36C24726R0130.pdf

PAGE 1 OF 1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. UEI: EFT:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

36C24726R0130 10-23-2026

Kelleen Minor none 11-24-2026 2:00 pm EDT

36C247 Department of Veterans Affairs VISN 7 Network Contracting Office 3 FL Directors Office 3700 Crestwood Parkway Duluth GA 30096

X 100

X

621910

$22.5 Million

Net 30

N/A

X

See Delivery Schedule

36C247

Department of Veterans Affairs VISN 7 Network Contracting Office 3 FL Directors Office 3700 Crestwood Parkway Duluth GA 30096

Austin Payment Center Department of Veteran Affairs

PO Box 149971 Austin TX 78714-8971

(877) 353-9791 (512) 460-5545

See CONTINUATION Page

Emergent and Nonemergent Ambulance Transportation Services for Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System.

This requirement is a 100% Set Aside for Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).

Per RFO 52.219-27 incorporated by reference in this solicitation and the resulting contract, Offers shall only be accepted from eligible SDVOSBs.

Offers received from entities other than certified SDVOSBs in the SBA certification database at:

https://veterans.certify.sba.gov/ at the time of offer shall not be considered for evaluation for any award result-ing from this solicitation.

Please see the following pages for detail.

See CONTINUATION Page

X X

X 1

Thomas Nicholls Contracting Officer

36C24726R0130

Table of Contents

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

B.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

B.4 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (OCT 2025) (DEVIATION)

C.2 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.3 52.216-18 ORDERING (AUG 2020)

C.4 52.216-19 ORDER LIMITATIONS (OCT 1995)

C.5 52.216-22 INDEFINITE QUANTITY (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

C.6 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

C.7 52.222-40 NOTIFICATION OF EMPLOYEE RIGHTS UNDER THE NATIONAL

LABOR RELATIONS ACT (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

C.8 52.222-42 STATEMENT OF EQUIVALENT RATES FOR FEDERAL HIRES (MAY

2014)

C.9 52.222-90 ADDRESSING DEI DISCRIMINATION BY FEDERAL CONTRACTORS

(DEVIATION APR 2026)

C.10 52.223-23 SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

C.11 SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

C.12 52.232-19 AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR THE NEXT FISCAL YEAR (APR

1984)

C.13 52.240-91 SECURITY PROHIBITIONS AND EXCLUSIONS (NOV 2025)

(DEVIATION)

C.14 VAAR 852.211-76 LIQUIDATED DAMAGES – REIMBURSEMENT FOR DATA

BREACH COSTS (FEB 2023) ALTERNATE I (FEB 2023)

C.15 VAAR 852.219-75 VA NOTICE OF LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING—

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FOR SERVICES AND CONSTRUCTION (OCT 2026)

(DEVIATION)

C.16 852.237-70 INDEMNIFICATION AND MEDICAL LIABILITY (OCT 26)

(DEVIATION)

(End of clause)

C.17 INSURANCEMANDATORY WRITTEN DISCLOSURES

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

D.1 WAGE DETERMINATIONS

D.2 BUSINESS ASSOCIATE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OF

VETERANS AFFAIRS VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, , AND

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (OCT 2025) (DEVIATION)

E.2 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

E.3 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (OCT 2018)

E.4 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

E.5 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

E.6 52.240-90 SECURITY PROHIBITIONS AND EXCLUSIONS REPRESENTATIONS

AND CERTIFICATIONS (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

E.7 VAAR 852.233-71 ALTERNATE PROTEST PROCEDURE (OCT 2018)

E.8 52.212-2 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL

SERVICES (OCT 2025) (DEVIATION)

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C247 – Thomas Nicholls Department of Veterans Affairs VISN 7 Network Contracting Office 3 FL Directors Office 3700 Crestwood Parkway Duluth GA 30096

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

[X] 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System For Award Management, or

[] 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

a. Quarterly []

b. Semi-Annually []

c. Other [X] Monthly in arrears

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

AMENDMENT NO DATE

B.2 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

1. Purpose: The Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System (CAVHCS), its associated

Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs), and affiliated healthcare clinics require contracted non-emergency ambulance transportation services. The contractor shall provide all vehicles, personnel, management, supplies, equipment, and necessary reporting for the provision of Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), Specialty Care Transport (SCT) or Critical Care Transport (CCT) services. The contractor shall make these ambulance services available to the VA as needed, 24 hours a day, seven days a week (24/7), including weekends and holidays.

2. Background: The Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System main campus is located

215 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, Alabama, 36109 serving over 45,698 veterans, primarily from the Montgomery area and its 4 Community-Based Outpatient Clinics. The hospital has 262 inpatient beds and sees approximately 1100 inpatient admissions and 1,918,930 scheduled and unscheduled outpatient appointments in visits a FY26. Veterans served within this facility lives within the following counties and zip codes.

County/Zip Code County/Zip Code County/Zip

Code County/Zip Code County/Zip Code

Muscogee, GA 31901; 31902;

31903;31904;

31905; 31906;

31907; 31908;

31801; 31808;

31820; 31829;

31869; 31877

Chambers, AL 36274; 36276;

36801; 36850;

36852; 36854;

36855; 36862;

36863; 36879

Butler, AL 36030; 36032;

36033; 36037;

36042; 36071;

36456; 36474

Autauga, AL 36003; 36006;

36008; 36022;

36051; 36066;

36067; 36068;

36091; 36108;

36703; 36749;

36758

Geneva, AL 36301; 36305;

36313; 36314;

36316; 36318;

36322; 36340;

36344; 36352;

36375; 36442;

36453; 36467;

36477

Russell, AL 36027; 36804;

36851; 36856;

36858; 36860;

36867; 36869;

36870; 36871;

36874; 36875;

36877

Montgomery, AL 36043; 36064;

36066; 36067;

36068; 36104;

36105; 36106;

36107; 36108;

36109; 36110;

36111; 36112;

36113; 36115;

36116; 36117

Wilcox, AL 36030; 36435;

36720; 36722;

36723; 36726;

36728; 36751;

36753; 36761;

36766; 36768;

36769; 36783;

36784

Chilton, AL 35035; 35040;

35045; 35046;

35085; 35115;

35171; 36006;

36051; 36091;

36750; 36758;

36790; 36792;

36793

Lee, AL 36801; 36804;

36830; 36832;

36849; 36850;

36852; 36854;

36865; 36866;

36867; 36870;

36874; 36877;

36879

Covington, AL 36028; 36038;

36420; 36421;

36442; 36453;

36455; 36456;

36467; 36474;

36476; 36483

Houston, AL 36301; 36303;

36305; 36312;

36319; 36320;

36321; 36343;

36345; 36350;

36352; 36370;

36375; 36376

Elmore, AL 36024; 36025;

36045; 36054;

36078; 36080;

36110; 36117

Troup, GA 30230; 30240;

30241; 30261;

31833;

Chattahoochee, GA

31805; 31905

Dale, AL 36322; 36330;

36344; 36349;

36360; 36362;

36371; 36376

Lownes, AL 36032; 36040;

36041; 36043;

36047; 36701;

36752; 36761;

36775; 36785

Macon, AL Monroe, AL Henry, AL Perry, AL

36026; 36083;

36088; 36853;

36866

36460; 36475;

36476; 36480;

36481

36317; 36321;

36325; 36345;

36373

36701; 36702;

36722; 36745;

36749; 36752;

36756; 36759

Tallapoosa, AL 35010; 35072;

35089; 36026;

36078

Escambia, AL 36426; 36427;

36432; 36441;

36445; 36460;

36473; 36475;

36480

Coffee, AL 36316; 36318;

36320; 36330;

36344; 36349;

36453; 36467;

36468; 36474

Dallas, AL 36701; 36702;

36720; 36722;

36726; 36745;

36749; 36756;

Bullock, AL 36029; 36053 36089

Conecuh, AL 36034; 36035;

36047; 36432;

36454; 36475

Burbon, AL 35005

Crenshaw, AL 36009; 36028;

36033; 36040;

36480

3. Acronyms

ALS – Advanced Life Support

AOD – Administrative Officers of the Day

BLS – Basic Life Support

CCT – Critical Care Transport

CCTP – Critical Care Transport Paramedic

CCEMTP – Critical Care Emergency Medical Transport

CO – Contracting Officer

COR – Contracting Officer’s Representative

CPR – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

DOL – Department of Labor

EMT – Emergency Medical Technician

IAW – In Accordance With

OO – Ordering Officer

PWS – Performance Work Statement

QASP – Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

QC – Quality Control Plan

TB – Tuberculosis

TJC – The Joint Commission

VTS – Veteran Transportation Service

4. Scope/Requirements

4.1. Types of Ambulance Service

4.1.1. The contractor shall provide Emergent, nonemergent Transports, Basic Life

Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), and Critical Care Transport (CCT) Tier 1, 2, and 3 ambulance services on an as-needed basis in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations.

4.1.2. Occasionally a veteran will need to be transported with VA staff and equipment;

the contractor shall return VA Staff and equipment to the original place of pick-up.

4.2. Transport of Miscellaneous Items with the Patient

The Contractor may also be required to transport patient luggage, medical records, medication, and comfort items from pickup points to destination at no additional cost to the Government. Luggage to be transported will be restricted to suitcase and valise types. When patients are transported to the Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System, destination is deemed to be the ER, Admissions, the clinic, or service within the hospital, or directly to the ward as instructed by VA Staff.

4.3. Contractor Personnel: Contractor personnel shall be courteous and always conduct themselves in a businesslike manner while providing services under this contract.

4.3.1. The solicitation and subsequent contact include FAR 52.222-41, Service

Contract Labor Standards (SCLS). The Offeror and resultant contract awardee, by signing the offer and contract, is acknowledging they have reviewed the clause and will fully comply throughout the contract period. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to determine and pay the appropriate prevailing wage rate and fringe benefits for the location. The Government will not be held responsible for any mistakes in applying the SCLS. VA reminds contractors of the Department of Labor Regulations which implement the SCLS and which read at 29 CFR § 4.155:

Employee coverage does not depend on form of employment contract. The Act, in section 8(b), makes it plain that the coverage of service employees depends on whether their work for the contractor or subcontractor on a covered contract is that of a service employee as defined in section 8(b) and not on any contractual relationship that may be alleged to exist between the contractor or subcontractor and such persons. In other words, any person, except those discussed in §4.156 below, who performs work called for by a contract or that portion of a contract subject to the Act is, per se, a service employee. Thus, for example, a person's status as an “owner-operator” or an “independent contractor” is immaterial in determining coverage under the Act and all such persons performing the work of service employees must be compensated in accordance with the Act's requirements.

4.3.2. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Critical Care Transport Paramedics

(CCTPs) & Other Personnel

4.3.2.1. EMTs, CCTPs and other medical personnel (as applicable) shall at all times meet the qualifications specified in this contract as well as all applicable federal, state, and local government laws, regulations, and standards. EMTs, CCTPs and other medical personnel (as applicable) shall be certified, licensed, or otherwise officially recognized by the local, state, or regional government or public entity where the emergency service is operated or by which it is governed.

4.3.2.2. If the contractor wishes to add or replace personnel throughout the life of the contract, it shall provide evidence of required training, certifications, licensing, and any other qualifications to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) for review.

4.3.2.3. All ambulance drivers shall have a valid driver’s license in accordance with state requirements for their place of operation and the services they perform. If the contractor wishes to add or replace drivers throughout the life of the contract, it shall provide a valid driver’s license to the

COR.

4.3.2.4. CCTPs shall have met all state requirements for the tier in which they are performing services in (I, II, III). Proof in the form of a current certificate for the successful completion of such must be provided to the COR upon request.

4.3.2.5. Investigative Requirements for Contract Personnel: Contract personnel will be subject to the same investigative requirements as those for regular VA appointees and employees. The level of investigation commensurate with the level of access to perform the performance work statement is: Special Agreement Checks (SAC). Fingerprinting for contract personnel will be conducted at Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System. Thereafter the contracted employees will be subject annually to the same requirement, with a 90-day window to complete such requirement as provided by Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System. The Workforce Management and Consulting, Human Resource Operation Office, Personnel Security Contracting Team (WMC HROO PerSec Contracting Team) is responsible for adjudicating all background investigations for contract employees.

4.3.2.6. EMTs, CCTPs, and other contractor personnel as applicable must pass the Contractor’s background check and must not have been convicted of (or have any pending charges for) a felony for the past five years.

Personnel (and Contractor) must report any new or additional charges or convictions if they arise during the course of performance under this contract so VA can review them and determine whether the employee in question needs to be discharged of his or her duties until the matter is adjudicated. The contractor, when notified of an unfavorable determination by the Government, shall withdraw the employee from consideration from working under the contract.

Failure to comply with the contractor personnel security requirements may result in termination of the contract or cause.

4.3.3. Tuberculosis Exposure Control Policy

4.3.3.1. The contractor shall provide the VA with a policy on tuberculosis (TB) exposure and control, to include TB decontamination.

4.3.3.2. The contractor shall have its personnel tested for TB in accordance with state guidelines and provide written confirmation to the COR that all personnel (current employees and any new hires) performing services under this contract are current in their TB test by the start of each Ordering Period.

4.4. Contractor Equipment, Vehicles, and Inspection

4.4.1. Ambulances shall meet all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and specifications, including but not limited to licensing, registration, and safety standards.

4.4.2. The VA reserves the right to inspect the contractor’s equipment and vehicles or require documentation of compliance with state laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines governing emergency medical transport vehicles (ambulances). VA inspections of contractor equipment do not constitute a warranty or guarantee that the contractor’s vehicles and equipment are properly maintained. The VA reserves the right to restrict the contractor’s use of equipment and vehicles in the performance of this contract which are not in compliance with contract requirements. The restriction of such equipment and vehicles shall not relieve the contractor from performance in accordance with the contract nor necessitate additional cost to the VA.

4.4.3. Vehicles shall be clean and maintained in good repair in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

4.4.4. The contractor shall not borrow or exchange supplies, equipment, and/or medications with the VA. Equipment attached to or in use by the patient at time of pick-up may remain with the patient during transport to ensure continuity of care. Medical Control Authorities are responsible for maintaining and supplying medication during patient transport. All VA equipment and unused medications must be returned to VA during patient drop-off or as promptly as feasible within 24 hours.

4.4.5. The contractor shall furnish all linen required for patient transport at no additional cost. Linen shall not be exchanged with linen belonging to Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System or its CBOCs.

4.4.6. The contractor must be capable of transporting the drugs and/or equipment as required by the patient as listed in Attachment A Specialty Care Transport (SCT) or Critical Care Transport (CCT) Capabilities Confirmation. The contractor shall have the appropriate medications, including Specialty Care and Critical Care Transport, if necessary, based on the EMS region the ambulance provider is functioning in.

4.4.7. The contractor shall furnish qualified personnel as required by contract specifications to accomplish all services under this contract.

4.4.7.1. The contractor personnel performing services for the VA, shall, at all times, conduct themselves in a professional manner, and be identified by having the company name, and employee name affixed to the uniform. The Contractor shall be responsible for furnishing all vehicles, uniforms, nametags and/or badges for performance of services under this contract. Employee identifications shall be worn in clear view above the waist.

The contractor personnel shall not smoke/play loud music originating from any device in vehicles while transporting VA patients.

4.4.7.2. Each driver shall possess a driver’s license that is valid for the class of vehicle driven. Evidence of a special transportation service vehicle permit, or endorsement issued by the commissioner of public safety.

• Be at least 18 years of age and have not less than one year of experience as a licensed driver; and o For the past three years:

Have not had a driver’s license canceled or suspended.

Have a driving record clear of convictions for operating a motor vehicle or motorcycle without insurance.

Have a driving record clear of convictions for driving a motor vehicle without a valid current license for the class of vehicle driven

Have a driving and criminal record clear of convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.

4.4.7.3. The contractor personnel will ensure that the patient is secured to the stretcher/cot and that the stretcher /cot is secure in the back of the ambulance before the vehicle moves.

4.4.7.4. Ambulance drivers shall have a valid driver’s license, in accordance with Federal, State, and local government requirements for their place of operation for the services they perform, be capable of administering oxygen and shall have successfully completed the standard and advanced first aid course of the American Red Cross of U.S. Bureaus of Mines of equivalent and be capable of providing necessary medical assistance to the attending emergency medical technician or paramedic.

4.4.7.5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Paramedic Qualifications:

EMT’s and Paramedic’s providing services under this contract shall have the following qualifications, in addition to those required by Federal, State, and Local Government:

• Have completed training in accordance with the standards published by the Department of Health and Human Services with a minimum curriculum of 150 hours or equivalent including an in-hospital training period. Such training programs must also be acceptable under the regulating requirements for local EMS Systems supported by DHHS under PL 93-154, Federal Register 39:24304. (1974).

• Shall be certified, licensed, or otherwise officially recognized by the local, state of regional government or public entity where the emergency ambulance service is operated or by which it is governed.

4.5. Transportation Request

4.5.1 VetRide or VA-approved Transportation Software Utilization:

The contractor agrees to utilize the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-Approved Transportation Software with every patient transported under this contract.

Department of Veteran Affairs will provide the software and access to the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-Approved Transportation Software for the vendor/contractor in this contract. The Contractor will utilize the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-Approved Transportation Software fully as instructed:

a) Receive and respond to electronic trip requests

b) Receive, use, and ensure the use of the Vendor pass by the driver.

c) Submit claims via the electronic HCFA 1500 in the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-

Approved Transportation Software system.

d) All invoices shall be submitted in accordance with 38 CFR 70 (PWS Section

4.9.6 for additional instructions).

e) Unauthorized charges will be reviewed by the Contracting Officer Representative

(COR) as to the validity of the charges and as to whether the payment will be made. A final determination will be made within 30 days after notifying the Contractor of the charges which are being suspended.

4.5.1.1. A transportation request is defined as one incidence of a request for one-way service (Stretcher Transports, BLS, ALS, CCT). No more than one patient will be transported per order unless approved by an authorized VA staff. Transportation requests will be made through VetRide or VA-Approved

Transportation Software Utilization. Contractors must have the capability to receive orders, update ride status, and input trip costs and other required data through this portal. Contractors must have dedicated staff available to monitor this portal 24/7. Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System Travel Program Staff will be available to assist with account setup and training for the Contractor’s Staff. In the event VetRide or other VA-Approved Transportation Software Utilization is down, other methods of communication (i.e., telephone, facsimile) will be used to place Transportation requests.

4.5.1.1.1. Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System Travel Program

Staff/or authorized VA employees will work with the Contractor the following business day to reconcile any transportation requests that were placed outside of VetRide or VA-Approved Transportation Software Utilization.

4.5.1.1.2. The Contractor must update VetRide or VA-Approved

Transportation Software Utilization with any data and/or notes in real time that deviate from the original order such as invoicing for additional mileage due to a road closure, wait time, reason for no load, etc. Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System Travel Program Staff/or authorized VA employees may place a “hold” on payment of this order until it has been reconciled.

4.5.1.2. Only the following VA staff are authorized to place, cancel, or make changes to transportation requests:

Contracting Officer (CO) Ordering Officers (OO) Administrative Officer of the Day (AOD) Beneficiary Travel Office Staff Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR)

The Contracting Officer will furnish the Contractor with the names of individuals above, who are authorized as Ordering Officers, by separate memorandum upon issuance of the contract. The Contracting Officer will update this list throughout the life of the contract as Ordering Officers change.

Ordering Officers are responsible for issuing and administering orders placed under this contract. Ordering Officers have no authority to modify any term of this basic contract. Any deviation from the terms of the basic contract must be approved in writing by the Contracting Officer responsible for this contract.

The Contractor shall accept orders against this contract only from the Contracting Officer and/or authorized ordering officers. Fulfilling orders from persons other than the Contracting Officer or ordering officer may result in loss or delay in payment for supplies/services provided under such orders.

Non-authorized VA employees and private agencies (e.g., nursing homes) are not considered authorized to place transportation requests.

4.5.1.2.1. All patient pick-up(s) and drop-off(s) shall be authorized via “orders” which shall only be issued by the designated Ordering Officers. When placing orders for services, the Ordering Officer shall contact the designated contractor point of contact(s) to provide the following information:

Mode of transportation required, Required time of arrival Name of the beneficiary, Pick-up and delivery point, Type and number of additional medical care specialists required, Type of equipment required, Last four of the patient's Social Security Number, and Any other special instructions

4.5.1.3. For ALL Transports – an Audit system will be put in place by the VA to include the COR or designee, Beneficiary Travel Department staff, and clinical staff to ensure appropriateness of the order and timeliness of the response.

4.5.1.4. The type of transportation service (Stretcher Transports, BLS, ALS, CCT) required will be discussed and determined by VA clinical personnel and the contractor. The contractor shall transport the patient per its policies and standard industry practice. If the type of transportation service differs from what was agreed upon by the VA and contractor, the contractor shall submit documentation to the VA explaining its rationale.

4.5.1.5. The VA may authorize an escort (e.g., spouse, relative, guardian, etc.) to accompany the patient during medical transport if it is practicable and, in the patient’s, best interest. The contractor shall allow the escort to accompany the patient at no additional cost.

4.5.1.6. The contractor shall have sufficient vehicles and personnel to provide services for up to four (4) simultaneous transportation requests. Transports required may be for any mix of Stretcher Transports, BLS, ALS transports.

One of these four simultaneous transports may require CCT capability up to Tier III. If Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System requires ambulance services exceeding four (4) simultaneous transportation requests, the vendor will be offered to provide the services if they have sufficient vehicles/personnel available; but may decline these additional orders if sufficient vehicles/personnel are unavailable.

4.5.1.7. The number of transports under normal operating conditions will typically range from 20-40 transports each weekday and significantly less on weekends and holidays. The number of actual transports may vary throughout the life of the contract.

4.5.1.8. The patient may bring with her or him up to three (3) liters of oxygen.

The contractor shall be responsible for providing adequate and safe storage of the oxygen tanks during transport.

4.5.1.9. Response Times*

4.5.1.9.1. Orders that are scheduled by 7pm local time the day before the required services are defined as scheduled in advance. With the exceptions found below, the contractor shall arrive on time for all orders scheduled in advance.

4.5.1.9.2. Urgent Transport (Originating from VA (Only): The contractor shall be required to provide Ground Ambulance transportation within thirty (30) minutes of order/patient pick up call.

4.5.1.9.3. For all add-ons (not scheduled in advance) transportation requests, with pick up at Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System: The contractor will be allotted up to a sixty (60) minute response time from time of order placement for transportation requests that are not previously scheduled in advance.

a. For an urgent transport request for a critical patient (as deemed by the physician) with pick up at Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System, the contractor will be allotted up to a thirty (30) minute response time.

4.5.1.9.4. For transportation requests which do not have a pick-up at Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System:

a. The contractor may be required, if requested by the VA, to dispatch ambulances on short notice for transportation requests not scheduled in advance; for these transportation requests the contractor shall dispatch ambulances within thirty

(30) minutes of receiving the order.

b. Pick-up appointment times shall be agreed upon by the VA and contractor at time of order placement and be reasonable based upon travel distance, speed limits, and weather conditions.

c. The contractor’s patient pick-up time cannot be more than 15 minutes prior to the schedule pickup time nor 15 minutes later than the scheduled pickup time for transportation requests scheduled in advance.

* The contractor shall not be held liable for nonperformance caused by an occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the contractor and without its fault or negligence such as, acts of God or the public enemy, acts of the Government in its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, and unusually severe weather. The contractor MUST notify the VA with as much advance notice as possible should any of these occur.

4.5.2. Cancellations

4.5.2.1. For trips in which the contractor is notified of cancellation before the vehicle is dispatched, there shall be no charge to the Government.

4.5.2.1.1. A “no show” is defined as a transportation request which is cancelled after the contractor has dispatched a vehicle, the vehicle is enroute, or has arrived at the pick-up location, and there is no longer a requirement for patient transportation. The contractor may request one-way reimbursement for no-shows. No-show reimbursement shall be based upon the base rate for the type of service requested (Stretcher Transports, BLS, ALS, CCT) and the one-way mileage (Stretcher Transports, BLS, ALS, CCT) accrued enroute to the pick-up location at time of cancellation. Mileage for no- show cancellations shall be confirmed by the contractor and reported to the VA as soon as possible from time of cancellation.

4.5.2.2. For transportation requests OUT of Central Alabama Veteran

Healthcare System ONLY – The contractor will immediately dispatch a vehicle upon receipt of the order (including transportation requests in which the destination may change prior to pick up due to the critical condition of the patient). When the contractor is notified of a cancellation prior to arrival at the Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System campus, there shall be no charge to the Government.

4.6. Pick-Up/Drop-Off/Reporting Procedures

4.6.1. Ambulance personnel shall pick up and deliver patients at specified locations

(e.g., front door of Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System). These locations will be specified by VA staff when an order is placed and communicated to the transporting personnel.

4.6.2. When applicable, ambulance personnel shall report to the Veteran Transportation

Service (VTS) Dispatcher or Administrative Officer of the Day (AOD) to (1) announce his/her arrival to pick up and transfer the patient and (2) obtain report of pertinent information regarding the patient’s condition from the primary nurse/physician.

4.6.3. When delivering a patient, ambulance personnel shall give report to the appropriate VA healthcare staff and provide a copy of the run sheet which will be retained by the facility for inclusion to the patient’s medical record.

4.6.4. In cases where ambulance personnel must divert to a local emergency department while performing a VA authorized transport, the contractor’s dispatcher shall notify the VA Beneficiary Travel Department or Administrative Officer of the Day of the patient’s location and status as soon as this information becomes available.

4.7. Patient Welfare

4.7.1. The contractor shall be responsible for the patient’s welfare during transport. The contractor shall be held responsible for patient and/or VA property during transport. Any damaged or lost wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, or personal belongings shall be replaced at the contractor’s expense.

4.7.2. The VA requires the contractor to exercise extreme caution and care in the handling of patients.

4.7.3. If a VA beneficiary being transported declines to be properly secured or removed the securement devices himself/herself, the driver will notify the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) of this fact prior to departure. The contractor is not required to transport any VA beneficiary who refuses to be properly secured while being transported. In the event that the beneficiary refuses to be properly secured, they shall be returned back into the building which they came from.

4.8. Incident Reporting

4.8.1. The contractor shall notify the COR, Requestor, Program Manager, Beneficiary

Travel Department, of any accidents and/or safety problems that occur while the patient is being transported. This notification shall occur within one (1) hour by telephone. A written report of the incident shall be delivered to the COR, Program Manager, or Beneficiary Travel Department, by the close of business of the next working day.

4.8.2. The COR will monitor the service provided. The contractor shall cooperate with the COR in providing information and answering questions in a timely manner.

The contractor shall promptly inform the COR of any complaints received directly from patients. If warranted, the VA may conduct incident investigations and require written response from the contractor within 48 hours of request.

4.9. Invoicing

4.9.1. Base Rate: The ‘Base Rate’ is defined as the first 25 miles of any one-way trip ordered by the VA for each applicable medical facility. For Base Rate pricing, see CLINs 0001, 1001, 2001, 3001, 4001, 0002, 1002, 2002, 3002, 4002, 0003, 1003, 2003, 3003, 4003, 0004, 1004, 2004, 3004, and 4004 of the Price/Cost Schedule found in Section B.3.

4.9.2. Mileage Above the 25-mile Base Rate: For one-way trips ordered by the VA which exceed 25 miles, the contractor shall be paid the base rate for the first 25 miles and the mileage rate for each mile in excess of 25 miles. For Mileage Rate pricing, see CLINs 0005, 1005, 2005, 3005, and 4005 of the Price/Cost Schedule found in Section B.3.

4.9.3. Each transport shall include an initial thirty- minute grace period of wait time. In addition, the government is afforded an additional grace period of seven (7) minutes for each additional fifteen (15) minutes of waiting since the Price Schedule authorizes the contractor to invoice for wait time in fifteen (15) minute increments. Wait time shall begin only after the contractor has both reached the pick-up address location and the appointment time has elapsed. As expressed above, the contractor shall itemize and invoice for wait time in fifteen (15) minute increments. However, for partial fifteen (15) minute increments, zero (0) to seven

(7) minutes shall be rounded down to zero (0) minutes, while wait times of eight

(8) to fifteen (15) minutes shall be rounded up to fifteen (15) minutes. Wait time that is caused by the contractor’s error, avoidable delays, or some other such reason that is within the contractor’s control will not be billable to the government.

Thus, for example, where the contractor has arrived for pick-up/drop-off but through no fault of its own waits 47 minutes for the VA beneficiary, and where the contract’s ordering and authorization requirements have been met, the contractor may invoice for 15 minutes of wait time since the VA is afforded an initial 30 minute ‘grace period’ as described herein and since the 17 minutes of billable ‘wait time’ are rounded down to 15 minutes. Alternatively, had the contractor waited 38 minutes, and where the contract’s ordering and authorization requirements have otherwise been met, the contractor may invoice for 15 minutes of wait time. See another wait time example below:

‘Wait Time’ Example:

2:00 PM EST: Contractor arrives to pick up Veteran Beneficiary after receiving an order issued properly by the Government under the term so the contract.

2:30 PM EST: Contractor has now waited 30 minutes, but the veteran beneficiary is late.

Under the terms of the contract, the government is afforded an initial grace period of 30 minutes of wait time. This means that the contractor may not invoice for ‘wait time’ for this initial 30 minutes of waiting.

2:37 PM EST: The veteran beneficiary arrives. Pursuant to the terms of the contract, the contractor may not invoice for any wait time since the government is permitted an initial grade period of 30 minutes of wait time and since the contract specifies that wait times of 7 minutes or less are rounded down to zero. Had the veteran beneficiary arrived at 2:38 PM EST, then subject to the ordering and authorization procedures of the contract, the contractor could then bill for one 15-minute increment of waiting time.”

4.9.4. When invoicing for mileage, the contractor shall round to the nearest mile.

Mileage ending in .5 or higher shall be rounded up to the nearest mile. Mileage ending in .4 or lower shall be rounded down to the nearest mile. Payment for mileage to or from the point of care shall be limited to the VA’s calculation according to the VA’s Bing Maps API determination. Bing Maps API is optimized to determine mileage based on the shortest time of travel.

4.9.5. Long Distance Mileage — Payment for mileage outside the contract miles covered in the base rate, shall be at the mileage rate stated in the price schedule, and shall be based upon the miles from the pick-up point and the specified destination. Any mileage from the place of business and/or location of vehicle and the pick-up point, or from the delivery destination back to the place of business and/or location of next trip are not considered as a separate item of this reimbursement but would be expected to be incorporated into the mileage rate as part of the administrative costs (or costs of doing business).

4.9.6. Upon notification of the contracting officer, the vendor must receive training and begin implementation of invoices via Vet Ride within 30 days versus VA Tungsten Network e-Invoicing network. Invoices must be submitted via the electronic HCFA 1500 in the VetRide Vendor Portal or other VA approved software. These invoices shall not include patient information, but shall include the following:

Contractor Name Contract Number Current Purchase Order Number Date of service Total amount invoiced including a summary of the total number of charges that align with the line items of this contract (i.e., total number of BLS Base Rate, total BLS Mileage incurred, etc.)

An itemized list of charges or services rendered that align with the line items of this contract (i.e., BLS Base Rate, BLS Mileage incurred, etc.)

Payment by VA under this contract to a provider of ground ambulance transportation services authorized under this contract extinguishes any and all liability on the part of the VA BENEFICIARY for that transportation service. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE VA BENEFICIARIES, THIRD PARTY

INSURANCES, MEDICARE, OR MEDICAID TO BE BILLED FOR THE SERVICES

PERFORMED UNDER THIS CONTRACT.

5. Period & Place of Performance

5.1. This contract’s ordering period shall be effective from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2031.

5.2. The Place of Performance is variable and may occur within the states of

Alabama and Georgia. Ambulance services may be required to or from locations including, but not limited to the following:

5.2.1. Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System, to include specific Atrium Clinics, Emergency Department, pavilions, or out-buildings on the Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System campus. The Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System address is: 215 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, Alabama 36109.

5.2.2. Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System Community-Based Outpatient Clinics

(CBOCs):

CBOC Name Address Monroeville CBOC 159 Whetstone St. Monroeville, AL Dothan VA Clinic 3753 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL Wiregrass CBOC 301 Andrews Ave., Fort Rucker, AL

Fort Benning VA Clinic 6635 Bass Road, Ft. Benning, GA Columbus Downtown Clinic 2100 Comer, Ave, Columbus, GA

5.2.3. Other VA Medical Centers, Hospitals, or CBOCs within Veterans Integrated

Service Network (VISN) 07 including, but not limited to:

Medical Center Name: Address:

CAVHCS East 2400 Hospital Road, Tuskegee, AL CAVHCS West 215 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL

Robert S. Poydasheff VA Clinic 6910 River Road, Columbus, GA Montgomery VA Medical Center 8105 Veteran Way, Montgomery Al

5.2.4. Other Non-VA Medical facilities and Community Care facilities as authorized by the VA.

5.2.5. Veteran’s residence.

5.2.6. Local airport: Montgomery Regional Airport: 4445 Selma Highway, Montgomery

AL.

6. Quality Control Plan

6.1. Quality Control

6.1.1. The contractor shall maintain a Quality Control Plan (QCP) that contains, at a minimum, the following:

6.1.1.1. A description of the company’s organizational structure including a description of the roles and responsibilities of management and supervisors.

6.1.1.2. A description of the methods to be used by the contractor for identifying and preventing deficiencies or problems in the quality of service.

6.1.1.3. A description of the specific steps the contractor will take for corrective action if needed if a deficiency or problem in the quality of service occurs.

6.1.1.4. A description of the company’s records and tracking system used to identify up-to-date background checks, applicable certifications and tests, and training of each employee performing services under this contract.

6.1.1.5. A description of the method used to provide on-time ambulance services to meet the requirements of this contract (24/7 availability and up to 4 simultaneous transports in accordance with PWS 4.5.1.6).

6.1.1.6. A description of the methods used to identify and prevent radio communication breakdowns and a detailed procedure for alternative communications in the event of electronic and mechanical breakdown of vehicle two-way radios.

6.1.1.7. CONTENGENCY PLAN: (In case VetRide Vendor Portal is down) A description of the method/system used to log all requests for service. The contractor shall confirm that the log indicates the date and time of service call, actual time of pick-up versus the scheduled time, name of patient requiring services, designated pick-up and delivery points, mileage, and actual waiting time at pick-up and delivery points if waiting charges are claimed. The contractor shall confirm the log will be sent to the COR monthly.

6.1.2. The Government will evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract to ensure that the contractor’s QCP is adequate, and that quality is achieved through a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

6.1.3. The Government shall prepare a QASP after contract award derived from the

PWS and contractor’s submitted quality control plan. The QASP is a “living document” and the Government may review and revise it at any time. However, the Government shall coordinate changes to the QASP with the contractor.

6.1.4. The QASP will specify the work requiring surveillance and the Government’s method of surveillance.

6.2. Minimum Performance Standards

6.2.1. The contractor shall maintain performance standards in accordance with the standards outlined in the table below. Failure to meet the Acceptable Quality Levels (AQL) may result in termination of the contract.

6.2.2. The QASP will include the standards below as well as others derived from the successful offeror’s quality control plan.

Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

(Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System )

Contract: Ground Ambulance Date/Time of Inspection:

Government POC Primary: Tommy Hardin Jr.

Government POC Alternate: Marlin Watson

Organization:

Central Alabama Veteran Healthcare System

Location: 215 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL

SS Performance Objective

PWS

Para

Performanc e Threshold

Method of Surveillance Met Not

Met Remarks

SS

The contractor shall provide Ambulance service, 24 hours per day, 365 days per year, 1 95% Compliance

100% Surveillance of each

SS Performance Objective

PWS

Para

Performanc e Threshold

Method of Surveillance Met Not

Met Remarks as required in accordance with the terms and conditions contained herein.

patient pick-up.

SS

The objective of Standards for Maintenance is to protect veterans and to cause no harm to all parties. The contractor shall maintain all vehicles in a clean and orderly condition, free from debris and accumulation which may create an accident, injury, or fire hazard.

4.4.3 95% Compliance

100%

SS

The contractor shall maintain (and furnish upon request) procedures that outline preventive maintenance and/or repairs on each vehicle in an individual vehicle file and in chronological order, latest service on top. A statement from the Contractor indication compliance of vehicle maintenance files is in place should be submitted at time of offer for evaluation purposes. Requested submission and verification of these documentation requirements will be a quality assurance procedure during the contract period.

4.4.3 95% Compliance

The contractor shall furnish qualified personnel as required by contract specifications to accomplish all services under this contract.

4.3.1 100% Compliance

Have completed training in accordance with the

4.4.7.

100% Compliance

SS Performance Objective

PWS

Para

Performanc e Threshold

Method of Surveillance Met Not

Met Remarks standards published by the Department of Health and Human Services with a minimum curriculum of 150 hours or equivalent including an in-hospital training period. Such training programs must also be acceptable under the regulating requirements for local EMS Systems supported by DHHS under PL 93-154, Federal Register 39:24304. (1974).

SS

A licensed MTO shall ensure that sanitation procedures are provided to all personnel in a written document that conforms with current standards as set forth in occupational safety and health administration-blood borne pathogens protocol.

Attac hmen t B 100%

Compliance

Scheduled patient pick-ups shall not deviate more than 15 minutes past scheduled pick-up time for scheduled orders

4.5.1.

97% Customer

Feedback

The contractor shall notify the Program Manager, Beneficiary Travel Department, of any accidents and/or safety problems that occur while the patient is being transported.

This notification shall occur within one (1) hour by telephone. A written report of the incident shall be delivered to the Program Manager, Benefits Management,

4.8 97% Customer Feedback

SS Performance Objective

PWS

Para

Performanc e Threshold

Method of Surveillance Met Not

Met Remarks by the close of business of the next working day.

SS

Provide a monthly invoice including secondary documentation in accordance with Section

4.9 of the PWS

4.9 95%

100% inspection of monthly invoices/re ports

7. COVID-19 Or Other Similar Infectious Diseases

7.1. Contractor shall not refuse transports of COVID-19 positive or other similarly infected patients.

7.2. Contractor shall abide by all additional procedures and precautions that may be implemented by the VA based on VA-issued guidance and/or CDC recommendations.

These procedures are subject to change throughout the life of the contract and will be incorporated via attachment (See S03 VTS Patient Transport PPE and Vehicle Cleaning/Disinfection SOP).

7.3. Contractor shall have written policy of steps they will take to prevent the spread of COVID-19 or other similarly infectious diseases by their employees and/or vehicles. This policy shall, at a minimum, include procedures for screening drivers before each shift, deliberate decontamination of their vehicles and all other preventative precautions taken by Contractor employees.

7.4. Contractor shall furnish all required PPE throughout the life of the contract.

8. Conformity To Regulations

8.1 The contractor and his/her operators shall conform to all Federal, State, and local…