Solicitation Amendment 36C26324Q1181 0005.pdf

5. PROJECT NUMBER (if applicable)

CODE 7. ADMINISTERED BY

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NUMBER

CODE

6. ISSUED BY

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NUMBER 3. EFFECTIVE DATE

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NUMBER

9B. DATED

PAGE OF PAGES

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NUMBER

10B. DATED

BPA NO. 1. CONTRACT ID CODE

FACILITY CODE CODE

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended, by one of the following methods:

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers

E. IMPORTANT:

is extended,

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning __________ copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted; or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR

ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY is not extended.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

(REV. 11/2016)

is required to sign this document and return ___________ copies to the issuing office. is not, A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

15C. DATE SIGNED

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES

SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER

Contractor

16C. DATE SIGNED

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER 16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

STANDARD FORM 30 PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

(Type or print) (Type or print)

(Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

(Number, street, county, State and ZIP Code)

(If other than Item 6)

(Specify type of modification and authority)

(such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.)

(If required)

(SEE ITEM 11)

(SEE ITEM 13)

(X)

CHECK

ONE

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS,

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer)

1 26

0005 01-03-2025

36C263

Department of Veterans Affairs

NETWORK 23 CONTRACTING OFFICE

2501 W. 22nd St.

Sioux Falls SD 57105

Department of Veterans Affairs

NETWORK 23 CONTRACTING OFFICE

2501 W. 22nd St.

Sioux Falls SD 57105

To all Offerors/Bidders

36C26324Q1181

10-22-2024

X

X X

** HOUR & DATE for Receipt of Offers is EXTENDED to:01/13/2025

10:00am CST

See CONTINUATION Page

X 1

Solicitation 36C26324Q1181 for on-call interventional cardiology services at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System is hereby amended to provide questions, answers, and clarification as detailed below.

Offerors are required to acknowledge this amendment which can be done by signing and returning one copy with the quote.

The solicitation closing date is 01/13/2025 at 10:00am Central Time.

Angela Stewart

Contracting Officer

VA-VHA-RPOC=2022-19642

CONTINUATION PAGE

A.1 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

The indefinite delivery indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract guaranteed minimum amount is

$50,000.00 for the lifetime of the contract. The minimum guaranteed amount will be awarded at the time of the contract award via the initial task order for services.

The IDIQ contract maximum ceiling is $2,500,000.00 for the lifetime of the contract.

Quantities listed in the Price/Cost Schedule are estimates only and are not guaranteed to be ordered. Actual quantities on the task order(s) can be less than or greater than the estimated quantities listed based on the Minneapolis VA Health Care System’s requirements and needs.

Only warranted Contracting Officers from the Department of Veterans Affairs Network

Contracting Office 23 may issue task order(s) against the IDIQ contract.

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

ESTIMATED

QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

1,176.00 HR __________________ __________________

Board Certified Eligible Cardiology Physician Services

Weeknight Call Coverage (Monday-Thursday, 5:00pm to 7:00am Central Time) Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 03-01-2025 POP End: 02-28-2026 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists) PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: Q502 - Medical - Cardiology

1,116.00 HR __________________ __________________

Weekend Call Coverage (5:00pm on Friday - 7:00am on Monday Central Time) Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 03-01-2025 POP End: 02-28-2026 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

40.00 HR __________________ __________________

On-Site Interventional Cardiology Procedure Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 03-01-2025 POP End: 02-28-2026 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weeknight Call Coverage (Monday-Thursday, 5:00pm to 7:00am

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

ESTIMATED

QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

Central Time) Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 03-01-2026 POP End: 02-28-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weekend Call Coverage (5:00pm on Friday - 7:00am on Monday Central Time) Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 03-01-2026 POP End: 02-28-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

On-Site Interventional Cardiology Procedure Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 03-01-2026 POP End: 02-28-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weeknight Call Coverage (Monday-Thursday, 5:00pm to 7:00am Central Time) Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 03-01-2027 POP End: 02-29-2028 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weekend Call Coverage (5:00pm on Friday - 7:00am on Monday Central Time) Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 03-01-2027 POP End: 02-29-2028 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

On-Site Interventional Cardiology Procedure Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 03-01-2027

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

ESTIMATED

QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

POP End: 02-29-2028 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weeknight Call Coverage (Monday-Thursday, 5:00pm to 7:00am Central Time) Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 03-01-2028 POP End: 02-28-2029 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weekend Call Coverage (5:00pm on Friday - 7:00am on Monday Central Time) Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 03-01-2028 POP End: 02-28-2029 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

On-Site Interventional Cardiology Procedure Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 03-01-2028 POP End: 02-28-2029 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weeknight Call Coverage (Monday-Thursday, 5:00pm to 7:00am Central Time) Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 03-01-2029 POP End: 02-28-2030 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

Weekend Call Coverage (5:00pm on Friday - 7:00am on Monday Central Time) Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 03-01-2029 POP End: 02-28-2030 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

ESTIMATED

QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

On-Site Interventional Cardiology Procedure Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 03-01-2029 POP End: 02-28-2030 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 621111 - Offices of Physicians (except

GRAND TOTAL __________________

Solicitation 36C26324Q1181 Amendment A00005

Questions, Answers, and Clarification

1. The estimated quantities listed in the Item Information of section B.2 are only estimates.

Actual quantities may differ.

2. Complete and return the following with the quote:

2.1. Section B.1 Contract Administration Data

2.2. Section B.2 with the Item Information completed as requested

2.3. Section D attachments

2.4. Section E.12 Evaluation documentation

3. Solicitation section B.3 Performance Word Statement for Cardiology Physician Services is amended to replaced with the language below.

B.3 Performance Work Statement for Cardiology Physician Services

1.1. Services Provided: The Contractor shall provide Board Certified Physician Services on site in accordance with the specifications contained herein to beneficiaries of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and MVAHCS

1.2. Place of Performance: Contractor shall furnish services at the Minneapolis VA Health Care

System – One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417.

1.3. Authority: Title 38 USC 8153, Health Care Resources (HCR) sharing Authority.

1.4. Policy/Directives/Handbooks. The contractor shall be subject to the following policies, including any subsequent updates during the period of performance. The policies listed below can be accessed electronically at the following: VA Publications VHA Publications

1.4.1. VA Directive 1663: Health Care Resources (HCR) Contracting – Buying Title 38 U.S.C.

1.4.2. VHA Directive 1003.04: VHA Patient Advocacy

1.4.3. VHA Directive 1065: Productivity and Staffing Guidance for Specialty Provider Group

Practice

1.4.4. VHA Directive 1088(1): Communicating Test Results to Providers and Patients

1.4.5. VHA Directive 1100.18: Reporting and Responding to State Licensing Boards

1.4.6. VHA Directive 1100.20: Credentialing of Health Care Providers

1.4.7. VHA Directive 1100.21: Privileging

1.4.8. VHA Directive 1192.01: Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Program for VHA Health Care

Personnel

1.4.9. VHA Directive 1220(1): Facility Procedure Complexity Designation Requirements to

Perform Invasive Procedures in Any Clinical Setting

1.4.10. VHA Directive 1605.01: Privacy and Release of Information

1.4.11. VHA Directive 1907.01: VHA Health Information Management and Health Records

1.4.12. VHA Handbook 1100.17: National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) Reports

1.4.13. Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a) as amended:

http://www.justice.gov/oip/foia_updates/Vol_XVII_4/page2.htm

1.5. Acronyms/Definitions: Terms used in this contract shall be interpreted as follows unless the context expressly requires a different construction and/or interpretation. In case of a conflict in language between the Definitions and other sections of this contract, the language in this section shall govern.

1.5.1. ACGME: Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education

1.5.2. ACLS: Advanced Cardiac Life Support

1.5.3. BLS: Basic Life Support

1.5.4. CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

1.5.5. CEU: Certified Education Unit

https://www.va.gov/vapubs/ https://www.va.gov/vhapublications/index.cfm http://www.justice.gov/oip/foia_updates/Vol_XVII_4/page2.htm

1.5.6. Clinical Privileging: Clinical Privileging is the process by which a practitioner, licensed for independent practice; e.g., without supervision, direction, required sponsor, preceptor, mandatory collaboration, etc.; is permitted by law and the facility to practice independently, to provide specific medical or other patient care services within the scope of the individual’s license, based upon the individual’s clinical competence as determined by peer references, professional experience, health status, education, training and licensure. Clinical privileges must be facility-specific and provider-specific, and within available resources.

1.5.7. CME: Continuing Medical Education

1.5.8. CMS: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

1.5.9. CO: Contracting Officer: The person executing this contract on behalf of the Government with the authority to enter into and administer contracts and make related determinations and findings.

1.5.10. COR: Contracting Officer’s Representative: A person appointed by the CO to take necessary action to ensure the Contractor performs in accordance with and adheres to the specifications contained in the contract and to protect the interest of the Government. The COR shall report to the CO promptly any indication of non-compliance in order that appropriate action can be taken.

1.5.11. COS: Chief of Staff

1.5.12. CPARS: Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System

1.5.13. Credentialing: Credentialing is the process of obtaining, verifying, and assessing the qualifications of a health care provider to provide care or services in or for the VA health care system. Credentials are documented evidence of licensure, education, training, experience or other qualifications.

1.5.14. DEA: Drug Enforcement Agency

1.5.15. EHR: Electronic Health Record - electronic health record system used by the VA

1.5.16. FSMB: Federation of State Medical Boards

1.5.17. FTE: Full Time Equivalent. VA’s standard definition is for full time working the equivalent of

80 hours every two weeks, 2080 hours per year. However, providers may propose using their standard FTE definition.

1.5.18. HHS: Department of Health and Human Services

1.5.19. HIPAA: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

1.5.20. ISO: Information Security Officer

1.5.21. Key Personnel: The individuals specified in this contract who are essential to work performance.

1.5.22. NPI: National Provider Identifier. NPI is a standard, unique 10-digit numeric identifier required by HIPPA. The Veterans Health Administration must use NPIs in all HIPAA-standard electronic transactions for individual (health care practitioners) and organizational entities (medical centers)

1.5.23. POP: Period of Performance

1.5.24. PPD: Purified Protein Derivative

1.5.25. PWS: Performance Work Statement

1.5.26. QA/QI: Quality Assurance/Quality Improvement

1.5.27. QASP: Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

1.5.28. QM/PI: Quality Management/Performance Improvement

1.5.29. VETPro: is VHA’s mandatory credentialing software platform to document the credentialing of VHA health care providers. This system facilitates completion of a uniform, accurate, and complete credentials file.

1.5.30. VHA: Veterans’ Health Administration

1.5.31. VISN: Veterans Integrated Services Network

1.5.32. VistA: Veterans Information Systems Technology Architecture

2. QUALIFICATIONS:

3.1. Staff/Facility

3.1.1. License: The Contractor’s physician(s) assigned by the Contractor to perform the services covered by this contract shall have a current license to practice medicine in any State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States or the District of Columbia when services are performed onsite on VA property.

All licenses held by the key personnel working on this contract shall be full and unrestricted licenses. Contractor’s physician(s) who have current, full and unrestricted licenses in one or more states, but who have, or ever had, a license restricted, suspended, revoked, voluntarily revoked, voluntarily surrendered pending action or denied upon application will not be considered for the purposes of this contract.

3.1.2. Board Certification: All Contractor’s physician(s) shall be Board Certified by the American

Board of Internal Medicine in cardiology http://www.abim.org/, and be currently certified in

Basic Life Support (BLS) Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) or equivalency. All continuing education courses required for maintaining certification must be kept up to date at all times. Documentation verifying current certification shall be provided by the

Contractor to the VA COR on an annual basis for each year of contract performance.

3.1.3. Credentialing and Privileging: Credentialing and privileging is to be done in accordance with the provisions of VHA Directive 1100.20 and VHA Directive 1100.21 referenced above. The Contractor is responsible to ensure that proposed physician(s) possesses the requisite credentials enabling the granting of privileges. No services shall be provided by any Contractor’s physician(s) prior to obtaining approval by the Facility Medical Executive

Board and Medical Center Director.

3.1.3.1. If a Contractor’s physician(s) and/or other contract provider(s) are not credentialed and privileged or has credentials/privileges suspended or revoked, the Contractor shall furnish an acceptable substitute without any additional cost to the government.

3.1.4. Technical Proficiency: Contractor’s physician(s) shall be technically proficient in the skills necessary to fulfill the government’s requirements, including the ability to speak, understand, read and write English fluently. Contractor shall provide documents upon request of the CO/COR to verify current and ongoing competency, skills, certification and/or licensure related to the provision of care, treatment and/or services performed.

Contractor shall provide verifiable evidence of all educational and training experiences including any gaps in educational history for all Contractor’s physician(s) and Contractor’s physician(s) shall be responsible for abiding by the Facility's Medical Staff By-Laws, rules, and regulations (referenced herein) that govern medical staff behavior.

3.1.5. Physical Requirements: The population of male and female veterans served ranges from adult, age 18, to the elderly adult, age 65 and over. The MVAHCS is a major http://www.abim.org/ interdisciplinary teaching facility, serving medical, surgical, and neurological inpatients and outpatients. The following are required to perform the duties of this position:

3.1.5.1. Visual acuity sufficient to accurately observe and assess patient conditions, read medical instruments, and complete required documentation;

3.1.5.2. Auditory capacity to discern and respond to verbal communications and audible medical signals;

3.1.5.3. Verbal communication skills to articulate clearly and effectively in both routine and emergency situations;

3.1.5.4. Manual dexterity and fine motor skills necessary to operate medical equipment and perform required procedures;

3.1.5.5. Physical stamina and mobility to:

3.1.5.5.1. Remain ambulatory or stationary for extended periods;

3.1.5.5.2. Assume various bodily positions including, but not limited to, standing, walking, sitting, stooping, and bending;

3.1.5.5.3. Exert force to move or transfer patients and objects as required to complete duties;

3.1.5.6. Ability to apply physical force in pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying objects or individuals, with or without assistive devices, as necessitated by duties.

3.1.6. Job-related Functions: Contractor’s physician shall be capable of and may be required to perform the following duties:

3.1.6.1. Transfer patients and objects as necessitated by duties, utilizing mechanical inpatient lifts provided by the VA.

3.1.6.2. Work in environments that may involve exposure to:

3.1.6.2.1. Patients with infectious diseases;

3.1.6.2.2. Contaminated materials;

3.1.6.2.3. Situations requiring the use of protective clothing, including but not limited to isolation environments, operative/invasive procedures, or home settings.

3.1.6.3. Interact with patients who may exhibit combative behaviors, potentially resulting from conditions including, but not limited to, delirium, dementia, or psychiatric disorders.

3.1.6.4. Demonstrate the following qualities and capabilities:

3.1.6.4.1. Emotional maturity and stability commensurate with job responsibilities;

3.1.6.4.2. Adaptability to changing work conditions and requirements;

3.1.6.4.3. Sound judgment and decision-making skills in accordance with company policies and procedures;

3.1.6.4.4. Ability to maintain composure, effectiveness, and productivity under high-pressure circumstances or in stressful work environments;

3.1.6.4.5. Capacity to adjust priorities based on patient needs.

3.1.7. Continuing Medical Education (CME)/ Certified Education Unit (CEU) Requirements:

Contractor shall provide the COR copies of current CMEs as required or requested by the facility. Contractor’s physician(s) registered or certified by national/medical associations shall continue to meet the minimum standards for CME to remain current. Contractor shall report CME hours to the credentials office for tracking. These documents are required for both privileging and re-privileging. Failure to provide shall result in loss of privileges for

Contractor’s physician(s).

3.1.8. Training (ACLS, BLS, EHR and VA MANDATORY): Contractor shall meet all VA educational requirements and mandatory course requirements defined herein; all training must be completed by the contractor’s physician(s) as required by the VA. Other training may become required. VA will communicate any changes to the training requirement to the contractor.

Training Frequency Annual Hours

ACLS/BLS Biennial 4 annual hours

Active Threat Training Annual 1 hour

EHR (CPRS and/or Cerner) Once 4 hours

Government Ethics Annual 1 hour

Military Sexual Trauma (MST) for Medical Providers

Once 1 hour

Moderate Sedation In-Service Training

Annual 1 hour

Patient Abuse Annual 1 hour

Patient Rights Annual 1 hour

Patient Safety Annual 1 hour

Prevention/Management of Disruptive Behavior/Violence Prevention Level I

Biennial 1 hour

Prevention of Workplace Harassment/No Fear Act

Annual 1 hour

Suicide Prevention: Suicide Risk Management Training for Clinicians

Annual 1 hour

SUX Infection Control and Blood Borne Pathogens

Annual 1 hour

VA Core Values Training (ICARE Recommitment)

Annual 1 hour

VA Privacy and Information Security Awareness and Rules of Behavior

Annual 1 hour

VHA Privacy and HIPAA Focused Training

Annual 1 hour

3.1.9. STANDARD INFECTION CONTROL MEASURES (PPD, IMMUNIZATIONS, ETC.):

Contractor shall provide proof of the following for physicians within five (5) calendar days after contract award and prior to the first duty shift to the COR and Contracting Officer.

Tests shall be current within the past year.

3.1.9.1. TUBERCULOSIS TESTING: Contractor shall provide proof of a negative

Tuberculosis Skin Test (TST) or interferon-gamma release assays (IGRA) for all

Contractor’s physician(s) upon hire in accordance with CDC guidance. (This is applicable to all health care workers). A negative chest radiographic report for active tuberculosis shall be provided in cases of positive TST or IGRA results.

3.1.9.2. MEASLES, MUMPS, & RUBELLA TESTING: Contractors shall provide proof of immunity for all Contractor physicians {This is applicable to all health care workers}.

3.1.9.3. VARICELLA: Contractors shall provide proof of immunity for all Contractor physicians

{This is applicable to all health care workers}.

3.1.9.4. ACELLULAR PERTUSSIS: Contractors shall provide proof of 1 dose of Tdap vaccination for all Contractor physicians {This is applicable to all health care workers}.

3.1.9.5. INFLUENZA: Contractors shall provide proof that all Contractor physicians have received the annual Influenza vaccine unless it is contraindicated. If the Contractor physician has a medical contraindication to the vaccine they shall be required to wear a mask during the Influenza season.

3.1.9.6. OSHA REGULATION CONCERNING OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS: Contractor shall provide evidence of completing and passing generic self-study blood-borne pathogen training for all Contractor’s physician(s); provide their own Hepatitis B vaccination series and hepatitis B surface antigen test results following the hepatitis B vaccination series; maintain an exposure determination and control plan; maintain required records; and ensure that proper follow-up evaluation is provided following an exposure incident.

3.1.9.7. The facility shall notify the Contractor of any significant communicable disease exposures as appropriate. Contractor shall adhere to current CDC/HICPAC Guideline for Infection Control in health care personnel (as published in American Journal for

Infection Control- AJIC 1998; 26:289-354 http://www.cdc.gov/hicpac/pdf/InfectControl98.pdf for disease control. Contractor shall provide follow up documentation of clearance to return to the workplace prior to their return.

3.1.10. National Provider Identifier (NPI): NPI is a standard, unique 10-digit numeric identifier required by HIPAA. The Veterans Health Administration must use NPIs in all HIPAA-standard electronic transactions for individual (health care practitioners) and organizational entities (medical facilities). The Contractor shall have or obtain appropriate NPI and if pertinent the Taxonomy Code confirmation notice issued by the Centers for Medicare and

Medicaid Services (CMS) National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) be provided to the Contracting Officer with the proposal.

3.1.11. DEA: Contractor shall provide copy of current DEA certificate.

3.1.12. Conflict of Interest: The Contractor and all Contractor’s physician(s) are responsible for identifying and communicating to the CO and COR conflicts of interest at the time of proposal and during the entirety of contract performance. At the time of proposal, the

Contractor shall provide a statement which describes, in a concise manner, all relevant facts concerning any past, present, or currently planned interest (financial, contractual, organizational, or otherwise) or actual or potential organizational conflicts of interest relating to the services to be provided. The Contractor shall also provide statements containing the same information for any identified consultants or subcontractors who shall provide services. The Contractor must also provide relevant facts that show how it’s organizational and/or management system or other actions would avoid or mitigate any actual or potential organizational conflicts of interest. These statements shall be in http://www.cdc.gov/hicpac/pdf/InfectControl98.pdf response to the VAAR provision 852.209-70 Organizational Conflicts of Interest and fully outlined in response to the subject attachment in Section D of the solicitation document.

3.1.13. Citizenship related Requirements:

3.1.13.1. The Contractor certifies that the Contractor shall comply with all legal provisions contained in the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, As Amended; its related laws and regulations that are enforced by Homeland Security, Immigration and

Customs Enforcement and the U.S Department of Labor as these may relate to non-immigrant foreign nationals working under contract or subcontract for the Contractor while providing services to Department of Veterans Affairs patient referrals;

3.1.13.2. While performing services for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Contractor shall not knowingly employ, contract or subcontract with an illegal alien; foreign national non-immigrant who is in violation their status, as a result of their failure to maintain or comply with the terms and conditions of their admission into the United States.

Additionally, the Contractor is required to comply with all “E-Verify” requirements consistent with “Executive Order 12989” and any related pertinent Amendments, as well as applicable Federal Acquisition Regulations.

3.1.13.3. If the Contractor fails to comply with any requirements outlined in the preceding paragraphs or its Agency regulations, the Department of Veterans Affairs may, at its discretion, require that the foreign national who failed to maintain their legal status in the United States or otherwise failed to comply with the requirements of the laws administered by Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the

U.S Department of Labor, shall be prohibited from working at the Contractor’s place of business that services Department of Veterans Affairs patient referrals; or other place where the Contractor provides services to veterans who have been referred by the

Department of Veterans Affairs; and shall form the basis for termination of this contract for breach.

3.1.13.4. This certification concerns a matter within the jurisdiction of an agency of the United

States and the making of a false, fictitious, or fraudulent certification may render the maker subject to prosecution under 18 U.S.C. 1001.

3.1.13.5. The Contractor agrees to obtain a similar certification from its subcontractors. The certification shall be made as part of the offerors response to the RFP using the subject attachment in Section D of the solicitation document.

3.1.14. Annual Office of Inspector General (OIG) Statement: In accordance with HIPAA and the

Balanced Budget Act (BBA) of 1977, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

Office of Inspector General (OIG) has established a list of parties and entities excluded from Federal health care programs. Specifically, the listed parties and entities may not receive Federal Health Care program payments due to fraud and/or abuse of the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

3.1.14.1. Therefore, Contractor shall review the HHS OIG List of Excluded Individuals/Entities on the HHS OIG web site at http://oig.hhs.gov/exclusions/index.asp to ensure that the proposed Contractor’s physician(s) are not listed. Contractor should note that any excluded individual or entity that submits a claim for reimbursement to a Federal health care program, or causes such a claim to be submitted, may be subject to a

Civil Monetary Penalty (CMP) for each item or service furnished during a period that the person was excluded and may also be subject to treble damages for the amount claimed for each item or service. CMP’s may also be imposed against the Contractor that employ or enter into contracts with excluded individuals to provide items or services to Federal program beneficiaries.

http://oig.hhs.gov/exclusions/index.asp

3.1.14.2. By submitting their proposal, the Contractor certifies that the HHS OIG List of

Excluded Individuals/Entities has been reviewed and that the Contractors are and/or firm is not listed as of the date the offer/bid was signed.

3.2. Clinical/Professional Performance: The qualifications of Contractor personnel are subject to review by VA Medical Center COS or his/her clinical designee and approval by the Medical

Facility Director as provided in VHA Directive 1100.20 and VHA Directive 1100.21.

Clinical/Professional performance monitoring and review of all clinical personnel covered by this contract for quality purposes will be provided by the facility COS and/or the Chief of the Service or his designee. A clinical COR may be appointed, however, only the CO is authorized to consider any contract modification request and/or make changes to the contract during the administration of the resultant contract.

3.3. Non Personal Healthcare Services: The parties agree that the Contractor and all Contractor’s physician(s) shall not be considered VA employees for any purpose.

3.4. Indemnification: The Contractor shall be liable for, and shall indemnify and hold harmless the

Government against, all actions or claims for loss of or damage to property or the injury or death of persons, arising out of or resulting from the fault, negligence, or act or omission of the

Contractor, its agents, or employees.

3.5. Prohibition Against Self-Referral: Contractor’s physicians are prohibited from referring VA patients to contractor’s or their own practice(s)

3.6. Inherent Government Functions: Contractor and Contractor’s physician(s) shall not perform inherently governmental functions. This includes, but is not limited to, determination of agency policy, determination of Federal program priorities for budget requests, direction and control of government employees (outside a clinical context), selection or non-selection of individuals for

Federal Government employment including the interviewing of individuals for employment, approval of position descriptions and performance standards for Federal employees, approving any contractual documents, approval of Federal licensing actions and inspections, and/or determination of budget policy, guidance, and strategy.

3.7. No Employee status: The Contractor shall be responsible for protecting Contractor’s physician(s) furnishing services. To carry out this responsibility, the Contractor shall provide or certify that the following is provided for all their staff providing services under the resultant contract:

3.7.1. Workers’ compensation

3.7.2. Professional liability insurance

3.7.3. Health examinations

3.7.4. Income tax withholding, and

3.7.5. Social security payments.

3.8. Tort Liability: The Federal Tort Claims Act does not cover Contractor or Contractor’s physician(s). When a Contractor or Contractor’s physician(s) has been identified as a provider in a tort claim, the Contractor shall be responsible for notifying their legal counsel and/or insurance carrier. Any settlement or judgment arising from a Contractor’s (or Contractor’s physician(s)) action or non-action shall be the responsibility of the Contractor and/or insurance carrier.

3.9. Key Personnel:

3.9.1. The VA Full Time Equivalency (FTE) for the services required is 1 (1176 weeknight coverage hours, 1116 weekend coverage hours, 40 onsite procedure hours)

3.9.2. The minimum number of Board Certified Cardiology physicians required to be on site daily is 1 to be on site at the same time as defined in paragraph Hours of Operation in this section.

3.9.3. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing coverage to the VA during periods of vacancies of the Contractor’s personnel due to sick leave, personal leave, vacations and additional coverage as required. In the event a scheduled physician is unable to complete an assigned shift, the contractor shall provide replacement physician coverage within 2 hours and notify the Contracting Office Representative (COR) immediately of the schedule change.

3.9.4. Personnel Substitutions: During the first ninety (90) calendar days of performance, the

Contractor shall make NO substitutions of key personnel unless the substitution is necessitated by illness, death or termination of employment. The Contractor shall notify the

CO, in writing, within 30 calendar day(s) after the occurrence of any of these events and provide the information required below. After 90 days, the Contractor shall submit the information required below to the CO at least 30 calendar days prior to making any permanent substitutions.

3.9.4.1. The Contractor shall provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances necessitating the proposed substitutions, complete resumes for the proposed substitutes, and any additional information requested by the CO. Proposed substitutes shall have comparable qualifications to those of the persons being replaced. The CO will notify the Contractor within 30 calendar days after receipt of all required information of the decision on the proposed substitutes. The contract will be modified to reflect any approved changes of key personnel.

3.9.4.2. For temporary substitutions where the key person shall not be reporting to work for 3 consecutive work days or more, the Contractor shall provide a qualified replacement for the key person. The substitute shall have comparable qualifications to the key person. Any period exceeding two weeks will require the procedure as stated above.

3.9.4.3. The Government reserves the right to refuse acceptance of any Contractor personnel at any time after performance begins, if personal or professional conduct jeopardizes patient care or interferes with the regular and ordinary operation of the facility.

Breaches of conduct include intoxication or debilitation resulting from drug use, theft, patient abuse, dereliction or negligence in performing directed tasks, or other conduct resulting in formal complaints by patient or other staff members to designated

Government representatives. Standards for conduct shall mirror those prescribed by current federal personnel regulations. Should the VA COS or designee show documented clinical problems or continual unprofessional behavior/actions with any

Contractor’s physician(s), s/he may request, without cause, immediate replacement of said Contractor’s physician(s). The CO and COR shall deal with issues raised concerning Contractor’s physician(s) conduct. The final arbiter on questions of acceptability is the CO.

3.9.4.4. Contingency Plan: Because continuity of care is an essential part of the Facility’s medical services, The Contractor shall have a contingency plan in place to be utilized if the Contractor’s physician(s) leaves Contractor’s employment or is unable to continue performance in accordance with the terms and conditions of the resulting contract.

4. VA HOURS OF OPERATION/SCHEDULING

4.1. VA Business Hours: The MVAHCS is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.

Administrative offices general hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 8:00AM -4:30PM.

Clinic or OR Schedule: Contractor will provide on-call Interventional Cardiologist services for the

MVAHCS for up to 8 weekdays a month and up to 1.5 weekends a month allocating emergency coverage and ensuring uninterrupted call coverage at all required times

4.1.1. Patients must be seen by a Contractor’s physician(s) on-site at the facility in a timely manner in accordance with VA Rules and Regulations on clinic wait times and consult completion. Contractor shall notify the COR at least monthly about any obstacles to meeting this performance measure.

4.1.2. Contractor’s physician(s) shall be available and present in clinic during normal facility clinic hours, which will be established, and may be revised, as deemed appropriate for patient care by the Chief of Staff. Currently, normal clinic hours are 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. Administrative offices general hours of operation are Monday thru

Friday 8:00AM - 4:30PM.

4.1.3. Off-hours Coverage: Contractor must make the Contractor’s physician(s) available on-call during all hours when the facility clinic is closed, including evenings, weekends and holidays,as per the schedule of services provided under Period of Performance.

4.1.3.1. On-call contractor’s physician(s) must be available at all times for phone consultations with VA residents and physicians.

4.1.3.2. On-call providers must be available within 15 minutes by phone and on-site, within 30 minutes.

4.2. Federal Holidays: The following holidays are observed by the Department of Veterans Affairs:

• New Year’s Day

• President’s Day

• Martin Luther King’s Birthday

• Memorial Day

• Juneteenth

• Independence Day

• Labor Day

• Columbus Day

• Veterans Day

• Thanksgiving

• Christmas

• Any day specifically declared to be a national holiday.

4.3. Cancellations: Unless a state of emergency has been declared, the Contractors physician(s) shall be responsible for providing on-call services as scheduled.

5. CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1. Clinical Personnel Required: The Contractor shall provide Contractor’s physician(s) who are competent, qualified per this performance work statement and adequately trained to perform assigned duties.

5.1.1. Contractor’s physician(s) shall be responsible for signing in and out when in attendance.

Time sheets will be used by the COR to confirm hours/day and services provided against the contractor’s invoices.

5.2. Standards of Care: The Contractor’s physician(s)’ care shall cover the range of cardiology services as would be provided in a state-of-the-art civilian medical treatment facility and the standard of care shall be of a quality, meeting or exceeding currently recognized national standards as established by:

5.2.1. The American College of Cardiology (ACC): https://www.acc.org .

5.2.2. The professional standards of the Joint Commission (TJC):

http://www.jointcommission.org/standards_information/hap_requirements.aspx

5.2.3. The standards of the American Hospital Association (AHA):

http://www.hpoe.org/resources?show=100&type=8 and;

5.2.4. The requirements contained in this PWS

5.3. Medical Records

5.3.1. Authorities: Contractor’s physician(s) providing healthcare services to VA patients shall be considered as part of the Department Healthcare Activity and shall comply with the 5

U.S.C.552a (Privacy Act), 38 U.S.C. 5701 (Confidentiality of claimants records), 5 U.S.C.

552 (FOIA), 38 U.S.C. 5705 (Confidentiality of Medical Quality Assurance Records) 38

U.S.C. 7332 (Confidentiality of certain medical records), Title 5 U.S.C. § 522a (Records

Maintained on Individuals) as well as 45 C.F.R. Parts 160, 162, and 164 (HIPAA).

5.3.2. HIPAA: This contract and its requirements meet exception in 45 CFR 164.502(e), and do not require a BAA in order for Covered Entity to disclose Protected Health Information to: a health care provider for treatment of VA patients. Based on this exception, a BAA is not required for this contract. Health records generated by this contract or provided to the

Contractors by the VA are covered by the VA Privacy Act system of records entitled

‘Patient Medical Records-VA’ (24VA10A7). Contractor generated VA Patient records are the property of the VA and shall not be accessed, released, transferred, or destroyed except in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Contractor shall ensure that all records pertaining to medical care and services provided to VA patients are captured in the

VA electronic health record system as required by VA policy as discussed in 4.4.4.

5.3.3. Disclosure: Contractor’s physician(s) may have access to patient medical records for the purpose of providing medical care and services to VA patients and performing services under the contract; however, Contractor shall obtain permission from the VA before disclosing any patient information outside VA. VA authorizes the Contractor to discuss patient health information for coordination of care with community health care providers in compliance with VA regulations, HIPAA and VHA Directive 1605.01, Privacy and Release of Information. The VA will provide the Contractor with a copy of VHA Directive 1907.01, Health Information Management and Health Records and VHA Directive 1605.1, Privacy and Release of Information. The penalties and liabilities for the unauthorized disclosure of

VA patient information mandated by the statutes and regulations mentioned above, apply to the Contractor.

5.3.4. Professional Standards for Documenting Care: Care shall be appropriately documented in medical records in accordance with standard commercial practice and guidelines established by VHA Directive 1907.01 Health Information Management and Health

Records and all guidelines provided by the facility.

5.3.5. Release of Information: The VA shall maintain control of releasing any copies of patient health information or health records and will follow policies and standards as defined, but not limited to Privacy Act requirements. Contractor will not release or disclose copies of records and will refer all such requests to the Release of Information Department at the VA facility were assigned.

https://www.acc.org/ http://www.jointcommission.org/standards_information/hap_requirements.aspx http://www.hpoe.org/resources?show=100&type=8

5.3.6. Management for Medical Records: National Archives and Records Administration record disposition requirements are found in RCS 10-1 Chapter 6, 6000 series.

5.4. Direct Patient Care: estimated 90% of the time involved in direct patient care. Contractor shall be responsible for:

5.4.1. Scope of Care: Contractor’s physician(s) shall be responsible for providing cardiology and interventional cardiology consultative services for cardiac catheterization and interventional cardiology procedures, including, but not limited pericardiocentesis, endocardial biopsies, placement of intra-aortic balloon devices, and percutaneous revascularization procedures, including: balloon angioplasty, atherectomy, endoluminal stenting, intravascular ultrasound, intra-coronary Doppler flow velocity measurements, rhyolitic thrombectomy, and management of patients prior to, during, and following their percutaneous revascularization procedure, high risk coronary and peripheral vascular percutaneous procedures.

5.4.1.1. Contractor’s physician(s) shall provide on-call consulting services; onsite

Interventional Cardiology services including diagnostic and interventional procedures as needed.

5.4.1.2. Contractor’s physician(s) shall have appropriate management, consultation and clinical skills to perform a broad range of clinical care, related cardiac treatments and special procedures varying in complexity.

5.4.1.3. Provide professional guidance and ensuring appropriate, effective delivery of care and treatment methodology for VAMC Cardiology patients.

5.4.1.4. Cardiology service for diagnostic and other complex cardiac procedures, including pre-procedure evaluations and post-procedure outcomes.

5.4.1.5. Technically directs catheter based cardiac cases in a close team care framework.

Secures and assures similar technical direction by qualified cardiac specialists for cases requiring specialized expertise.

5.4.1.6. Possess collaborative skills sufficient to work effectively with physicians from referral specialties.

5.4.1.7. Concurrent call is acceptable due to limited availability of Interventional Cardiologists.

The contracted on-call Interventional Cardiologist may provide call services concurrently with the MVAHCS.

5.4.2. Remote Access: Contractor’s physicians (s) are required to have remote computer access to the MVHCS network. Remote CPRS access is required for all call coverage and to maintain timely documentation and encounter completion requirements. Remote access requires the provider to access CPRS at least once every 90 days. To acquire remote access, contractor must meet all the VA security requirements for computer access.

Request for remote access shall go through the COR.

5.4.3. Clinic Responsibilities: Contractor’s physician(s) shall be present on time scheduled

Clinic/Cardiac Catheterization Lab start times as documented by physical presence in the clinic at the scheduled start time.

5.4.4. Communication of Test Results: Mechanisms must be in-place to provide notification of test results for patients receiving care in accordance with VHA Directive 1088, Communicating Test Results to Providers and Patients.

5.4.5. Medications: Contractor’s physician(s) shall follow all established medication policies and procedures. No sample medications shall be provided to patients.

5.4.6. Discharge education: Provide discharge education and follow up instructions that are coordinated with the next care setting for all emergency department patients.

5.4.7. ADMINISTRATIVE: estimated 10% of time not involved in direct patient care.

5.4.7.1. Quality Improvement Meetings: The Contractor’s physician(s) shall participate in continuous quality improvement activities and meetings with committee participation as required by the facility Chief of Service, Chief of Staff, or designee.

5.4.7.2. Staff Meetings: The Contractor’s physician(s) shall attend staff meetings as required by the facility Chief of Service, Chief of Staff, or designee. Contractor to communicate with COR on this requirement and report any conflicts that may interfere with compliance with this requirement.

5.4.7.3. QA/QI documentation: The Contractor’s physician(s) shall complete the appropriate

QM/PI documentation pertaining to all procedures, complications and outcome of examinations.

5.4.7.4. Patient Safety Compliance and Reporting: Contractor’s physician(s) shall follow all established patient safety and infection control standards of care. Contractor’s physician(s) shall make every effort to prevent medication errors, falls, and patient injury caused by acts of commission or omission in the delivery of care. All events related to patient injury, medication errors, and other breeches of patient safety shall be documented in the medical record of those impacted and disclosed to the patient or surrogate. As soon as practicable (but within 24 hours) Contractors shall notify

COR of incident and submit an entry in the VA Patient Safety Reporting System, following up with COR as required or requested.

6. COR AND/OR CO RESPONSIBIITIES

6.1. In addition to responsibilities described in the role, the COR and/or CO will respond to contractor’s inquiries regarding selection and onboarding status within 2 to 5 business days.

7. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, QUALITY ASSURANCE (QA) AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT(QI)

7.1.1. Quality Management/Quality Assurance Surveillance: Contract personnel shall be subject to Quality Management measures, such as patient satisfaction surveys, timely completion of medical records, and Peer Reviews. Methods of Surveillance: Focused Provider

Practice Evaluation (FPPE) and Ongoing Provider Practice Evaluation (OPPE). Contractor performance will be monitored by the government using the standards as outlined in this

Performance Work Statement (PWS) and methods of surveillance detailed in the Quality

Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). The QASP shall be attached to the resultant contract and shall define the methods and frequency of surveillance conducted.

7.1.2. Patient Complaints: The CO will resolve complaints concerning Contractor relations with the Government employees or patients. The CO is final authority on validating complaints.

If the Contractor is involved and named in a validated patient complaint, the Government reserves the right to refuse acceptance of the services of such personnel. This does not preclude refusal in the event of incidents involving physical or verbal abuse.

7.1.3. The Government reserves the right to refuse acceptance of any Contractor personnel at any time after performance begins, if personal or professional conduct jeopardizes patient care or interferes with the regular and ordinary operation of the facility. Breaches of conduct include intoxication or debilitation resulting from drug use, theft, patient abuse, dereliction or negligence in performing directed tasks, or other conduct resulting in formal complaints by patient or other staff members to designated Government representatives.

Standards for conduct…