36C25520R0016-001.docx

36C25520R0016

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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.

DUNS:

DUNS+4:

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. 2/2012)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

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

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

36C25520R0016 01/07/2020 Condiff, Jason; Jason.Condiff@va.gov 913-946-1114 01-01-2021 36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 15 3450 S 4th Street Trafficway Leavenworth KS 66048 X Y 623110 $30 Million N/A X

36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 15 3450 S 4th Street Trafficway Leavenworth KS 66048

36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp Austin TX 877-353-9791 512-460-5429 X See CONTINUATION Page Provide Community Nursing Home Care Services to the Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 15. This is an open and continuous solicitation. The VA anticipates awarding multiple single award Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts as a result of this solicitation.

Contractor shall provide all facilities, space, equipment, services, supplies, administration, manag e ment, materials, furnishings, insurance and labor, including but not limited to general/non-professional, para-professional, technical, technical and professional, necessary to provide Nursing Home Care Services to VISN 15 VA Medical Centers and their Beneficiaries IAW the terms and conditions, Performance Work Statement and attachments Herein.

VISN 15 catchment area includes parts of Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky.

Solicited offers may be received at any time during the open period. The servicing VA Medical Centers will determine if requirements exist. Offers may be solicited by Contracting Officers for specific requirements.

$0.00 See CONTINUATION Page This Solicitation is not funded. Resulting contracts for services will be funded at the time of award.

Payments will be made using the 1358 Payment Process.

X X Jason Condiff

VA-VHA-SAOC-2018-B02E56F0

Table of Contents

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 36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 15 3450 S 4th Street Trafficway Leavenworth KS 66048

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

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted 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.

Department of Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp Austin TX

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

This is an IDIQ Solicitation for the period from 01012020 to 12312020, in accordance with FAR 16.7. A contract is formed, in accordance with the terms and conditions of this agreement, when VA agrees to place a patient in the nursing home and the nursing home agrees to accept the patient. Upon acceptance by the contractor of beneficiaries of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), all terms and conditions of this agreement shall apply during such time as a VA patient remains in that nursing home at the expense of VA.

Upon acceptance of a VA patient by the nursing home, when requested by the Contracting Officer or authorized representative, the contractor shall furnish all supplies and services herein described, at the per diem rates for the levels of care specified below. VA levels of care are defined in Section E of this agreement. VA is obligated only to the extent authorized placements of patients are made under this agreement.

B.2 RATE DETERMINATION

The per diem rate is established by the current Medicaid rate for Medicaid approved nursing homes plus a fair market amount (percentage) to cover the cost of supplies, services, and equipment above that provided under Medicaid established by the local state Medicaid agency (SMA). Rates established after the effective date of this contract will constitute a modification to the contract.

VA will use Medicaid rates for room, board, and routine nursing care.

For all levels of nursing care a percentage is added for routine ancillary services/supplies, such as drugs, nursing supplies, oxygen (occasional use), x-ray, laboratory, physician visits, and rental equipment.

Special equipment, e.g. clinitron bed, are not considered routine ancillary services (and may be provided by the VA).

Drug costs which comprise more than eight and one-half percent (8.5%) of the per diem rate are generally not considered routine ancillary supplies (and may be provided by the VA).

Ancillary costs are pre-approved costs for supplies or services not identified as included in the all-inclusive rate or any other pre- authorized rate or schedule or payment for items or services provided under this agreement. Ancillary costs such as medications, and special equipment, may not be added to any invoice without written permission of the VA medical center placing the veteran. If permission is received, the nursing home must also submit the physician's order for the medication/supply, the dispensing log, the supplier and the cost charged by the supplier to the nursing home, and what the nursing home is charging the VA.

Rehabilitation therapies will be provided as a distinct level of care. Hospice Care and Dialysis are not included in the rate. VA or other payers may be used for Hospice and Dialysis, as determined by the veteran with VA approval.

B.3 ORAL MEDICATIONS

Oral medications, which comprise more than 8.5% of the per diem rate on a monthly basis, are excluded from that rate. High drug costs will be determined or priced using the Average Wholesale Price (AWP) of the drugs plus a transaction fee of 3% per month. All calculations will be made on a monthly basis. When a high cost drug patient is identified, VA staff must be advised promptly to establish an appropriate course of action, which may include the provision of the medications by VA.

B.4 PRICE SCHEDULE

BASE PERIOD: TBD at Award of IDIQ.

(See Section D.1 DEPT. OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) COMMUNITY NURSING HOME PROGRAM LEVEL OF CARE – DESCRIPTIONS for Medicare 66 RUG-IV Codes by Group) Medicaid Daily Rate (Base Index) Offer Plus % (fixed-price factor and is the Price Adjusting Index) Unit Of Measure Offer Calculated Daily Rate

Enter Medicaid Rate here, current as of the date of offer.

(ES3) Trach & Ventilator / Respirator (ES2) Trach or Ventilator / Respirator (ES1) Isolation for infectious disease (note 3)

Ultra-high Rehab, Very-high Rehab, High Rehab, Medium Rehab, Low Rehab

Ultra-high Rehab + Ext Svc, Very-high Rehab + Ext Svc, High Rehab + Ext Svc, Medium Rehab + Ext Svc, Low Rehab + Ext Svc (note 3)

* Includes all Hospice-related Supplies, Services and Medications.

** Room and board @ Appropriate Care Level is added to this rate.

Note 1: The Per Diem price for CNH services CLIN in the Price Schedule is determined by combing the CNH facility’s current state Medicaid daily Skilled Nursing Home (SNF) rate to a Plus Percentage (Plus %) of the Medicaid rate. The Per Diem shall cover the cost of routine ancillary services and supplies. If the Per Diem price includes a discount off Medicaid rate, the Plus % shall be entered as a negative, e.g. -.03%, to indicate such discount. Important – The Plus % is the Fixed-Price Portion of the Price Schedule and remains constant throughout the life the agreement, including the Base Year and any Exercised Option Years.

The Per Diem price for each CLIN is determined as above. Example: If the CNH facility’s State Medicaid Rate is $25.00 per day, and the CNH facility offers a Plus % of 3% of the that rate, the Per Diem price would be calculated as shown: ($25.00 x 0.03 = $0.75), then ($25.00 + $0.75 = $25.75 Per Diem). In the case of a discount off Medicaid, where a CNH facility offers Medicaid Less 3%, the calculation example would be: ($25.00 x 3% = $0.75), then ($25.00 - $0.75 = $24.25). The numbers and percentages in these examples are used as mathematical examples only and shall not be construed as realistic or anticipated pricing.

Note 0001A: This amount represents a portion (8.5%) of the Per Diem derived in accordance with Note 1 above. The Contractor is responsible for this amount of medications and is covered in the Per Diem price. Medications actual costs over this amount may be invoiced and shall be accompanied by copies of pharmacy invoice. The Contractor shall not “mark-up” medications costs charged by their pharmacy provider with any profit or overhead.

Example: If the Per Diem equals $100.00 per day, and a beneficiary’s administered medications cost is $10.00 for that day, then the amount payable to the Contractor for per diem and medications equals $101.50, as shown: ($100.00 x 0.085 = $8.50), then ($10.00 - $8.50 = $1.50), then ($100.00 + $1.50 = $101.50).

Note 2: CLIN 2 will be actual medications costs incurred above 8.5% as described in Note 0001A for administered medications. This CLIN will be invoiced as a separate item and may be paid by the VA. (see Sections B.1 (1.11 and 1.12) and B.5 (5.13) Medications for information). The VA may opt to provide medications itself in lieu of requesting contractor-provided medications and reimbursing for those. The VA’s provision of medications may be packaged in a like manner as if the medication was provided at the VAMC, including but not limited to: bottles, foil or blister package as per VAMC standard practices.

Note 3: Sub-CLIN 0001F, Extensive Services. If these services are not provided by the offeror, enter “Not Provided”. If only one (1) or two (2) are provided clearly identify which are or are not provided. Sub-CLIN 0001H, Rehab Plus Extensive Services - if Sub-CLIN 0001F is not a provided service, 0001F must be indicated as “Not Provided”. If Extensive Services are not provided and Sub-CLIN 0001H is indicated with price information, a request for verification of ability to provide Sub-CLIN 0001H will be made.

OPTION YEAR 1 PERIOD: TBD at Award of IDIQ. See note 1 above. Plus % remains constant and applicable to this Option Year if option is exercised.

OPTION YEAR 2 PERIOD: TBD at Award of IDIQ. See note 1 above. Plus % remains constant and applicable to this Option Year if option is exercised.

OPTION YEAR 3 PERIOD: TBD at Award of IDIQ. See note 1 above. Plus % remains constant and applicable to this Option Year if option is exercised.

OPTION YEAR 4 PERIOD: TBD at Award of IDIQ. See note 1 above. Plus % remains constant and applicable to this Option Year if option is exercised.

B.5 ECONOMIC PRICE ADJUSTMENT

This provision does not apply to ancillary services that may be added or deleted from the agreement.

The per diem rate(s) will apply throughout the term of this contract, including extension period(s). The rate(s) may be adjusted only to reflect a change in a Medicaid rate as authorized by the SMA. Normally, this will be on an annual basis. The negotiated percentage above the Medicaid rate, to cover the all-inclusive nature of the contract, will not be renegotiated; but will be applied and added to the new Medicaid rate for the adjusted per diem rate for each level of care item. This clause does not apply to rates for non-Medicaid nursing homes. In this regard, new rates will be negotiated requiring a modification to the contract. Each per diem price adjustment under this clause is subject to the following limitations:

Any adjustment shall be limited to the effect of increases or decreases in the approved SMA's patient care components within the affected Medicaid groups.

Adjustments will occur no more frequently than those issued by the SMA.

No adjustments will be made until the Contracting Officer receives an SMA authenticated copy of the new rate, signed and dated in a conspicuous area at the top right of the document by the authorized nursing home official. Within ten days after this occurs, the Contracting Officer will execute an approval signature and date at the approximate location of the nursing home official's signature, the action of which will serve as the effective date of the adjusted rate. A copy of the fully executed document will be sent to the nursing home official for record keeping purposes.

36C25520R0016

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B.6 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

A. Overview

1. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) – Indefinite Delivery Contract (IDC). In accordance with FAR 16.504, Indefinite-Quantity Contracts, this is an IDC for the time period from the “Award Date” for one (1) base year with four (4) options to renew to be exercised at the sole discretion of the Government.

2. Services Rendered at VA Per Diem Rates. Upon acceptance of a VA patient by the CNH, when requested by the VA Contracting Officer or authorized representative, the Contractor shall furnish all supplies and services herein described, at the per diem rates for the ”Levels of Care” specified in the Schedule of Items of this IDC. The VA “Levels of Care” are defined in Section E of the solicitation and the IDC. VA is obligated only to the extent authorized placement of patients is made in accordance with this IDC. Care and visits shall be at the same frequency and quality as that provided to non-VA (commercial) patients in the same CNH facility receiving the same or comparable level of care, with the addition of VA-specific requirements outlined herein.

3. Ordering. Orders will be issued by Contracting Officer Representatives (COR) to place Veterans in Nursing Homes, often on a sole source basis using an Exception to Fair Opportunity and utilizing the CPRS system at VA hospital sites (Reference FAR 16.505 (b)(2)(i)(B)). Task Order’s will be issued by Contracting Officer in accordance with contract clause 52.216-18 Ordering (Oct 1995). Only after the Task Order has been issued/executed by the Contracting Officer may the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) designated below place Veterans in the Nursing Home.

Ordering Officer/COR to place Veterans in Nursing Homes only if Task Order has been issued by Contacting Officer.

COR Contact information is as follows:

COR Name:

Address

Telephone number

E-mail address

Facsimile number

a. Contracting Officer Representative (COR) is required to provide a monthly expenditure report to the respective Contracting Officer/Contract Specialist and maintain an ordering officer order register/delivery log as required by VA PPM 2016-02.

b. Agency task and delivery order ombudsman (see 16.505(b)(8)) if multiple awards may be made.

B. Background/Introduction. The Community Nursing Home (CNH) program is a key component of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) continuum of care. The Contractor agrees to provide in accordance with the terms and conditions stated herein to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [MEDICAL CENTER TBD] Health Care System, in [CITY AND STATE TBD] at the prices specified in the section titled Schedule of Items of this IDC. Nursing home facilities in the CNH program shall cooperate with VA staff in referral of appropriate veterans for care and accept veterans of which they have the capability/capacity to care. The term, “facilities,” shall include but not be limited to rooms, wards, sections, eating areas, drinking fountains, entrances, and other like areas. VA shall have the right to inspect the CNH and all appurtenances by authorized VA representative(s) to ensure that acceptable standards are maintained and that the necessary care to maintain the well-being of the patient is rendered.

C. Requirements

1. General. Nursing home facilities in the CNH program shall ensure that care meets the health needs and promotes the maximum well-being of VA patients. The contractor is required to follow Medicare/Medicaid standards for all VA placements. Nursing home care will be furnished to ensure the total medical, nursing, and psychosocial needs of VA beneficiaries. All nursing home facilities in VA’s CNH program must have current Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) certification (Medicare and/or Medicaid) and a State nursing home license. VA developed quality of care standards utilizing CMS inspection criteria that are followed by VA in its selection of nursing homes which includes exclusionary criteria on which the CNH is evaluated. VA often has a need for specialty care services in the CNH program. The VA requires CNHs to have bed capacity to ensure their ability to take referrals when requested. The CNH also must be able to accept VA referrals in a timely fashion (ideally within 24 hours of request). Provider visits will be available at the rate of one (1) visit per month. Laboratory, x-ray, and other special services will be available to VA patients as needed. In addition, the care provided will include room, meals, nursing care, and other services or supplies commensurate with the VA-authorized level of care, without extra charge. Duly authorized representatives of VA will provide quality oversight visits to veterans placed to assure continuity of care and to assist in the veterans’ transition back into the community. These visits do not substitute nor relieve the CNH in any way of the responsibility for the daily care and medical treatment of the veteran. The per diem rate(s) established in this IDC will include the cost of primary medical care, one (1) provider visit per month and needed consultation, drugs and routine supplies, laboratory, x-ray, and other special services authorized by VA, unless otherwise specifically excepted (see Schedule of Items in this IDC for details regarding per diem rates and coverage). Full attention shall be given to motivating and educating patients to achieve and maintain independence in the activities of daily living. Every effort shall be made to keep patients ambulatory and to achieve an optimal level of self-care.

2. Termination of Services. VA reserves the right to remove any or all VA patients from the CNH at any time when it is determined to be in the best interest of VA or the patients without additional costs to the Government.

3. VA Authorizations. Authorization for nursing home care will be submitted on VA Form 10-7078, “Authorization and Invoice for Medical and Hospital Services.” Each authorization validity period will be noted on the VA Form 10-7078 with a beginning and end date. Any extension to the original authorization validity period, regardless of the number of days, requires a new VA Form 10-7078.

VA acknowledges that, depending on the availability of resources at specific IDIQ holder facilities at specific times, acceptance of a referral may be commercially impracticable for the IDIQ holder. In that event, the IDIQ holder may decline to accept an authorization. If the IDIQ holder has determined that space is not available and will not accept the Veteran, the CNH program personnel will seek another IDIQ contract and an authorization will be issued when a match is found.

Designated CNH program personnel will issue written authorizations for Veterans to the IDIQ holder. In accordance with FAR 16.505(b)(2)(i)(A) or FAR 16.505(b)(2)(i)(B), VA has determined it is in the best interest of the Veteran to place the individual order without further competition because the need for these services is sometimes urgent, and providing the opportunity to all IDIQ holders or other vendors would result in unacceptable delays in fulfilling that need. Location primarily will be selected based on the Veteran’s needs and proximity to the Veteran’s home

4. Medicare-Based Rates. The Resource Utilization Grouping (RUG) rate(s) will include the cost of medical care, medications, laboratory, x-ray, therapy (ies), and other special services authorized by VA, unless otherwise specifically exempted. VA will contract for appropriate Medicare categories of care using Resource Utilization Groups (RUGs-IV) as a reference. A description of the RUGs-IV systems can be found in 42 CFR Parts 409, et al.

5. Medicare Rate Determination. The per diem rate is established by the current Medicare rate for Medicare- approved nursing homes including the cost of supplies, services, and equipment above that provided under Medicare. Rates established after the Effective Date of this IDC will require a modification to the IDC. The RUGS IV rates include room, board, and routine nursing care, rehabilitation therapy (including physical, speech and occupational therapy), respiratory therapy, oxygen therapy, medical and nursing supplies (including items such as urological and colostomy supplies), most oral medications, most items of durable medical equipment (excluding ventilators), x-rays, and routine laboratory tests (see Schedule of Items in this IDC for details on rates). Any additional requests for payment to the all-inclusive per diem rates must be pre-approved.

6. The CNH’s Minimum Data Set (MDS) Assessment for Medicare: The CNH’s Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment will be completed on the same schedule as the current Medicare MDS-Scheduled assessments, including close of therapy (COT) assessments. Classification changes will be approved by VA, dependent on projection for short-term or long-term residence, and adhering to the most current MDS frequency guidelines from Medicare. The applicable per diem rate will continue until the next assessment. This request should be submitted on the Level of Care Authorization Form provided to the facility. VA will make the determination whether classification changes require readmission to VA. VA staff will audit approximately 20% of the MDS assessments.

The Level of Care classification and associated per diem rates will remain in effect for each placement until and unless one of the following events takes place:

a. Re-hospitalization that may be associated with a change in level of care;

b. Need for more intensive therapy;

c. Significant change in condition; or

d. Classification changes may also occur based on a determination by VA.

7. Primary Medical Coverage. The assigned CNH provider is the primary medical provider during the nursing home stay and is responsible for writing or approving admission and all other orders as soon as the veteran arrives at the CNH. The CNH provider is responsible for general medical care, urgent evaluation and intervention. Provider visits will be according to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines. The assigned nursing home provider will provide timely care following the most current CMS guidelines; arranging 24/7 access for patient care; arranging easy access to VA staff for consultation; providing timely response to calls and arranging for timely provider back-up according to OBRA guidelines (42 CFR 483.40, OBRA Guidelines).

8. Rehabilitation Criteria. All therapy provided under this IDC will be individual therapy, rather than group therapy, unless otherwise ordered by the authorizing VA facility. Therapy may require pre-approval by VA before services are provided. Medical Restorative criteria will be used for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Therapy must be skilled, relate to safety and be restorative according to Medicare criteria.

a. Description of Rehabilitative Therapy. The concept of rehabilitative therapy includes recovery or improvement in function and, when possible, restoration to a previous level of health and well-being. Therefore, evaluation, re-evaluation and assessment documented in the Progress Report should describe objective measurements which, when compared, show improvements in function, or decrease in severity, or justification for an optimistic outlook to justify continued treatment. Covered therapy services shall be rehabilitative therapy services unless they meet the criteria for maintenance therapy requiring the skills of a therapist.

b. Evaluations/re-evaluations should consider the following: Establishment of treatment goals specific to the patient’s disability or dysfunction and designed to specifically address each problem identified in the evaluation; design of a plan of care addressing the patient’s disorder, including establishment of procedures to obtain goals, determining the frequency and intensity of treatment; continued assessment and analysis during implementation of the services at regular intervals; instruction leading to establishment of compensatory skills; selection of devices to replace or augment a function (e.g., for use as an alternative communication system and short-term training on use of the device or system); and patient and family training to augment rehabilitative treatment or establish a maintenance program. Education of staff and family should be ongoing.

9. Emergency Care; Financial Responsibility; Advanced Directives. In emergencies, nursing home staff will utilize the 911 local emergency systems as for any resident. Advance directives or living wills shall be adhered to according to CNH physician’s orders. When private hospitalization or emergency services are required, the patient, spouse, financial guardian or insurer is financially responsible. Service-connected veterans may qualify for VA coverage of emergency care provided the VA Health Care System (VAHCS) is contacted by the private hospital provider within 72 hours of admission on the first business day following a weekend or holiday. This includes the cost of necessary transportation for such care.

10. HIPAA Compliance. HIPAA compliance is required. The Contractor must adhere to the provisions of Public Law 104-191, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 and the National Standards to Protect the Privacy and Security of Protected Health Information (PHI). As required by HIPAA, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has promulgated rules governing the security and use and disclosure of protected health information by covered entities, including the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In accordance with HIPAA, the Contractor may be required to enter into a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with VA, but VACO has recognized CNH Facilities as an entity that does not require a BAA if they are conducting health care on VA’s behalf. The CNH care program qualifies as a medical service, so no BAA is required.

11. State Licensure; Access to CNH Quality of Care Reports (QASP Indicator #1). The CNH must maintain a current and unrestricted state license to operate as a skilled nursing facility. Changes in the status of the licensure will be immediately reported to the [VA HOSPITALS TBD] VA Home and Community Care Department at [PHONE # TBD]. VA will monitor the professional care and administrative management of services provided to VA beneficiaries under this IDC, through one or any combination of the following methods: reviews of State agencies reports; on-site inspection of the CNH by VA staff; and/or on-site monitoring of VA patients. The CNH shall provide VA with copies of all State agency reports when requested and cooperate fully with VA’s quality improvement or quality assurance program functions relating to this IDC, including VA’s on-site inspection and monitoring. The VA Contracting Officer shall make all final determinations as to the Contractor’s reasonable cooperation with VA and compliance with these requirements.

12. Corrective Action Plan (QASP Indicator #2). The CNH will cooperate with timely development of Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) related to identified deficiencies and related to State, Federal or VA surveys. The CNH will develop in the time period specified by VA timely and appropriate CAPs for VA surveys or investigation of complaints related to quality of care or sentinel events. The CNH will also supply related documents or data as specified by VA. The CAPs will include but are not limited to the following criteria and shall:

a. contain elements detailing how the CNH will correct the deficiency as it relates to the individual;

b. indicate how the CNH will act to protect residents in similar situations;

c. Include the measures the CNH will take or systems that will be altered to ensure that the problem will not recur. The CNH must look at the system and determine if a change to the existing system will work, if a new system is necessary, or if a system does not exist and must be developed;

d. Indicate how the CNH plans to monitor performance to make sure that solutions are permanent. The CNH must develop a quality assurance tool for ensuring that correction is achieved and sustained. This tool must be implemented. Failure to implement a quality assurance tool to sustain compliance will reflect that the CNH has an ineffective quality assurance system; and

e. Provide dates when corrective action will be completed.

13. Life Safety Code. The CNH’s building shall conform to the most recent standards of the Life Safety Code (National Fire Protection Association Standard #101) in effect on the date of the IDC award and compliance with all applicable Federal, State and local regulations. The administrator of the CNH is required to notify the VA Contracting Officer in writing at least thirty (30) calendar days prior to any planned facility changes that could impact the Life Safety Code and other safety features of the facility which were in existence at the time this IDC became effective. The VA Contracting Officer will notify the VA Safety Manager responsible for the Life Safety Code inspection of the CNH and he/she will review (inspect the facility if required) the proposed changes and provide necessary approval or disapproval of the CNH to house veterans during and/or after the proposed changes. These changes may include but are not limited to:

a. Interior changes requiring VA approval. Some examples of facility changes that require the VA Contracting Officer notification are as follows: interior finish, corridor partitions/walls, patient room doors, linen or trash chutes, exits, emergency lighting, fire alarm systems, automatic sprinklers, smoke barrier walls or doors, oxygen systems, compressed gas storage, HVAC, electrical and fuel gas systems;

b. Automatic sprinkler system. All VA contracted CNH facilities are to be fully-equipped with a fully-automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) standards and be 100% sprinklered;

c. Natural disasters. In the event of a natural disaster (flood, tornado, etc.), the CNH shall communicate all action plans to VA. The action plans will at a minimum identify temporary transfers of location, dates, and names of veterans transferred; and

d. Major construction; additions; and renovations. Major construction including building additions or other renovations which may affect physical plant integrity; SHALL MEET latest NFPA 101 Life/Safety Code requirements as well as any additional VA CNH construction standards in place at the time of renovation or alteration.

14. Acceptable Safety and Sanitation Practices. Acceptable safety and sanitation practices shall be observed throughout the facility. The CNH will address employee and patient safety practices through staff orientation, training and adherence to related policy or procedures to provide a safe and clean environment. The building shall conform to the standards of the Life Safety Code (National Fire Protection Association Standard #101) in effect on the date of contract award.

15. Re-admission to the VA Hospital and Emergency Care; Notification of Death of Veterans; CNH Responsibility to Veteran’s Belongings or Personal Effects (QASP Indicator #3). VA beneficiaries who begin to require more than the level of care authorized by VA will be readmitted to an appropriate VA facility, as determined and authorized by VA.

a. When such an admission is not feasible because of the nature of the emergency, hospitalization in a non-Federal facility may be accomplished provided VA authorization is obtained. VA authorization must be obtained within 72-hours of admission of the patient to a non-Federal facility and notice of any veteran death within 24-hours or immediately the first business day after a weekend or holiday. If hospitalization of a non-emergency nature is required, readmission to a VA Medical Center may be accomplished as soon as the patient’s condition is sufficiently stabilized to permit admission to a VA Medical Center.

b. In the event of a death of any veteran, the Contractor agrees to notify VA immediately of the death. In the event a death of a VA beneficiary while receiving nursing home care under this IDC, the CNH will promptly notify the VA facility which authorized admission and immediately assemble, inventory, and safeguard the patient’s personal effects. The funds, deposits, and effects left by the VA patients upon the premises of the CNH shall be delivered by the CNH to the person(s) entitled thereto under the laws currently governing the CNH for making disposition of funds and effects left by patients, unless the beneficiary died without leaving a will, heirs or next of kin capable of inheriting.

c. When disposition has been made, the itemized inventory with annotation as to the disposition of the funds and effects will be immediately forwarded to the VA facility authorizing admission. Should a deceased patient leave no will, heirs, or next of kin, his/her personal property and funds wherever located vests in and becomes the property of the United States in trust. In these cases, the CNH will forward an inventory of any such property and funds in its possession to the VA facility authorizing admission and will hold them (except articles of clothing necessary for proper burial) under safeguard until instructions are received from VA concerning disposition. CMS regulations require retention of records for five (5) years when there is no requirement in State law.

16. Leave of Absence (LOA) – Bed-Hold Statement. For re-hospitalizations or therapeutic passes, VA will pay a bed hold. Therapeutic passes will be authorized by the CNH staff based on individual patient needs but are generally limited to two (2) times per month and should be pre-approved. VA will cover bed holds based on the following plan:

1. When deemed appropriate, VA will reimburse the CNH 70% of applicable per diem rate for bed hold not to exceed two (2) days per episode, four (4) days total per month.

1. VA will reimburse according to the prevailing State Medicaid guidelines.

Bed-hold will begin the date the resident leaves the CNH and full per diem will resume on the date of readmission to the CNH. Absences of fifteen (15) consecutive calendar days or more, whether in a VA or in a non-Federal facility require a new authorization agreement. The nursing home is responsible to notify the family if a bed hold is required for a longer period. The family would then make arrangements with the home to hold the bed.

17. Reportable Events (QASP Indicator #4). VA requires CNHs to report to the CNH Coordinator at VA any of the following events within 24-hours or immediately the first business day after a weekend or holiday:

1) Sentinel events;

2) When there is a change of ownership of the CNH;

3) When there is a change of nursing home administrator or Director of Nursing/Director of Nursing Service;

4) substantiated allegations of mistreatment, neglect, abuse or misappropriation of CNH veterans or property;

5) Elopements of CNH veterans pursuant to state regulations;

6) Infectious outbreaks;

7) Resident to resident or resident to staff altercations involving a CNH veteran resulting in any injury that is other than minor;

8) Copies of annual surveys or substantiated complaint investigations conducted by a State oversight agency; and

9) Adverse events.

Reporting shall include date of occurrence and patient disposition and outcome.

A sentinel event may include, but is not limited to the following:

1) A fall resulting in death or injury;

2) Elopement resulting in a missing patient;

3) Patient abuse confirmed or under suspicion;

4) A medication error resulting in patient illness or injury;

5) Death or patient injury related to restraint (including side rails) use; or

6) Death related to an unconfirmed or suspicious cause.

When an adverse event occurs involving a CNH Veteran which is not determined to be a Sentinel Event but that the State requires that the occurrence be reported to the State), such event is also to be reported to VA’s CNH program office. Some adverse events, such as minor medication errors without catastrophic outcomes, are managed by the CNH in the context of their quality improvement programs. It is not necessary for nursing homes to report such incidents to the CNH program office.

18. VA Actions Regarding Serious Quality of Care Deficiencies. In cases of serious deficiencies affecting the health or safety of veterans or in cases of continued uncorrected deficiencies, VA will take one or more of the following actions in accordance with the terms and clauses of the IDC and applicable procurement regulations:

a. Increase VA staffing monitoring until the State survey agency clears the deficiency;

b. Suspend placement of veterans in the CNH;

c. Remove or transfer veterans under the IDC from the subject CNH;

d. Not renew the IDC; and/or

e. Terminate the IDC.

19. VA Staff Access to CNH Records (QASP Indicator #5). All medical records concerning the veteran’s care in the CNH will be readily accessible to VA. Upon discharge or the death of a patient, medical records will be retained by the CNH for a period of at least five (5) years following termination of care. Patient records will be maintained in conformance with the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. § 552a). A medical record shall be maintained for each patient, which includes at least the following:

a. VAHCS Referral Package to the CNH:

1. Copy of Physician Orders for Nursing Home Care; CPRS Notes; Discharge Summary including History & Physical information with Medication List; Rehabilitation Progress Notes; and Veteran Demographic Record which includes next of kin information.

2. Copy of Authorization Agreement (VAF 10-7078).

b. Nursing Home Clinical Record: The CNH must maintain clinical records on each veteran in accordance with accepted professional standards and practice. The clinical record must be: complete, accurately documented, readily accessible, systematically organized, and legible. Clinical records must contain at a minimum:

1. Sufficient information to identify the resident;

2. A record of the veteran’s assessments, including those assessments performed by services under the IDC with the CNH;

3. The plan of care and services including medication administration, provided by CNH staff and services provided under the IDC with the CNH;

4. Interdisciplinary progress notes to include effect of care provided, veterans’ response to treatment, change in condition, and changes in treatment;

5. Medical practitioner orders which are signed and dated;

6. Allergies;

7. Person to contact in an emergency;

8. Name of attending medical practitioner; and

9. Advanced directives if available.

c. Clinical Record Safeguards: The CNH must safeguard clinical record information against loss, destruction, or unauthorized use. If the CNH maintains a veteran’s record by computer, electronic signatures are acceptable. If attestation is done on computer records, safeguards to prevent unauthorized access and to provide for reconstruction of information must be in place.

20. Specialty Services. The CNH will assume responsibility for arranging specialty care for veterans (e.g., dental care, podiatry and ophthalmology).

[PARAGRAPH 21 WILL BE TAILORED TO EACH SITE/IDC PRIOR TO AWARD:]

21. VA Health Care System Consultation/Resources.

(a) Telephone Care Communications Systems (TCCS): For urgent same-day outpatient specialty care or for non-urgent scheduled clinic appointments/consultations, (Phone#) between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. If a same-day appointment is anticipated; please call as early as possible.

(b) Admissions Conference Call Systems phone number Phone #:

For non-emergency consultation or /evaluation for admission to the [FACILITY NAME] VA Health Care System (after initial evaluation or intervention by the nursing home physician).

(c) After hours, weekends and holidays: For urgent referrals or consultation contact the Admission Conference Call System number [PHONE # ].

(d) Transportation: Necessary transportation to and from the VA hospital for clinics, evaluation or hospitalization will be arranged and paid by the VA hospital for CNH patients when requested. For Clinic appointments, call [PHONE # ].

The Contractor shall coordinate transportation to and the from VA Appointments – to include the VA Medical Center, VA Outpatient Clinics and Non-VA locations when the appointment is made by the beneficiary’s VA providers. Coordination may be made by making arrangements with the beneficiary family or others, when available and that desire to do so are capable of transporting the beneficiary. Sufficient notification to allow for planning is required. The VA does not insist that transportation be provided by the VA in all cases. If no other means of transportation are available, the VA will be responsive to Contractor requests for transportation to these appointments. Requests shall be made through the Beneficiary Transportation/Travel Clerk at least forty-eight (48) hours prior notification for travel is necessary in order for the Transportation/Travel Clerk to make arrangements in advance for non-emergent needs.

Contractor-owned, leased or contracted vehicle transportation, if utilized, shall be in compliance with applicable state laws and at no additional cost to the Government. CNH personnel’s Personally Owned Vehicle transportation of VA-beneficiaries is specifically prohibited.

22. Charitable Contributions. The CNH will not solicit contributions, donations, or gifts from patients or family members. Note: Established charitable fundraising activities of a CNH fall outside the scope of this language.

23. CNH Billing (QASP Indicator #6). Invoices for board, care and ancillary services shall be submitted promptly to the authorizing facility by the 15th calendar day following the end of the month in which services were rendered. The CNH will promptly notify the VA CNH Coordinator regarding any change in Veteran status: discharge, transfer, against medical advice (AMA), hospitalization, death and/or any changes in payer source and any ability to complete timely billing. All invoices must include the full name and address of the CNH and shall reflect the patient’s name, social security number, number of days billed, RUG category(s), and agreed upon RUG rate (s). Failure to include this information may result in delayed payment. The current CNH Billing Cover Sheet can be obtained from the Care in the Community (CITC) department at [PHONE # ].

a. Pre-approves services billed by CMS procedures or CPT codes: All services which are pre-approved by VA as additional to the all-inclusive per diem rate must be billed according to CMS procedures or CPT codes. The CNH will be reimbursed based on local guidelines and VA pricing schedules.

b. High cost drugs: All requests for additional reimbursement for high cost drugs and corresponding billing are due as soon as possible, but no later than 90 calendar days after use of products.

c. Invoices: Corrected invoices must be submitted for additional payment of any ancillary costs or changes to the original billing. All corrected invoices must include all items that are affected by the change and should include the CNH corrected claim form [available from CITC, Phone#].

24. Minimum Quantities; VA Payment. It is impossible to determine the exact or estimated amount, which will be expended under this IDC. No obligation will be incurred by VA under this IDC, until authorizations are issued for nursing home care of specific beneficiaries. VA agrees to make payment on a timely basis for services rendered in accordance with such authorizations upon receipt of proper invoices submitted by the CNH as outlined in this IDC. VA will make payment for the day a recipient enters the CNH but not the day the recipient leaves a CNH unless entrance and departure are on the same day, then payment will be made for one (1) day.

25. VA Payments. Payments made by VA under any contract pursuant to this IDC, constitute the total cost of nursing home care.