), Recovery Support Peer Specialists (RSPS), and Peer Specialist Supervisors (PSS) per Medicaid rules.

This includes core training, at least one supplemental training type, and supervisor training. All certifications must meet Texas Certification Board requirements (www.tcbap.org).

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu https://www.hhs.texas.gov/providers/behavioral-health-services-providers-programs/peer-support-services http://www.tcbap.org/

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

5.4.3 Evidence Base

Peer support is supported by a strong and growing evidence base and is widely recognized as an important component of recovery-oriented behavioral health systems.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) describes peer services as an evidence-based practice for mental health, substance use, and co-occurring conditions, with benefits that can include stronger engagement in services, improved recovery outcomes, better quality of life and functioning, and, in some settings, reduced hospitalization and lower overall service costs. More recent national guidance also emphasizes the value of peer support across the continuum of care while underscoring the importance of role clarity, voluntary service delivery, and alignment with peer scope of practice.

Texas-specific findings continue to reinforce the importance of strengthening peer workforce infrastructure. The Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health has published updated 2023 reports on peer workforce outcomes, peer specialist supervisors, and use of the peer support Medicaid benefit in Texas, indicating that the state’s peer workforce remains an active area of development and investment. These reports point to the continued relevance of workforce capacity, supervision quality, financing mechanisms, and organizational support in sustaining and expanding peer services statewide.

Taken together, the national and Texas evidence supports continued investment in infrastructure that helps peers enter, navigate, and remain in the workforce. A centralized statewide platform can help reduce barriers to access, improve visibility of training and employment pathways, support consistent communication with peers and employers, and strengthen long-term workforce development. The services sought through this RFP align with that evidence base by supporting coordinated outreach, scholarship and voucher administration, customer support, and workforce promotion activities that help expand and sustain the peer and family partner workforce across Texas.

PeerHubTX is designed to address these infrastructure needs through a centralized, statewide platform that supports training and supervision resources, workforce coordination, and connections to employment opportunities. The services sought through this RFP will strengthen PeerHubTX through customer support, voucher and scholarship administration, outreach, and workforce promotion activities that help expand and sustain the peer and family partner workforce across Texas.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu https://www.samhsa.gov/ https://sites.utexas.edu/mental-health-institute

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

5.4.4 Description of Services

A. The selected vendor will operate PeerHubTX in collaboration with UT Health San

Antonio, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health, peer and Family Partner training entities, certifying bodies, supervisors, employers, and other local, regional, and statewide stakeholders. The vendor will support improved linkage between individuals seeking to become Peer Specialists or Family Partners and available training, supervision, internship, and employment opportunities promoted through the PeerHubTX platform. Training pathways may include core competency training and specialized tracks such as Mental Health, Substance Use, and Family Partner, as recognized by HHSC. Additional certifications may be incorporated as approved by HHSC and UTHSA.

B. The selected vendor will not oversee training or certification entities but will collaborate with them to support individuals navigating training, certification, and employment pathways. The vendor will administer scholarship and voucher processes using structured application, review, and approval procedures and will manage funds designated for training, certification and re-certification, supervision hours, and required background checks. Additional related expenses may be supported with prior written approval from UTHSA.

C. The vendor will provide responsive customer support to PeerHubTX users and will actively cultivate relationships with employers and community partners to strengthen internship and employment pathways. The vendor will manage and maintain current job postings on the PeerHubTX website, including verifying open positions, removing outdated listings, and promoting timely awareness of new workforce opportunities.

D. UTHSA will retain ownership of the PeerHubTX website, infrastructure, and all associated data. The vendor will ensure real-time data entry and reporting to UTHSA and HHSC, including analytics that track user engagement, scholarship and voucher allocation, training and supervision linkage, and workforce placement activity. These data will support strategic planning, performance monitoring, and continuous quality improvement. Suggested data elements are outlined in the Performance Measures section of this RFP, and additional data points may be incorporated as determined by UTHSA and HHSC through ongoing program refinement.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

E. For bidding purposes, a table of actively certified Peer Specialists, Peer Specialist Supervisors, and Family Partners is provided in Table 2 (updated February 2026). Additionally, Table 3 outlines known costs (at time of RFP publication) for training, certification, and other costs of interest.

While the number of peers have increased, people with lived experiences seeking to become certified as Peer Support Specialists encounter barriers throughout the lifecycle of this process, including, but not limited to: accessing and completing applications; accessing available training, supervision, and ongoing performance support; obtaining funding for training, certification, background checks, and supervision; and advocating for employment and career path opportunities that pay competitive wages. These barriers are increasing for potential Peer Support Specialists living in rural areas. At a systemic level, there is no currently established process for coordination among the many training and certification entities. This hampers and complicates the collection of statewide analytics that could aid in providing valuable quality management and process improvement from the initial application for training through employment.

i. Table 2. Number of Active Certified Individuals (February 2026)

Year Number of MHPS Number of RSPS Number of PSS Number of CFP

2026* 1,137 1,045 389 166 (* From 2021 to 2026)

ii. Table 3. Cost Assumption for Certification and Training (Prices listed below are ONLY estimated)

Item Cost Notes

Initial Certification $60

Recertification $60 Required every two (2) years for Mental Health and Substance Use Peer Specialists. Will be required in the future for Certified Family Partners.

Background Check $50 Required at initial certification and recertification.

Supervision/Hour (suggested) $75 Approximately 13 hours per Peer Specialist needed during certification process. (Covers up to $400)

Training Varies Covers up to $125 for core and $500 for supplemental training.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

5.4.5 Performance Measures

A. Completion of Requested Bid Table BT-78KZ must break out cost associated with Task number one (1) through Task number ten (10) listed below:

# Task Date of Frequency

1 Submit project plan. Within thirty (30) days of issuance of PO.

Operate PeerHubTX and provide customer support for Peer Specialist, Family Partners, Training entities, Supervisors, and Employers. Including responding to inquiries submitted through PeerHubTX and associated communication channels.

Ongoing; reviewed and updated at least monthly or within five (5) business days of receiving updates.

Coordinate and maintain access to HHSC recognized training and supervision pathways promoted through PeerHubTX for Peer Specialists, Family Partners, and Peer Specialist Supervisors, including core and supplemental trainings and other HHSC approved trainings as applicable.

Ongoing; reviewed and updated at least monthly or within five (5) business days of receiving updates.

Administer vouchers and scholarships for approved training, certification or re certification, and required background checks, including structured application, review, award documentation, and fund tracking.

Ongoing; applications reviewed at least twice per month;

monthly reconciliation and reporting.

Administer vouchers and scholarships for approved supervision hours required for certification, including verification of supervision needs, payment processes, and tracking.

Ongoing; processed at least twice per month; monthly reconciliation and reporting.

Provide technical assistance to Peer Specialists and Family Partners across key milestones, including training selection, enrollment support, hub navigation, required assessments and surveys, certification status updates, supervision linkage, and employment support.

Ongoing; service activity tracked and summarized monthly.

Maintain and publish statewide Peer Specialist and Family Partner job postings on PeerHubTX, including verification that positions remain open, removal of outdated or filled postings, and proactive outreach to employers to obtain timely job openings.

Ongoing; postings reviewed at least weekly; employer outreach conducted at least monthly.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

# Task Date of Frequency

Partner with local, regional, and statewide organizations to promote post certification employment pathways and strengthen workforce connections, including networking with employers and participation in relevant stakeholder meetings.

Ongoing; Activities summarized quarterly.

The selected vendor is expected to attend three (3) to five (5) events annually.

Maintain real-time analytics and performance data through the UTHSA-owned PeerHubTX dashboard. UTHSA retains full ownership of the dashboard and all associated data. The vendor and authorized stakeholders will have access and will input data on a regular basis for metrics not automatically captured by the CRM. Data maintained includes: training access (completion and enrollment activity); voucher and scholarship utilization; supervision linkage; workforce placement and retention outcomes (employment status, placement counts, and retention at defined intervals); job board activity (postings added, removed, and filled); and customer service timeliness metrics, tracked through the CRM. Formal performance summaries are submitted to UTHSA monthly and quarterly.

UTHSA-owned dashboard maintained in real time;

vendor and authorized users input data on a regular basis (automated where possible, manual entry as needed); formal reports submitted to UTHSA monthly and quarterly.

Track and maintain customer service timeliness and quality metrics through the UTHSA-owned CRM. UTHSA retains full ownership of all data in real time. Where available, metrics are captured automatically by the CRM; data not automatically collected will be entered manually by the vendor on a regular basis. Metrics include: volume of requests received; average first response time; average time to resolution; percentage of requests resolved within established service levels; and user satisfaction ratings. Data are tracked continuously and summarized for UTHSA monthly and reviewed quarterly with

UTHSA.

Tracked continuously via CRM (automated and manual entry as applicable); summarized for UTHSA monthly; reviewed quarterly with UTHSA.

5.4.6 References

Center for Addiction Recovery Support. (2024). Medicaid reimbursement for peer support services: A detailed analysis of rates, processes, and procedures. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Integration Academy.

Health Resources and Services Administration. (2023). Behavioral health workforce 2023 brief. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health. (2021). Peers in Texas: Workforce outcomes. The University of Texas at Austin.

Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health. (2023). Peer workforce outcomes, peer specialist supervisors, and use of the peer support Medicaid benefit in Texas. The University of Texas at Austin.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https:/policycentermmh.org/app/uploads/2024/07/May-2024-Peer-Excellence-Medicaid-Reimbursement-Report.pdf chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https:/bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/Behavioral-Health-Workforce-Brief-2023.pdf https://www.tiemh.org/resources/peers-in-texas-workforce-outcomes-2/ https://www.tiemh.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Peer-Workforce-Survey_FY2023.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

5.5 Group Purchasing Organization (GPO):

If Proposer is part of any GPO, provide the GPO Name, Contract(s) Number, and other pertinent information.

5.6 Add or Delete Services

UTHSA is continuing to grow clinical, research, and educational services, which may require additional service locations or facilities to be added or removed during the term of this agreement.

The agreement that results from this RFP may need to be modified during its term to reflect these locations modifications. Proposer agrees that the University has the right to add or delete services and locations which are available from the Proposer during the effective period of the contract. The University and the Proposer, prior to execution of services, shall mutually agree upon the scope and price, in writing, for any such additional services. In addition, the University has the right to modify, replace, upgrade, or delete services and locations during the effective period of this contract. The University and the Proposer, prior to modification or services shall mutually agree in writing before modifying services. As well as special notice in Section 1.2 Background and Special Circumstances.

file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu

DEPARTMENT OF PURCHASING | HUB PROGRAMS | Mail Code 7962 | 7703 Floyd Curl Drive | San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

SECTION FOUR

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SECTION SIX

PRICING AND DELIVERY SCHEDULE

APPENDIX ONE

SECTION 1 – GENERAL INFORMATION

SECTION 2 – EXECUTION OF OFFER

SECTION 3 – GENERAL QUESTIONNAIRE

SECTION 4 – ADDENDA CHECKLIST

APPENDIX TWO

SAMPLE AGREEMENT

APPENDIX THREE

HUB SUBCONTRACTING PLAN

APPENDIX FOUR

POLICY DRIVEN ADOPTION FOR ACCESSIBILITY (PDAA)

VENDOR ASSESSMENT

See Attached in Euna file://cfs/links/FS/Purchasing/Z_SHARED%20Management/BIDS/FY2022/1%20RFP%20745-22-PXX%20Master%20File%20February%202022/1_Working%20Documents/1_Draft%20Documents/www.uthscsa.edu