36C10X23R0006 - Draft Soliciation Questions and Government Responses.pdf

36C10X23R0006 Draft Soliciation Questions and Government Responses

Question # Page # RFP Section Reference Question Government response 1 8 5.2 Feasibility Analyses and Implementation

Planning - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1 The RFP notes that the Feasibility Analysis and Implementation Plan, at minimum, shall include the "continued implementation of the National Research Strategy." Is this referring to the PREVENTS National Research Strategy from December 2019?

Yes.

2 8 5.2 Feasibility Analyses and Implementation Planning - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1

The RFP notes that the Feasibility Analysis and Implementation Plan, at minimum, shall include "a review of the science on suicide prevention, with a focus on identifying interventions that are ready for further scaling as well as scientific gaps that are not currently targeted by research investments."

How does this differ from VA/DoD's Clinical Practice Guidelines that are regularly updated and the work being done in support of the CPG? Is the expectation that a separate review would be done outside of the CPG or in collaboration with the CPG?

The White House strategy for Reducing Military and Veteran Suicide includes a VA charge to "create a Feasibility Analysis and Implementation Plan for broad implementation of evidence-based suicide risk assessment and safety planning within emergency care settings (emergency transport, urgent care, and emergency departments) throughout the United States." This differs significantly from the VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guidelines, which are designed to reduce treatment variation, address the needs of specific patient cohorts, and establish consistent quality standards across VA/DOD care settings.

3 23 5.2.2.B Technology Focused Solutions - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1.5

How does the Government envision the Suicide Prevention App will differ from the various Mission Daybreak Phase 1 finalists' submissions?

The Government has not completed a full analysis on the differences between Mission Daybreak Phase 1 finalists and the Statement of Objectives.

4 23 5.2.2.B Technology Focused Solutions - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1.5

How does the Government envision the Smart Responder Bot will differ from what's currently offered through 988/VCL?

Though the Mission Daybreak finalists may include apps that facilitate engagement in care or improving Lethal Means Safety controls the charge to the Mission Daybreak teams is more narrow than what is envisioned for this requirement. While apps may be complementary, they are not redundant. Mission Daybreak winners are not automatically awarded a contract with VA for implementation of potential solutions. Contracting vehicles to further explore VA-specific AI solutions, scalability, and target populations has yet to be established and are separate from this requirement.

5 23 5.2.2.B Technology Focused Solutions - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1.5

How are biometrics envisioned to be utilized by the Veteran as part of the app capabilities? (e.g., authentication of Veteran, etc.)

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions through the use of biometrics in response to the Statement of Objectives.

6 23 5.2.2.B Technology Focused Solutions - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1.5

What does “tracking” include in the statement: “tracking of high risk for Transitional Service Members (TSMs) in the first year following transition from active duty to Veteran status?” (e.g., self-help only or some additional form of tracking?)

Tracking includes ongoing engagement with individuals post-discharge to facilitate supports, as needed. The Government is interested in Industry's tracking recommendations and solutions in response to the Statement of Objectives.

7 23 5.2.2.B Technology Focused Solutions - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1.5

Where will the app be hosted? (e.g., VA OIT servers, contractor servers, etc.?)

This is for the industry partner to explore and recommend as a part of the Statement of Objective pilots.

8 26 5.2.3.D Therapy Training - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1.8

Is that expectation that these trainings will be in-person or virtual? The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding therapy training approaches in response to the Statement of Objectives.

9 26 5.2.3.D Therapy Training - New Statement of Objective Section 6.1.8

Will an evaluation report (similar to what is being requested in 5.2.3.E) be required?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding the need for an evaluation report response to the Statement of Objectives.

10 28 6.0. Deliverable Table - New Section 9.0 It appears the Deliverable Table does not reflect each of the deliverables listed within the PWS. Will a deliverable table be updated in the final RFP for the remaining deliverables (5.2.1 through 5.2.3.H)?

There is only one deliverable - the feasibility analysis and implementation plan. The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations regarding interim deliveries.

11 45 B.3 Price/Cost Schedule Not to exceed $39,000,000 is mentioned under Paid Media. Is this cap for the entire requirement or limited to the paid media aspect of the requirement?

This limit applies to CLIN 0006, Paid Media, only.

12 45 B.3 Price/Cost Schedule Would the Government please share an overall budget for this requirement?

The Government will not share an overall budget for this requirement. Limits have been established for CLIN 0006, Paid Media.

13 N/A N/A Is there an Incumbent Contractor? No, this is a new requirement.

14 N/A N/A Is this a new requirement with the Department of Veterans Affairs? Yes, this is a new requirement.

15 1 Block 8 and 20 of the SF1449 Within RFP, it says check blocks 8 and 20 for the proposal due date and questions submission.

On the draft SF-1449 the blocks are blank.

When are the questions due for the proposal?

Block 20 of the SF1449 now includes the Solicitation Question response due date.

Block 8 of the SF1449 includes the proposal due date and time.

Attachment A - Fact - Finding Question Form

16 1 SF-1449

1. We do not see a proposal due date listed on page one (1) of the Solicitation. I believe when the Solicitation was first released the proposal due date was listed as either Dec. 5 or Dec. 12, 2022. Please confirm the proposal due date.

We are requesting an extension of the proposal due date to Dec. 21, 2022.

Block 8 of the SF1449 includes the proposal due date and time.

2.0 Scope of Work

Does the government anticipate any OCI concerns with future Office of Suicide Prevention efforts resulting from an award of this solicitation?

Yes, the awardee of this solicitation may not perform any subsequent maintenance or operations resulting from the recommended strategies delivered under this contract. Please see VAAR Clause 852.209-70 and Section E, Volume V, Paragraph (6) of the solicitation for instructions regarding Organizational Conflicts of Interest.

6 Travel

The PWS states that travel is not anticipated for this effort. However, many tasks require the offeror to travel for completion. Would the government consider adding travel to the scope and including a not to exceed (NTE) travel CLIN?

The Offeror shall provide an approach that addresses the statement of objectives.

If an Offeror's proposed approach that includes travel, the applicable CLIN pricing shall include any proposed travel costs. The Government will not add a separate Travel CLIN.

7 5.1 Contract and Project Management

The draft solicitation indicates that a proposed Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) will be reviewed during the kick off meeting and updated quarterly thereafter; however, the deliverable table in section 6.0 does not include the IMS. To help ensure the contractor can provide recommendations based on post-award knowledge and meetings with the client, will the government please consider having the IMS due with the Contractor Project Management Plan (CPMP)?

Please see the revised Section E - Volume I - Tab C

7 5.1 Contract and Project Management

Given the complexity and scope of the PWS requirements, has the government considered a requirement for a management plan to demonstrate a vendor’s ability to manage tasks, such as subcontractor management, recruitment, staffing and risk management across an integrated geographically dispersed team.

Please see the revised Section E - Volume I - Tab C

5.1 Contract and Project Management - New

Statement of Objective Sections 6.1.1 through 6.1.9.

Can the government please clarify how many pilots they anticipate occurring over the period of performance?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding pilots in response to the Statement of Objectives.

5.1 Contract and Project Management - New

Statement of Objective Sections 6.1.1 through 6.1.9.

Can the government clarify if the pilots, identified via scoping document, will be firm fixed price (FFP) or labor hour (LH) modifications to the overall contract? Would the government consider a T&M cost structure for pilot efforts?

This entire effort will be firm fixed price standard progress payments in accordance with FAR Clause 52.232-16 ALT I contained in the solicitation.

5.1 Contract and Project Management - New

Section 9.0

In Task 5.1, the draft PWS mentions several additional deliverables that are not in the deliverables table. These include a Cost Benefit Analysis for each piloted sub-project executed to build the Suicide Prevention Feasibility Analysis and Implementation Plan as well as Pilots Document.

The Pilots Document includes work effort, financial estimation and impact statement for the purpose of scoping suicide prevention related pilots including the determination of resources, facilitation of efforts, execution of engagement, estimated duration, complexity, organizational benefit, and implementation strategy.

Can the government please clarify if these are distinct deliverables in addition to those listed on Page 8? If so, can the government please update the deliverables table to include other required deliverables?

There is only one deliverable - the feasibility analysis and implementation plan. The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations regarding interim deliveries.

24 8

5.1 Contract and Project Management - New

Statement of Objective Sections 6.1.1 through 6.1.9.

The draft solicitation states that the Contractor shall develop pilots for approval by the Government.

Can the government please clarify the nature of, and contractor's responsibility for, the Pilots referenced throughout the draft solicitation.

Furthermore, can the government please outline deliverables that will be required for each pilot?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding pilots in response to the Statement of Objectives.

25 8

5.2 Feasibility Analysis and Implementation

Planning - New Statement of Objective Section 6.

Is there a current incumbent supporting implementation of the National Research Strategy, and if so, who?

No, this is a new requirement.

26 9

5.2 Feasibility Analysis and Implementation

Planning - New Statement of Objective Section 6.

The draft solicitation indicates that the contractor shall make iterative deliveries of the Suicide Prevention Feasibility Analysis and Implementation Plan in accordance with the Section 6 delivery schedule;

however, Section 6 only lists a quarterly report as a deliverable for this task. Can the government please update Section 6 to include all required deliverables for this task?

There is only one deliverable - the feasibility analysis and implementation plan. The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations regarding interim deliveries.

27 9

5.2 Feasibility Analysis and Implementation

Planning - New Statement of Objective Section 6.

To help inform level of effort, can the government provide specific detail on the required number/volume of the case studies and field information that will serve as the basis for the contractor's Suicide Prevention Feasibility Analysis and Implementation Plan recommendations?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding the necessary number and volume of case studies and field information in response to the Statement of Objectives.

28 10 5.2.1.A Lethal Means Safety Strategies - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1.

The solicitation indicates that the contractor should develop a comprehensive website for VA in collaboration with a community of firearm industry partners. Can the government clarify if this is a new website or an existing VA website?

This is will be a new website.

29 10 5.2.1.A Lethal Means Safety Strategies - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1.

Can the government specify the platform this website should be created in and if the offeror will have publishing access or work with VA Digital Service to publish the page and regular updates?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding a website platform in response to the Statement of Objectives. This requirement does not include any maintenance or operations services of any developed websites.

30 10 5.2.1.A Lethal Means Safety Strategies - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1.

Can the government please provide more detail on the website requirements (e.g., format, hosting requirements , number of videos required, etc.). Please also clarify if the site will be page(s) on VA.gov or a separate URL.

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding a website platform in response to the Statement of Objectives. This requirement does not include any maintenance or operations services of any developed websites.

31 10 5.2.1.A Lethal Means Safety Strategies - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1.

Is the website referenced in this section different from https://www.va.gov/reach/lethal-means/ or a reimagination of the information on this page?

Yes, this is will be a new website.

32 11

5.2.1.B Lethal Means Safety Video and PSA Production, Photography, and Educational Materials, Video Production - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1.

Can the government confirm how many Public Service Announcements (PSA) will be developed as part of this task?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding the number of PSAs necessary in response to the Statement of Objectives.

33 13 5.2.1.C Still Photography Shoots and Editing - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1.

Can the government confirm if the contractor is responsible for sending video equipment to Veterans across the country to facilitate their own impromptu photoshoots, or if the contractor will be onsite for these shoots to art direct the scenes?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding photoshoots in response to the Statement of Objectives.

34 16 5.2.1.D Paid Media Planning and Strategy

Can the government confirm if the "website development" task in this section is the same as the website development activities outlined in section 5.2.1.A? If different, can the government please clarify how these sites differ?

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and the website objective is now no longer included in the Paid Media Plan and only included under Section 6.1.1.

35 17 5.2.1.D Paid Media Planning and Strategy Can the government confirm that labor to develop advertising assets should be incorporated into pricing for this task?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding advertising assests in response to the Statement of Objectives.

36 17 5.2.1.D Paid Media Planning and Strategy - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.2.

Can the government share the expected reporting cadence for paid media efforts?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding a reporting cadence for paid media efforts in response to the Statement of Objectives.

37 18

5.2.1.E Lethal Means Safety Education Planning and Execution - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.3.

Can the government confirm whether the VA suicide prevention training repository will be a website that the offeror builds or if it already exists in some capacity?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training repository mediums in response to the Statement of Objectives.

38 19

5.2.1.E Lethal Means Safety Education Planning and Execution - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.3.

To help inform level of effort, can the government estimate how many educational and training materials and toolkits will be required as part of this task?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding the number of education and training materials necessary in response to the Statement of Objectives.

39 19

5.2.1.E Lethal Means Safety Education Planning and Execution - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.3.

Will the contractor be responsible for facilitating these trainings in person or virtually? If so, how many training sessions are anticipated during the period of performance?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training facilitation and necessary training quantities in response to the Statement of Objectives.

40 19

5.2.1.E Lethal Means Safety Education Planning and Execution - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.3.

To help inform level of effort, can the government please provide more specifics on the required number/length of education and training materials along with specific formats and platforms to be used.

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training length and necessary training quantities in response to the Statement of Objectives.

41 21

5.2.2.A Enhancing Crisis Care and Facilitating Care Transitions - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.4.

Can the government clarify if the contractor will be responsible for staffing the American/Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) specific crisis call centers to meet the mental health needs of Tribes and AI/AN populations?

This requirement does not include staffing the American/Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) specific crisis call centers.

42 21

5.2.2.A Enhancing Crisis Care and Facilitating Care Transitions - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.4.

The solicitation indicates that the contractor will be responsible for facilitating on-going support and safety in the case of warm transfers from

911. Can the government clarify the contractor's role in this process and if someone must be on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week to support this effort? If staff are required to be on-call or support shift scheduling, would the government consider a LH or T&M cost model?

This requirement does not include providing the actual support of any call centers.

Section 6.1.4 of the Statement of Objectives lists the Enhanced Crisis Care and Facilitate Care Transitions objectives to be addressed but does not include execution of the plan that is developed to address these objectives.

43 23

5.2.2 B Technology Focused Solutions - New

Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.5

Can the government clarify whether the Smart Responder Bot is part of the suicide prevention app or a technology to be used across other platforms?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions for a smart responder bot in response to the Statement of Objectives.

44 23 5.2.2.B, B. Smart Responder Bot - New Statement of Objectives Sections 6.1.5 and 6.1.6.

Can the government clarify that the Smart Responder Bot will be associated with the Veterans Crisis Line 988 chat and text feature?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions for a smart responder bot in response to the Statement of Objectives.

45 23 5.2.2.B, A. Suicide Prevention App - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.5 and 6.1.6.

Can the government further clarify the scope of the Suicide Prevention application task? For example, does the government intend for the offeror to provide additional research around technological developments in this domain as part of initial discovery initiatives?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions for a suicide prevention application in response to the Statement of Objectives.

46 23 5.2.2.B, B. Smart Responder Bot - New Statement of Objectives Sections 6.1.5 and 6.1.6.

Can the government provide clarification around anticipated hosting of the Smart Responder Bot? Will this require integration with VA websites or call center platforms? If so, can the government provide the technology stack for hosting requirements?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions for a smart responder bot in response to the Statement of Objectives.

47 23 5.2.2.B, A. Suicide Prevention App - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.5 and 6.1.6.

Does VA anticipate specific hosting and integration of this Suicide Prevention App with VA.gov or other VA-specific interfaces?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions for a suicide prevention application in response to the Statement of Objectives.

48 25 5.2.3.B Evidence-Based Development of Strategies

- New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.3.

Can the government clarify and elaborate how A. Access to Care Pilots, B.

Access to Care Change Requests and C. Access to Care Lessons Learned Registry align to the two paragraphs that outline researching cultural and evidence-based treatment needs; developing practice approaches; and developing trainings to educated providers for specialized veteran populations?

Suicide prevention evidence suggests that one-size-fits-all approaches are not effective. Data on the different drivers of risk across high-risk subpopulations (e.g.

women veterans under 35, American Indian/Alaska Native veterans, LGBTQ+ veterans, survivors of military sexual trauma, white veteran males over the age of 55, geographically remote veterans, and enlisted Service members under 30) is key to determining (A) how access to care is preferred (i.e. in-person, virtual, short-term intensive, long-term supports, etc.) (B) how Veterans can indicate care change requests to tailor treatments to their individual needs, and (C) how over-arching lessons can inform treatment best practices, direct resources to expand access / capacity, and inform where potential service gaps exist to direct future planning. The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding normalizing conversations and outreach to all communities in response to the Statement of Objectives.

49 25

5.2.3.C Intervention Identification and Development For Underrepresented Veteran Populations - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.7

How does VA envision the offerors will assess outcomes to updated or unique interventions for Veteran subpopulations?

Due to the nature of public health surveillance, sufficient time must be taken to conduct studies including a comprehensive review, then recommend a change, implement that change and measure its effectiveness. How effective will these assessments be given the 30-month total period of performance? More time is required to measure and evaluate long-term summative outcomes.

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions for the assessment in response to the Statement of Objectives and within the 30 month period of performance allotted for this requirement.

50 25 5.2.3.B Evidence-Based Development of Strategies

- New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8

Will trainings be conducted virtually to maximize reach to all providers and will there be refresher trainings? Will this be mandatory training?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training medium and quantities in response to the Statement of Objectives. Per the Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8, it is the VA's goal to include, at a minimum, an online training.

51 25 5.2.3.B Evidence-Based Development of Strategies

- New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8

Does VA anticipate that these trainings will be provided in an asynchronous, a synchronous format, or a combination of formats?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training format in response to the Statement of Objectives. Per the Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8, it is the VA's goal to include, at a minimum, an online training.

52 25

5.2.3.C Intervention Identification and Development For Underrepresented Veteran Populations - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.7

Can the government clarify where the pilots take place (e.g., 1 pilot per VISN)? How many pilots are expected? Are these pilots within VHA only?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding pilot locations and quantities in response to the Statement of Objectives.

53 25

5.2.3.C Intervention Identification and Development For Underrepresented Veteran Populations - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.7

Given the sensitive nature of identifying as LGBTQ+, there may be risks associated with recruitment and having a large enough sample to measure effectiveness of changes made to the identified interventions.

The impact of implementing modified protocols tailored for Veteran subpopulations, without a transition plan for sustainment where access to a modified resource will be provided then potentially removed should be taken into consideration, especially given the higher risk for suicide among the identified subpopulations.

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding identification and development of underrepresented veteran populations in response to the Statement of Objectives.

54 26 5.2.3.F Suicide Risk Reduction for PTSD Patients - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.9

On page 26 of the draft PWS, the government calls for an evidence-based list of strategies to reduce suicide risk. Since the scope of such a list is broad, will the government be willing to limit the scope of this list to the “implementation of brief, intensive, residential PTSD treatments (2-3 week programs) in the community, with a target of OEF/OIF/OND Veterans particularly in the 18-34 year old range at high risk for suicide” for whom the subsequent deliverable is an implementation plan?

Not at this time. However, the Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

55 26 5.2.3.D Therapy Training - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8

What modality must training use?

How many trainings must be delivered?

Which non-VHA providers are considered in scope for conducting this training?

How will the offeror select non-VHA providers? In general, we need much more information to know how to price/staff/plan for this.

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training medium, quantities, and use by both VHA and non-VHA providers in response to the Statement of Objectives. Per the Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8, it is the VA's goal to include, at a minimum, an online training. Solicitation Attachment 3 contains Government recommended labor categories.

56 26 5.2.3.E Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8

How many therapist facilitated online trainings are required?

Which community providers must be included in this training?

How should the offeror select community providers?

Which/how many VHA providers must be included in this training?

Who are the pilot groups described in A.?

Additional clarification and detail is required to develop an accurate level of effort and price.

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training medium, quantities, use by both VHA and non-VHA providers, and pilots in response to the Statement of Objectives. Per the Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8, it is the VA's goal to include, at a minimum, an online training. Solicitation Attachment 3 contains Government recommended labor categories.

57 26 5.2.3.F Suicide Risk Reduction for PTSD Patients - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.9

Can the government clarify if the offeror is responsible for developing an evidence-based list of strategies for Veterans with PTSD at risk of suicide or if the government is asking the offeror to create a treatment model using Prolonged Exposure or Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD to reduce suicidality?

Can the government clarify if the offeror should focus only on developing residential PTSD treatments for veterans in the community?

- Will these treatments be utilized by VA?

- Which community providers would the offeror work with?

How do the three deliverables (A. PTSD Treatment Plan, B. PTSD Treatment Model and C. PTSD Treatment Program Evaluation) map to the narrative under 5.2.3.F?

Additional clarification and detail is required to develop an accurate level of effort and price.

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

58 26 5.2.3.E Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8

The government states “For Priority 3, the CPMP should include, at a minimum, an online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Training Module and mechanism for evaluating success. Does this mean the offeror only needs to develop an online version of the training and mechanism for evaluating this training? Does the offeror need to also deliver the training that is facilitated by a therapist?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding training modules in response to the Statement of Objectives. Per the Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8, it is the VA's goal to include, at a minimum, an online training.

59 28 6.0. Deliverable Table - New Section 9.0

The deliverable table does not include any information for any tasks but 5.1 and 5.2.A. Can the government please provide a deliverable table that includes requirements for each task in the updated solicitation?

There is only one deliverable - the feasibility analysis and implementation plan. The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations regarding interim deliveries.

60 29 Key Personnel - New Section 11.0

They key personnel requirements are very explicit which may limit the talent pool each offeror can recruit to staff these positions. Is the government willing to revise the key personnel requirements to promote increased competition across offerors? Additionally, is the offeror able to substitute education degrees for experience across key personnel categories?

The key personnel requirements remain unchanged.

61 31 9.0 ODC - New Section 12.0

The draft SOW states "Overhead/G&A costs shall not be included with ODC costs and will not be reimbursed by the Government." Will the government please reconsider, as these ODCs should be considered Cost Reimbursable and OH/G&A is included under the FAR.

The separate ODC CLIN has been removed from the solicitation.

62 32 PWS 11.1 Position/Task Risk Designation Level(s) - New Section 14.1

The security designation table currently indicates Tier 4 High BI. Having this level of clearance requirement for all contract personnel could impede access to qualified individuals or delay contract performance due to lengthy adjudication processes. Can the government clarify the security requirements and risk designation level in the PWS?

This is a necessary requirement due to the nature of the work and access to sensitive information and remains unchanged.

63 44 Appendix - Outcome Measurement and Metric Map

Website conversions are listed as a specific metric for campaign fidelity, will the government allow for the contractor to place tracking pixels on the website to best show conversion data?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding website development in response to the Statement of Objectives.

64 73 Section E - Solicitation Provisions

Can the government confirm that Visionary Consulting Partners will not be eligible to bid on this effort if they are assisting the Source Selection Organization?

Correct.

65 74 I. Volume 1 – Technical, Tab A – Technical Capability

The government says the offeror shall provide a detailed approach addressing all 5.X series and 6.X series paragraphs in the Performance Work statement. However, Section 6 is the deliverables table. Can the government clarify what 6.X series paragraphs should cover?

Please see the revised Section E - Solicitation Provisions - Volume I

66 74 I. Volume 1 – Technical, Tab B – Key Personnel

If the offeror provides additional key personnel than what the government has outlined in PWS 11.0, can the page limit for Tab B increase by 2 pages for each additional key personnel proposed?

Please see the revised Section E - Solicitation Provisions - Volume I

67 74 I. Volume 1 – Technical, Tab B – Key Personnel, 3.

D. letters of Commitment

Can the government confirm that Letters of Commitment are excluded from the page limit of the Technical volume?

Please see the revised Section E - Solicitation Provisions - Volume I

68 75 I. Volume 1 – Technical, Tab C – Project Management Approach

Can the government clarify if it wants the full CPMP in the Technical Volume or just the executive summary? If the full CPMP is required, can the government please increase the page limit to 50 pages for Tab C?

The CPMP is excluded from the page count. See Section E of the solicitation.

69 76 II. Volume II – Price

The government states the pricing for this effort is firm fixed price.

However, there is a great deal of uncertainty around key deliverables and quantities and what levels of support will be required to meet research, pilot and evaluation needs. Will the government consider making this contract T&M, which will reduce risk to both the offeror and the government?

The contract type remains Firm-Fixed Price.

70 77 IV. Volume IV – Media Planning

Can the government confirm the timeline for the media plan and $39 million budget? Is the $39 for the entire period of performance (30 months) or some subset of time (12 month and then another 12 months)?

The NTE $39M for CLIN 0006, Paid Media, is for the entire 30-month Period of Performance. The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding a paid media plan in response to the Statement of Objectives and within the 30-month period of performance.

71 80 Factor 3 Past Performance

The government states “a major subcontractor is defined as one who will be and/or whose subcontract is considered to be a significant portion of the work effort.” Can the government please confirm what they mean by "significant portion of the work effort?"

Please see the revised E.2 52.212-2 Factor 3.

72 80 Factor 3 Past Performance

The government states “Examples of relevant and recent past performance include specific experience within the last five years improving access to care for diverse demographical groups of patients and developing PSAs that resulted in positive social and healthcare outcomes.”

Can the government confirm if they are only looking for past performance related to these two topics (access to care and PSA development)? If not, can the government clarify what it believe are relevant and recent experience?

These are just examples of relevant and recent past performance. Per solicitation Section E.2 52.212-3 Factor 3, "The Government reserves the right to obtain past performance information from any available source and may contact customers other than those identified by the Offeror when evaluating past performance."

73 19-20 5.2.1.F Internal and External Communications Support - New Statement of Objectives Section 7

Many of the tasks outlined in this section, align to other tasks under 5.2.1.

To help inform level of effort, can the government please clarify the quantities of requested products under this task?

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

74 44-45 Price/Cost Schedule

The Price/Cost Schedule has quantity listed as 1 LT. Can the government please update unit to align to how the offeror will invoice (e.g., 12 MO or by deliverable)?

Section B.3 CLIN unit of issue remains unchanged. See FAR Clause 52.232-16 ALT I, Progress Payments, which is found under Section C.3 of the solicitation.

75 N/A General

Is there currently a contractor(s) performing work outlined in this draft solicitation. If so, can the government provide the contract numbers and incumbent company names?

No, this is a new requirement.

76 N/A N/A Can the VA please identify the incumbent contractor(s) and contract number(s)?

No, this is a new requirement.

77 N/A N/A

Can VA explain how this relates to historical RFI #36C10X22Q0242 released on 08/12/2022, RFI #36C10X22Q0055 released on 01/14/2022, and RFI #36C10X22Q0031 released on 12/02/2021? These previous RFIs do not appear to have contained key personnel requirements for psychologists, data scientists, modelers, epidemiologists, etc. Is this new RFI consolidating multiple contracts with the previous RFI requirements?

The Government conducted market research to gain a better understand the landscape of industry capabilities and support for this requirement. This solicitation is not a consolidation of requirements.

78 N/A N/A When does the VA anticipate the final solicitation will be released? See the final solicitation issued with this question and answer response.

79 36

12.2 c. "Contract personnel who require access to national security programs must have a valid security clearance." - New Section 15.2

Will any of the positions require access to national security programs, and if so, can the VA please specify which positions?

This is not required.

80 77 VOLUME III – Past Performance Can VA confirm that offerors may use past performance from proposed subcontractors?

See Section E.2 52.212-3 Factor 3 of the solicitation.

81 73 "Government Support Contractors may assist the Source Selection Organization…"

Is Visionary Consulting Partners, LLC the only non-government entity that will assist with the Source Selection?

Yes.

82 29 "FC2- Media Planner Sr" What does the "FC2" signify on the left side of the hyphen for the Media Planner position title?

This is a typo and has been removed.

83 77 VOLUME IV – Media Planning

A media plan is required as part of the proposal submission (Volume IV), however the media plan is also an SOW requirement under 5.2.1.D., which should include the data-driven evidence achieved through the other SOW task areas. Can the VA please clarify their expectations for the media plan that is to be included as part of the proposal submission (Volume IV)?

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

84 7 and 75

5.1 Contract and Project Management

Tab C - Project Management Approach

Project management is required in two places. Tab A requires the contractor to address the PWS and PWS 5.1 covers contract and project management requirements. Tab C also requires the contractor to address project management. The requirements within Tab A to address PWS 5.1 and Tab C Instructions overlap significantly, and both reference the CPMP, which is to be submitted with the proposal.

Would the government consider consolidating the management requirement into Tab C and increase the page limit (currently 10) so that it can accommodate a management approach and the stand-alone CPMP.

Please see the revised Section E - Solicitation Provisions - Volume I

85 7

5.1 Contract and Project Management

Paragraph 1

Would the government consider striking the line [The contractor shall enter into all work with the understanding that no “sustainment or continuous operations” is to be performed and is considered out of scope of this contract.] to avoid the awardee from a conflict of interest that would bar them from performing "sustainment or continuous operations” on a subsequent contract? Alternately, would the government consider including language such as [The Contractor is not barred from pursuing sustainment or continuous operations of any of the plans developed under this contract.]? Without such clarification, the Government may unnecessarily and unintentionally restrict its own access to the Contractor’s expertise beyond the scope of this SOW due to a perceived or actual organizational conflict of interest.

This solicitation does not include any operations or maintenance scope.

86 8

5.2 Feasibility Analysis and Implementation

Planning

Paragraph 1 - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.0

Would the Government consider revising the line in the first paragraph, “The analysis conducted…and funding may be implemented to reinforce…” to specify “…notional funding, not to include the review and proposal of budgets for planning purposes, may be implemented to reinforce…” Inclusion of budgetary information could unnecessarily and unintentionally restrict its own access to the Contractor’s expertise beyond the scope of this SOW due to a perceived or actual organizational conflict of interest.

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

87 10

5.2.1.A Lethal Means Safety Strategies

Paragraph 2 - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1

Would the Government consider changing the language [The Contractor shall include analysis of VA funding, storage needs, policy guidance.] to [The Contractor shall include analysis of historic levels of VA funding, storage needs, and policy guidance.]? Inclusion of current or future funding information could unnecessarily and unintentionally restrict its own access to the Contractor’s expertise beyond the scope of this SOW due to a perceived or actual organizational conflict of interest.

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

88 13

5.2.1.B Lethal Means Safety Video and PSA Production, Photography, and Educational Materials, Video Production:

Suicide Prevention and Lethal Means Creative Assets Conception, Development, and Production

1st Paragraph on the page, bullet B - - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.1

Bullet B. begins with the statement [180 new educational / awareness creative assets:]. It appears to be at odds with the rest of that bullet’s contents, which requires one 180-second video and 8 shorter videos, not 180 total assets? Would the government correct the paragraph lead-in to be consistent?

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

89 26 5.2.3.D Therapy Training - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8

We assume it is not the Government’s intent for the Contractor to deliver training to every VHA (and potentially non-VHA providers involved in the pilot), as this role is traditionally considered inherently governmental.

Would the government consider deleting the line [The Contractor shall train all VHA mental health residents, interns, practicum students (including case consultation).]?

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

90 26 5.2.3.E Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.8

Would the Government consider changing the language in the first line from [The Contractor shall develop therapist facilitated online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy that will…] to [The Contractor shall develop therapist facilitated online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy training that will…]?

The Government is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions regarding online cognitive behavioral therapy in response to the Statement of Objectives.

91 26 5.2.3.F Suicide Risk Reduction for PTSD Patients - New Statement of Objectives Section 6.1.9

We assume it is not the government’s intention for the Contractor to engage in the delivery of clinical care. Therefore, would the Government consider changing the language in the second line from:

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

92 27 5.2.3.G Zero Suicide initiative

The term “Zero Suicide” used throughout the draft RFP. It is our understanding that the Zero Suicide model is proprietary. Would the Government consider changing the language throughout to “a Zero Suicide-like” model?

Or, to promote fair competition, will the Government incorporate the owner of the Zero Suicide model into the project through a separate contract?

In the absence of either of the above remedies, would the government expect every offeror to engage the owner individually?

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives.

93 30 8.0 Key Personnel - New Section 11.0

We understand Tab B instructions are that [Only one resume may be submitted per proposed key personnel resource.] However, in 8.0 Key Personnel, the table shows [Modelers], the only position that indicates more than one person. Given that not all modelling positions are the same, will the government specify the number of Modelers required as key personnel, and if more than one resume is required?

Please see the revised Section E and Attachment 3.

94 6 and 45

4.4 Travel

Paragraph 1

B.3 Price/Cost Schedule (and related pricing questions)

Page 6 under section 4.4 Travel highlights [Travel shall be reflected on the task order as a separate, reimbursable line item with a not-to exceed (NTE) total expenditure.] On page 45 under section B.3 Price/cost schedule, there is no line item for Travel with an NTE. Will the government provide an NTE for Travel? Also, does the Government intend to reimburse the Contractor for Overhead/G&A related to Travel, per VA generally accepted practices?

The Government has shifted to a Statement of Objectives and is interested in Industry's recommendations and solutions to meet these objectives. Any travel costs included in an Offeror's proposed solution should be included within the Offeror's proposed CLIN pricing. This solicitation does not include a separate cost-reimbursable CLIN for travel.

95 44-45 B.3 Price/Cost Schedule (and related pricing questions)

For each ITEM NUMBER, would the Government consider dividing it into 30 units, enabling invoicing on a monthly basis through the POP? If not, can the Government clarify how it expects to be invoiced for completed work?

Section B.3 CLIN unit of issue and quantities remain unchanged. See FAR Clause 52.232-16, Progress Payments, which is found under Section C.3 of the solicitation.

96 3 and 44-45

B.1 Contract Administration Data, 3. Invoices

B.3 Price/Cost Schedule (and related pricing questions)

On Page 3 under section B.1 Contract Administration Data, the Government states that invoices shall be submitted 30 days upon delivery and acceptance by the government. Would the Government consider adjusting the invoice cadence to monthly for the period of performance of the contract? If not, can the Government clarify its desired invoice schedule for this performance-based firm fixed price contract and how it defines a “unit,” and how those units should be accounted for in the

PRICE/COST SCHEDULE?

Section B.3 CLIN unit of issue and quantities remain unchanged. See FAR Clause 52.232-16 ALT I, Progress Payments, which is found under Section C.3 of the solicitation. Section B.1 of the solicitation has been updated to reference FAR Clause 52.232-16 Alt I.

97 73

Section E – Solicitation Provisions

Table in (g) Will the Government provide an Excel template for offerors to follow?

The Government will not include an Excel Template for the table in Solicitation Provision Section (g).

98 76

SECTION E – Solicitation Provisions

II. Volume II - Price

This section notes that the Government will evaluate the price schedule and [Proposed labor hours and fixed hourly rates shall be submitted in a separate excel workbook as part of the Price Volume.] Can the Government clarify how the contents of this excel workbook will be evaluated, if at all?

See E.2 52.232-2 Factor 2 - Price which has been updated in the final sonication.

99 79

E.2 52.212-2 Evaluation—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (NOV 2021)

Factor 2 – Price

Can the Government explain the apparent conflict between the statement in the first paragraph, [The Government will not conduct price realism on any of the FFP CLINs.] with the last line of the following paragraph, [Offerors are cautioned that to the extent proposed prices are unrealistic…]? If no price realism is conducted, how will the government determine whether the proposed prices are unrealistic?

See E.2 52.232-2 Factor 2 - Price which has been updated in the final solicitation.

100 27 5.2.3.G Zero Suicide Initiative - No longer included in the new Statement of Objectives.

Based on the VA Zero Suicide Demonstration Project Act of 2021 which includes SEC. 2. ZERO SUICIDE INITIATIVE PILOT PROGRAM.

(a) Establishment.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Veterans Affairs shall establish a pilot program called the “Zero Suicide Initiative” (referred to in this section as the “program”).

(b) Curriculum. The program shall implement the curriculum of the Zero Suicide Institute of the Education Development Center (referred to in this section as the “Institute”) to improve safety and suicide care for veterans, thereby significantly reducing rates of suicide.

Will the…