Attachment 11 - Chelmsford Questions and Answers.xlsx

XLSX spreadsheet 34 KB Posted Jan 17, 2023

Attached to: Q517--Staffing Service Chelmsford
Solicitation number: 36C77022R0005
Issued by: Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration Veterans Integrated Service Network 15

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Other files

File	Type	Posted
Attachment 10 - Chelmsford Site Visit Attendees.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Jan 17, 2023
Attachment 2 - PRS r1.docx	DOCX document	Jan 17, 2023
Attachment 4 - WD 2015-4035 Rev 23 12-27-22.pdf	PDF	Jan 17, 2023
Attachment 1 - PWS r1.docx	DOCX document	Jan 17, 2023
Attachment 9 - Business Associate Agreement.docx	DOCX document	Jan 17, 2023
Attachment 6 - Staff Matrix r1.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Jan 17, 2023
36C77022R0005 0003.docx	DOCX document	Jan 17, 2023
36C77022R0005 0002.docx	DOCX document	Jan 11, 2023
Attachment 7 - Past Performance r1.docx	DOCX document	Jan 11, 2023
36C77022R0005 0001.pdf	PDF	Dec 28, 2022
Attachment 8 - Site Visit Request Form Chelmsford 761.docx	DOCX document	Nov 29, 2022
Attachment 1 - PWS.docx	DOCX document	Nov 28, 2022
Attachment 4 - WD 2015-4035 r22 20220627.pdf	PDF	Nov 28, 2022
Attachment 7 - Past Performance.docx	DOCX document	Nov 28, 2022
Attachment 5 - VHA Supplemental Contract Requirements for Combatting COVID-19.docx	DOCX document	Nov 28, 2022
Attachment 2 - PRS.docx	DOCX document	Nov 28, 2022
Attachment 6 - Staff Matrix.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Nov 28, 2022
36C77022R0005.pdf	PDF	Nov 28, 2022
Attachment 3 - Performance Standards.pdf	PDF	Nov 28, 2022

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Sheet1

	RFP Section	Page	Question	Government Response
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-1, C. Proposal Preparation Instructions, (c) Volume III - Past Performance	p. 33	The instructions state, “Past Performance information described herein is required on the offeror and all subcontractors, teaming partners, and/or joint venture partners expected to perform 30 percent or more of the proposed effort based on the total proposed price.” Does this 30 percent encompass the entirety of the subcontracting team or is the Government intending for one subcontractor to be allocated this percentage of workshare?	The past performance information submittal requirement is for the offeror and for each of the offeror's subcontractors, teaming partners, and/or joint ventures that is expected to perform 30% more of the proposed effort based on the offeror's total proposed price.
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-1, C. Proposal Preparation Instructions, (c) Volume III - Past Performance; Attachment 7 – Past Performance	p. 33	The instructions allow for the use of subcontractor past performance, but the instructions in Attachment 7 say “Instructions to Prime Contractor: (Contractor submitting proposal):” Please clarify whether subcontractors can submit PPQs for their relevant experience for inclusion in their Prime Contractor’s proposals.	Attachment 7's instructions have been revised to provide clarity. Offerors shall submit past performance information in accordance with FAR 52.212-1
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-2, FACTOR 1 Technical Capability; Attachment 1 - PWS	p. 38; p. 4	The evaluation criteria states, “Demonstration means actual hiring and placing of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, healthcare workers and shipper/packers (unskilled labor) in a healthcare or pharmacy environment…”The PWS lists “Pharmacist” and “Pharmacy Technician” under the definition of “healthcare worker.” Clarify what other labor categories are considered under the label “healthcare worker.”	PWS 1.12.13. Healthcare Worker: As defined by the CDC, health care personnel “refers to all paid and unpaid persons serving in health care settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials."
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-2, FACTOR 1 Technical Capability	p. 38	The evaluation criteria states, “Demonstration means actual hiring and placing of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, healthcare workers and shipper/packers (unskilled labor) in a healthcare or pharmacy environment prior to the issuance of the solicitation with a MINIMUM of 11 pharmacists and pharmacy technicians; and 18 shipper/packers (unskilled labor) for a total of 29 FTEE in a single contract. ”This requirement for this minimum number of FTEEs on a single contract severely limits the competitive pool and favors the incumbent contractor. We request the Government remove this requirement to increase competition across the SDVOSB, allowing otherwise qualified offerors to submit their relevant experience and capability to fulfill the contract requirements.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-2, FACTOR 1 Technical Capability	p. 38	The Government requests that offerors demonstrate “actual hiring and placing of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, healthcare workers andshipper/packers (unskilled labor) in a healthcare or pharmacy environment prior to the issuance of the solicitation with a MINIMUM of 11 pharmacists and pharmacy technicians; and 18 shipper/packers (unskilled labor) for a total of 29 FTEE in a single contract.” Will the Government allow offerors to submit Single-Award IDIQ contracts (or Multiple-Award IDIQ contracts) demonstrating the minimum number of FTEEs required through task orders under those IDIQ contracts?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-2, FACTOR 1 Technical Capability, 1) Sub-factor A: Staffing Plan	p. 39	The evaluation criteria state, “Provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians currently on payroll within a fifty-mile radius of the Chelmsford CMOP.”This requirement limits competition and favors the incumbent(s) who are currently performing at this CMOP. We request the Government remove this requirement to allow otherwise qualified offerors to submit their relevant experience and capability to fulfill the contract requirements for Sub-Factor A.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-2, FACTOR 1 Technical Capability, 1) Sub-factor A: Staffing Plan	p. 39	What forms of documentation will the Government consider compliant in demonstrating an offeror’s “experience in navigating the VA’s unique credentialing, background, and on-boarding processes for a large number of contract personnel” for this requirement?	See Amendment 0002 which revised submission instructions and evaluation criteria.
	ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212-2, FACTOR 2 Past Performance	p. 40	Will the Government accept interim or final CPARs in lieu of PPQs?	Yes
	Attachment 1 – PWS, 3. Key Personnel, 3.1 Facility Administrator	p. 5	The PWS states, “FA’s must be Six Sigma Certified at or above the Green Belt Level and/or be Project Management Certified.” Please clarify the intent of the FA possessing these certifications. Our team has presented FAs and other similar labor categories on contracts of similar size, scope, and magnitude who have performed the position’s duties successfully without the requested certifications.	CMOP utilizes Six Sigma Standards as a management tool to improve patient quality and safety. This metrics-driven system is used to reduce medical errors and remove defects from the processes involved in delivering care. The requirement is only to provide Green Belt Level which is considered a beginner level when compared to Black Belt and Master Blackbelt Six Sigma Level. The FA will need Greenbelt and/or be Project Management Certified to understand the performance management and quality control used at the CMOP. CMOP cannot attest to the need of other procurements with other entities. This procurement requires Green Belt Level and/or Project Management Certified.
	Attachment 6 - Staff Matrix	N/A	Will offerors be allowed to increase the number of hours for those labor categories with zero (0) listed in Column B, “Estimated Annual Hours” if we determine additional FTEE hours are needed?	No. The Contracting Officer is the only one authorized to increase the number of hours for those labor categories. The numbers of hours in the staff matrix are an estimate. Actual labor hours required will be reflected on task orders.
	Attachment 7 – Past Performance	p. 1	Under “Instructions to Reference Contract," the Government requires the contracting personnel completing the form to “return the form to vendor requesting the reference.” We have had cases where some customers refuse to send the completed PPQ back to us because of the sensitive nature of the PPQ response, even with presenting the instructions from the solicitation requirements. Does the Government have an alternative for offerors if they encounter similar scenarios?	Amendment 0002 to the solicitation revised the PPQ and submission instructions.
	1449, Block 8 Offer Due 12-29-2022, 1400 CST	p. 1	Offeror questions are not due to the Government until 12 Dec and responses will not likely be posted until 19 Dec at the earliest. This will leave 10 days or less for offerors to adjust their proposals, produce the required number of printed volumes and copies, burn the required CDs, and package for overnight shipping. Additionally, offerors will need to allow for expect holiday-related shipping delays. Would the Government consider extending the offer due date to mid-January to enable interested vendors sufficient time to adjust their proposals to accommodate Government responses to submitted questions?	See Amendment 0003 to the solicitation, which extends the proposal submission date.
	C.6
52.232-19 Availability of Funds for Next Fiscal Year	p. 8	Current text state, “Funds are not presently available for performance under this contract beyond TBD at Task Order level.” Can the Government clarify that funds are available for the base year of a contract resulting from this solicitation?	As this solictation is for an ID/IQ, funds will be available at the task order level. Funding will not be provided at the ID/IQ level.
	Addendum to FAR 52.212-2 Evaluation – Commercial Products and Commercial Services
FACTOR 1 Technical Capability	p. 38	As stated, Offerors must demonstrate a minimum of 2 years’ experience in providing 11 pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and 18 shipper/packers under a single contract. Since the incumbent contractor (not an SDVOSB) has been supporting all VA CMOP/MbM operations, it is unlikely any SDVOSB vendor will have existing contracts meeting this combination of personnel requirements. This criterion appears to be unnecessarily restrictive. Will the Government modify this evaluation criteria to enable equally favorable ratings for SDVOSB offerors who have contracts for equivalent numbers of clinical and support personnel?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	FACTOR 1 Technical Capability
Sub-factor A: Staffing Plan a)	p. 39	This section indicates the Government will base their evaluation on the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians currently on payroll within fifty miles of the Chelmsford CMOP. Outside of the CMOP operation, there are limited numbers of contract pharmacists and technicians within the greater Chelmsford city limits. This criterion appears unnecessarily restrictive and provides an unfair advantage to an offeror team consisting of the incumbent. Would the Government consider removing this evaluation criteria?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	FACTOR 1 Technical Capability
Sub-factor A: Staffing Plan b)	p. 39	This section indicates the Government will base their evaluation on the actual number of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and shipper/parkers successfully placed in the last 24 months. The incumbent currently provides this staffing across all VA CMOPS/MbM facilities at levels that likely cannot be matched by SDVOSB offerors. This criterion appears unnecessarily restrictive and provides an unfair advantage to an offeror team consisting of the incumbent. Would the Government consider removing this evaluation criteria?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	N/A	N/A	Could you please provide me with the list of attendees for the Chelmsford Site Visit?	See Amendment 0003 to the solicitation for a list of attendees.
	Reference: Section E.1, Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 C.2 Table		The solicitation requires submission of three (3) hard copies and one (1) digital copy of offeror’s proposal. Shipping delivery dates are often delayed due to increased volumes around the holiday season. In keeping in line with recent federal procurement trends asking for electronic submittals, will the VA please consider requiring only an electronic submission of offers in response to this solicitation?	See Amendment 0002 revisions to FAR 52.212-1, which addresses this question.
			In order to comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) and align with other VA contracting offices, we kindly request that you allow for Offerors to submit their proposals via email in lieu of hard copies. If not, we kindly request an extension to allow more time for production efforts over the holidays.	See Amendment 0002 to the solicitation, which removed the requirement for hard copies.
			To demonstrate staffing within a 50-mile radius, can a bidder provide resumes?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			To allow for adequate competition due to the unique nature of consolidating the functional areas of this contract, can a bidder provide one contract with the required pharmacists/pharmacy techs and another contract with the required shipper/packers in order to meet the minimum thresholds outlined on page 38, FACTOR 1 Technical Capability of the RFP?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			What inventory/furniture/furnishings will be provided as part of the Government furnished office space for the on-site facility administrator?	VA will only supply a dedicated on-site workspace. PWS 8.9. The Contractor must provide all equipment, office supplies, office machines, and furniture required for on-site administrative contractor personnel, if required. Any installation required will be the responsibility of the contractor and must be coordinated with the COR. Any connectivity for electronic equipment is the responsibility of the Contractor.
			How many on-site facility administrators are required? Will space be provided for all?	PWS 2.3. Facility Administrator(s) (FA) shall be on-site at the facility during all production hours to ensure daily on-site supervisory and technical monitoring of contractor staff. PWS 7.6.1. For the convenience of the Government, a dedicated on-site workspace for the Contractor's on- site facility administrator(s) will be provided.
			What equipment/system is being used for electronic timekeeping currently?	The current electronic timekeeping hardware that is on-site is owned and operated by the incumbent. There is no requirement that incumbent's timekeeping system be utilized.
			The Pharmacist Lead and Pharmacy Technician Lead positions do not have line items for regular night shift; however, they have line items designated for “Overtime Night” and “Holiday Night”. Is this an oversight?	See Amendment 0003 which revises the staff matrix. Additionally, there is no night shift. See PWS 1.6. Current Hours of Operation/Scheduling (Hours are in local time zones):

1.6.1. Chelmsford: 5:00 AM – 3:00 PM (staggered start times) Monday through Friday.

			Will the Government provide on-site facility administrator space for both facility administrators	VA will only supply a (one) dedicated on-site workspace. This space will be shared by contract personnel to include administrative personnel. See PWS 2.2 for reference
	Staff Matrix attachment 5		There are zero hours for most of the line items. In other words, there are zero hours for overtime, nights, holidays, or any time for any work by lead positions. Was the Government intent, therefore, that only the four labor categories be priced (without any consideration for overtime, nights, holidays, or any time for any work by lead positions)?	See Amendment 0003 to the solicitation for a revised Staff Matrix. All labor categories in the staff matrix must be priced.
	Staff Matrix attachment 5		There are line items with reference to “lead” personnel. Are the “lead” personnel identical to the “key personnel” identified in the PWS?	Yes.
	PWS Attachment 1		In paragraph 3 in the PWS - Key Personnel, addresses the requirement for key individuals for each of the four labor categories (pharmacist, pharmacist technician, shipping/packaging, and facility administration). Is the Government expectation that there be only one lead person per labor category?	Contractors are expected to provide staffing to meet all of the requirements. Currrently, one lead is on-site. The PWS at Para 3 reflects the number of estimated leads; however it is up to contractors to determine their staffing requirements.
	PWS Attachment 1		Paragraph 8.8, states The Contractor must provide all necessary equipment for detailed electronic timekeeping purposes to include hardware that would require personnel to physically clock in and clock out. Personal electronic devices are not allowed on the production floor and cannot be used for this purpose. Records such as time and attendance logs must be used to verify Contractor's performance. Detailed timekeeping reports are to be submitted weekly, for verification and review, to the COR. Manual adjustments to timekeeping records must be easily identified to include a detailed rationale to support the adjustment. The Contractor shall provide the COR with any additional documentation necessary to validate invoicing. One timekeeping device shall be provided for each forty (40) personnel. Installation of timekeeping systems are the responsibility of the Contractor and are to be coordinated with the COR. Timekeeping records are to be maintained for six (6) years, three (3) months after the final payment is received on the contract. Will we need to supply hardware - device on-site (1 per 40 FTEs) so that the employees can clock in and out?	Yes
	PWS Attachment 1		Paragraph 8.8, states The Contractor must provide all necessary equipment for detailed electronic timekeeping purposes to include hardware that would require personnel to physically clock in and clock out. Personal electronic devices are not allowed on the production floor and cannot be used for this purpose. Records such as time and attendance logs must be used to verify Contractor's performance. Detailed timekeeping reports are to be submitted weekly, for verification and review, to the COR. Manual adjustments to timekeeping records must be easily identified to include a detailed rationale to support the adjustment. The Contractor shall provide the COR with any additional documentation necessary to validate invoicing. One timekeeping device shall be provided for each forty (40) personnel. Installation of timekeeping systems are the responsibility of the Contractor and are to be coordinated with the COR. Timekeeping records are to be maintained for six (6) years, three (3) months after the final payment is received on the contract. Will our current process of logging time be allowed (i.e., PAYCOM)?	At this time, VA has no way of determining if your current process of timekeeping meets all of the PWS requirements. See PWS 8.8 for reference to this solicitations requirements for electronic timekeeping. Please refer to Section E, FAR 52.212-1 for information needed to submit with respect to your proposed timekeeping process.
	PWS Attachment 1		Paragraph 8.9, states that the Contractor must provide all equipment, office supplies, office machines, and furniture required for on-site administrative contractor personnel, if required. Any installation required will be the responsibility of the contractor and must be coordinated with the COR. Any connectivity for electronic equipment is the responsibility of the Contractor. Is this just for the facilities administrator? What kind of equipment/furniture is required?	The VA will only supply a dedicated on-site workspace for the contractor (PWS 7.6). The equipment/furniture required for such workspace is wholly dependent upon what the contractor has determined to be necessary in order for its Facility Administrator(s)(FAs) and administrative contract personnel to perfom their required duties.
			Is the facility open and operating 24 hours?	No. The facility is not open and operating 24 hours. See PWS 1.6.1
			In Factor 1, Technical Capability the Solicitation states that the shipper/packer is "unskilled labor" that is, this individual need only have:Have a high school diploma or GED, Demonstrate effective interpersonal communication skills with coworkers and staff, Have basic typing skills, PC computer skills, working knowledge of MS Office, Must read, understand, speak, and write English fluently under the authority of U.S.C. 7402(d) and 7407(d), Must be able to lift to 50 pounds when required; push or pull up to 150 pounds on a rolling cart or using a pallet jack, Able to sit/stand for long periods of time (8-10 hours) and being able to lift totes weighing up to 30 pounds repetitively, Must be able to understand the precautions required when handling hazardous materials and hazardous waste. Will the Government accept past performance that does not include the labor category "shipper/packer," but includes other unskilled labor categories in a pharmacy setting that require the seven qualifications listed above?	Yes.
			C.15 SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS (b) General Liability: $500,000.00 per occurrences. (c) Automobile liability: $200,000.00 per person; $500,000.00 per occurrence and $20,000.00 property damage.
(d) The successful bidder must present to the Contracting Officer, prior to award, evidence of general liability insurance without any exclusionary clauses for asbestos that would void the general liability coverage. Does the above statement mean employees will be driving/delivering meds? If so, will they be using their POV or a government Vehicle?	Driving/delivering meds is not in the scope of this contract. See PWS 5.0 Tasks, for tasks that are within scope of this solicitation.
	Addendum to FAR 52.212-1, Instructions, Conditions, & Notices to Proposals	p. 33	The table included in this section defines the number of digital (CD) and Hard Copies (binders) required for the solicitation submission. The Paper Reduction Act of 1995, requires that agencies obtain approval before requesting collection of information requiring paper. In addition, with COVID being an issue with handling and distribution of this type of media, has electronic delivery of the proposal been considered? This will eliminate the paper requirements as well as any potential issue with handling of the required media for submission?	See Amendment 0002 to the solicitation clarifying submission instructions.
	Staffing Matrix Attachment 6, PWS Attachment 1		In the solicitation it states the minimum number of FTEEs totals 29 (11 pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, 18 shipper/packers) (page 38 of the solicitation). In the PWS (page 1) the staffing numbers historical data implies that we are expected to bid on 86 FTEEs. Attachment 6, Staffing Matrix numbers do not match this number, as with the stated hours it is approximately 45 FTEEs. Please clarify the discrepancies.	See Amendment 0003 to the solicitation for a revised PWS with FTEE totals and a revised Staff Matrix.
	SF1449		This section states that WD 2015-5105 r18 dated July 10, 2022 will apply to this solicitation and resultant contract. This document does not include the Chelmsford area. WD 2015-4035, REV 22, dated 27 June 2022, which does include the Chelmsford area is not the required document. Please confirm and or clarify this discrepancy for the WD documents.	Block 20D should be corrected to read: Wage Determination 2015-4035 Rev 23 dated December 26, 2022 will apply to this solicitation and contract.
	52.212-2 (a)		This states: Technical and Past Performance, when combined are significantly more important than price. However this does not say what the weight of each of these is in relation to the other. Please provide us the scoring criteria for each evaluated section - Technical, Past Performance and Price.	Reference Addendum to FAR 52.212-2, which states: Factor 1, Technical Capability and Factor 2, Past Performance, are of equal importance. In accordance with FAR 15.304, Technical Capability and Past Performance, when combined, are significantly more important than price.
	36C77022R0005		This states: Provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians currently on payroll within a fifty-mile radius of the Chelmsford CMOP. As this is evaluation criteria for the technical volume - how is this number quantified as being acceptable?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	36C77022R0005		This states: Provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians currently on payroll within a fifty-mile radius of the Chelmsford CMOP. What number will achieve the highest rating?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	36C77022R0005		This states: Provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians currently on payroll within a fifty-mile radius of the Chelmsford CMOP. How is a rating obtained?	See Amendment 0001 to the solicitation, adding evaluation criteria.
	36C77022R0005		This states: Provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians currently on payroll within a fifty-mile radius of the Chelmsford CMOP. The incumbent has a distinct advantage in having placed these positions and makes this a violation of Competition in Contracting Act (CICA) and is unduly restrictive and sets this contract up for a possible GAO Protest.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			This states: The offeror shall provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, and shipper/packers (unskilled labor) successfully placed in the last 24 months. As this is evaluation criteria for the technical volume - how is this number quantified as being acceptable?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			This states: The offeror shall provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, and shipper/packers (unskilled labor) successfully placed in the last 24 months. As this is evaluation criteria for the technical volume - What number will achieve the highest rating?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			This states: The offeror shall provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, and shipper/packers (unskilled labor) successfully placed in the last 24 months. As this is evaluation criteria for the technical volume - How is the rating obtained?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			This section is a request for documentation. How is this information used in the quantifying of the offeror's and ability to provide appropriate staffing? How is this quantified and scored?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Request for documentation showing experience in navigating the VA's unique credentialing, background, and on-boarding process for a large number of contract personnel. If no VA on-boarding experience, please provide examples of on-boarding processes specific to your organization. Will the Government please quantify how much evidence of credentialing, background, etc. is required and how is this scored?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Request for documentation showing experience in navigating the VA's unique credentialing, background, and on-boarding process for a large number of contract personnel. If no VA on-boarding experience, please provide examples of on-boarding processes specific to your organization. If examples are provided - how are they scored and what number of examples should be provided?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide scoring and evaluation criteria for recruitment practices.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide scoring and evaluation criteria for offeror electronic timekeeping and records management.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for company provided experience relating to facility administrators.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for offeror provided Quality Control Plan	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for offeror provided timelines and milestones related to transition.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for offeror provided documentation demonstrating transitioning of personnel.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for offeror provided processes and procedures that speak of offeror experience in maintaining production standards and goals during transition periods.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for the Past Performance. Is this a pass/fail? What constitutes a pass? Or a fail?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for the Past Performance. Is this a confidence rating? If so what constitutes each level of confidence?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please provide the scoring and evaluation criteria for the Past Performance. Is this a pass/fail? What constitutes a pass? Or a fail? Is this a confidence rating? If so what constitutes each level of confidence?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Is there a minimum and maximum number of past performance contracts to be provided? Is the number of Past Performance contracts provided important to any rating that is provided in response to question #16 above.	See Amendment 0002 which revised submission instructions at Section E, FAR 52.212-1.
			If the contractor does not accept less than the full 90-days, will the Government either extend the incumbent or offer concessions to the awarded contractor? If concessiosn, will the VA consider financial compensation for acceptance of a reduced transition period.	PWS 5.7 discusses phase in/phase out services. 90 days is a contract requirement and subject to change upon mutual agreement.
			The PWS states the historical number of FTEE's for the weekly requirements for the contract. Please clarify if this FTEE count includes the leads for these positions.	Yes
			The PWS states that documentation for on-boarding is required as well as navigating the VA's unique credentialing, background, and on-boarding processes. Please provide the VA credentialing criteria and requirements. Without this information being provided it gives the incumbent an unfair advantage, limits competition, and sets the award up for a GAO Protest.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	36C77022R0005, Evaluation, Factor 2: Past Performance.	p. 40	The Government states, “Past Performance Questionnaires shall be included as part of the proposal submissions and shall not be sent directly to the Contracting Officer from the reference source.” Oftentimes, clients who provide sensitive/confidential information about an Offeror’s contract performance are reluctant, or will outright refuse, to provide such data back to the Contractor directly. We respectfully request the Government modify this requirement and have the client provide the PPQ directly to this solicitation Contracting Officer.	See Amendment 0002 which clarified the PPQ Attachment.
		p. 38	The Government states, “Proposals will demonstrate the offeror’s experience in providing shipper/packers (unskilled, general labor, pharmacy aide, etc.). Demonstration means actual hiring and placing of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, healthcare workers and shipper/packers (unskilled labor) in a healthcare or pharmacy environment prior to the issuance of the solicitation with a MINIMUM of 11 pharmacists and pharmacy technicians; and 18 shipper/packers (unskilled labor) for a total of 29 FTEE in a single contract.” We respectfully request the Government allow for this hiring and placing of staff to be demonstrated over multiple contracts instead of a single contract. Requiring this under a single contract limits the qualified pool of offerors and works against the Governments best interest.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	36C77022R0005, C. Proposal Preparation Instructions, 2 Format	p. 32	The Government states "The Offers shall be organized into four (4) volumes. Offerors shall submit an original and the number of copies listed in the table below of their proposal. Each hard copy volume of the proposal shall be separated and bound. A cover sheet should be in each volume, clearly marked as to volume number, title, copy number, solicitation identification and the offeror's name. All text shall be single spaced and printed black on white paper (Black and white requirement does not apply to graphics, photos, etc., Company stationery and logos are acceptable. Printing shall be easily readable (12- pitch type or 10 point proportional spacing.) Cross-references should be utilized to preclude unnecessary duplication of data between sections. The proposal shall not exceed the limits stated in table. If the page limits are exceeded, the pages in excess of the limit shall be removed and returned, unread, to the offeror. The Government will not accept any changes to the contractor’s proposal after the closing date of the solicitation. In addition to submitting hard copies of the proposals, digital copies shall be provided on CD-ROM disk in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and/or Excel as outlined in Table 3.” We respectfully request that the Government revise the requirement for hard copy submission to an all electronic submission, preferably email, given the Government Paperwork Elimination Act that "requires Federal agencies, by October 21, 2003, to provide individuals or entities that deal with agencies the option to submit information or transact with the agency electronically, and to maintain records electronically, when practicable."	See Amendment 0002 to the solicitation clarifying submission instructions.
	36C77022R0005, Sub-factor A Staffing Plan, a)	p. 39	The Government states to "Provide the actual number of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians currently on payroll within a fifty-mile radius of the Chelmsford CMOP." We respectfully request the Government remove the fifty-mile radius. Requiring this milage restriction limits the qualified pool of offerors and works against the Governments best interest.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
	36C77022R0005		Will the Government consider extending the due date by 2 weeks to Jan 12, 2023?	See Amendment 0003 to the solicitation which extends the propoal submission deadline.
	Attachment 6		There are some formatting and data validation issues in Attachment 6 - the cells are validating that inputs are in the date format (e.g. Cell D4). Can the vendor fix this attachment to remove data validation issue and intake dollar values?	See Amendment 0003 which corrects the Staff Matrix.
	36C77022R0005, Sub-factor B Program Management, c) Quality Control Plan	p. 39	The Government states "Quality Control Plan – Provide documentation showing how your company plans to meet the requirements of the contract to include assessing contract personnel’s performance, documenting identified performance issues, implementing performance improvement measures, and monitoring of corrective actions and effectiveness of corrective actions." Will the Government allow for the offerors quality control plan to be submitted as an addendum to the proposal outside of the page count?	See Amendment 0002 which revised page limits.
	Attachment 7 - Past Performance	p. 2	On page 2 the Government provided respondent information box states that it is to be completed by the reference contact. The last row of that table request the number of FTEE "your" firm provided. This box should be completed by the offeror and not the respondent. We ask that the Government move this request to the p1 box that is to be completed by the offeror.	See Amendment 0002 to the solicitation which revised the PPQ.
			Please clarify your FTEE equivalent and total number of hours. Section 1.3 indicates a higher number of needs and hours than stated in the Staff Matrix attachment.	See Amendment 0003 to the solicitation which corrects the Staff Matrix.
			Please outline any peaks: What is the timeframe and by what % does the staffing demand increase?	Workload varies. See PWS 1.2.2.2. Average production rates can vary widely from day to day and week to week based on a variety of factors such as inclement weather, staffing shortages, workload transfer, and system malfunctions. PWS 8.3.	The contractor must attempt to maintain a 100% staffing rate per scheduled shift but at no time will a staffing rate below 97% be considered acceptable for each labor category. Rates below acceptable levels will result in action by the CO, unless otherwise authorized by the COR. If required to be staffed at less than 97%, notification will be made by COR to the contractor.
			Can you confirm that these roles are eligible for benefits and holiday pay? What is the process to bill for those?	This is not a personal services contract and contractor personnel are not employees. Accordingly, the Government does not pay contractors for sick leave, holidays, vacation, etc.
			Is a uniform required?	See PWS 8.4. All Contractor employees must be clearly differentiated from VA staff. All contract employees must wear apparel, or a badge issued by the contractor that clearly indicates the name of contracted agency.
			What is the average assignment length of your temporary workers by job category/skill set?	As this question does not pertain to the solicitation, the Government has no response. Should the offeror desire information about the existing contract, the offeror can submit a FOIA request to: Ryan McFarland, Ryan.McFarland@va.gov. To the extent that the question regards staffing requirements, please refer to Section 1.3 of the PWS.
			Current program. What type of solution do you have in place today? How long has it been in place?	As this question does not pertain to the solicitation, the Government has no response. Should the offeror desire information about the existing contract, the offeror can submit a FOIA request to: Ryan McFarland, Ryan.McFarland@va.gov. To the extent that the question regards staffing requirements, please refer to Section 1.3 of the PWS.
			Current program. How many vendors are you currently working with?	As this question does not pertain to the solicitation, the Government has no response. Should the offeror desire information about the existing contract, the offeror can submit a FOIA request to: Ryan McFarland, Ryan.McFarland@va.gov. To the extent that the question regards staffing requirements, please refer to Section 1.3 of the PWS.
			Current program. What challenges are you experiencing with your current contingent labor program?	This is an opportunity for offerors to ask questions pertaining to the solicitation. As this question does not pertain to the posted solicitation, the Government has no response.
			How many vendors were invited to this RFP?	The solicitation was posted on SAM.gov as a 100% SDVOSB set-aside.
			Do you currently have an on-site program?	Yes. FAR 52.212-1 included details on a site visit which was available on Dec 2, 2022.
			What is the current fulfillment rate on your openings by labor category?	The Government does not track this; it is internal to the contractor.
			What is the current retention rate of your contingent workforce by labor category?	The Government does not track this; it is internal to the contractor.
			Can paid sick leave, if any, be billed as used?	This is not a personal services contract and contractor personnel are not employees. Accordingly, the Government does not pay contractors for sick leave, holidays, vacation, etc.
			Is automated timekeeping currently utilized for contingent workers? If so, which system?	The current Contractor owns and operaters all necessary equipment for detailed electronic timekeeping purposes to include hardware that would require personnel to physically clock in and clock out.
			Please describe the orientation and training process that your hiring managers currently administer to temporary employees, including forklift certification.	The contractor is responsible for "hiring managers". Operation of forklifts is out of scope of this solicitation. See PWS 5.0 Tasks
			Please outline your requirements for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Which PPE is expected to be provided (paid for) by the vendor? Please indicate which positions require which PPE.	PWS 7.4.1. The CMOP will supply disposable PPE to include gloves, aprons, eye protection and any other PPE required by OSHA. PWS 8.10 The contractor shall provide PPE in accordance with published Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance during any events such as a pandemic or other health/safety reason.
			Can you please provide your safety record for 2022?	The Government does not track this; it is internal to the contractor.
			What VA resources are available to the Pharmacists and Pharmacy Techs including technology/IT resources, data resources, and management/operational resources to assist with managing customer incidents or complaints. (Looking for VA management resources above and beyond the contract lead roles at the site)	VA QA at the CMOP manage customer incidents or complaints. It is not the contractor's responsibility to handle customer complaints.
			Why is the NACIS code 561210 being used versus 561311	The contracting officer determined that NAICS code 561210 best describes the principal purpose of the services being acquired.
			Why is there a requirement to have minimum of Pharmacist, Pharmacist Technician, and warehouse shipper/packers within 50 miles of the current site location.	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Please confirm award will be made to one single vendor.	The Government anticipates a single award, FFP ID/IQ to be awarded as a result of this solicitation.
			Reference PWS Section 8.6, “Pursuant to The Joint Commission standards, the Contractor must maintain in an ongoing state of readiness, available for inspection, an Orientation/Training/Competency Assessment File for each contract employee that contains the following items located at each of the supported CMOP facilities”. Please confirm if an online personnel file containing the identified items will fulfill this requirement? The online file would be maintained in a virtual program, not be a hard copy file physically located at a facility. The file would be accessible for inspection through an internet connection and log in to applicable program.	An online personnel file will not fulfill this requirement. A hard copy is required.
			Reference PWS Section 8.10. The contractor must provide any PPE in accordance with published guidance during any events such as a pandemic or other health/safety reason. Please confirm if PPE is required for COVID/pandemic; if so, what items?	PPE is required for COVID/pandemic. The contractor is responsible for PPE as recommended and defined by the CDC. See Revised PWS 8.10. The contractor must provide any PPE in accordance with published CDC guidance during any events such as a pandemic or other health/safety reason.
			Please clarify what items will be provided as described by section 7.4.1 vs 8.10	PWS 7.4.1. The CMOP will supply disposable PPE to include gloves, aprons, eye protection and any other PPE required by OSHA. PWS 8.10 The contractor shall provide PPE in accordance with published Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance during any events such as a pandemic or other health/safety reason.
			Reference PWS Section 8.12. The Contractor must be responsible for protecting the personnel furnishing services under this contract. To carry out this responsibility, the Contractor must provide or cause the provision of the following for these personnel: Please confirm requirements of health examination identified in 8.12.3?	See Amendment 0003 which revises the PWS. Para 8.12 and sub-Para's 8.12.1 through 8.12.6 were removed.
			Reference PWS Section 15.2. All drug testing costs of contract employees must be borne by the Contractor. Contract employee to be placed in a CMOP must be screened for improper use of drugs by the Contractor as part of pre-employment. Please confirm if there is a required level for the pre-employment drug screen (5 panel)?	Services provided under this contract are subject to VA’s Drug-Free Workplace Policy. As such, Contractor shall provide personnel consistent with the aim of that policy, i.e., personnel that are drug free. Contractor shall have its own guidelines in place to promote the utilization of drug free personnel, including the ability to administer drug testing on their personnel during situations of “reasonable suspicion” of drug use and testing following any incidents of “accident or unsafe practices”. It is also recommended that Contractor have procedures in place for random drug testing. There is no required level; it is up to the contractor to determine their drug screening policies.
			Referenced SF 1449 Block 20 WD 2015-5105 R18 dated July 10, 2022	Block 20D should be corrected to read: Wage Determination 2015-4035 Rev 23 dated December 26, 2022 will apply to this solicitation and contract.
			Please advise if there are incumbent contractors performing services? If so, please advise date that each contractor began service. This information is required in order to correctly identify benefits in accordance with Wage Determination and include in cost build up.	The incumbent has been performing services since as least 2012.
			7.	Referenced SF 1449 Block 8 Due Date. Will the government consider an extension of the due date to allow offerors to incorporate answers to questions?	See Amendment 0003 which will extend the due date for proposals.
			Because of the consolidation of functional areas for this opportunity and to ensure adequate competition, can a bidder provide two contracts -- one with the requirement for pharmacists/pharmacy techs and another with the shipper/packer requirements to meet the minimums included in the Factor 1, Technical Capability section on page 38 of the RFP?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			In alignment with other VA contracting office practices as well as to comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), we request that bidders be allowed to submit their proposals via email instead of hard copies. If not, we sincerely request an extension to allow adequate time for production efforts during the holidays.	See Amendment 0002 to the solicitation which updates proposal submission information.
			Can bidders submit resumes demonstrating staffing within a 50-mile radius?	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Can the Government consider accepting concurrent contract staffing experience to meet the minimum requirements of demonstrating the required staffing experience in in Factor 1 – Technical Capability?
	See Amendment 0002 which revised evaluation criteria.
			Is any furniture and/or equipment provided with the dedicated on-site workspace provided by the Government?	No.
			Can the Government accept hand delivered copies of the submission requirements?	No.
	36C77022R0005	p. 40	The RFP evaluation section E.6 indicates that a transition plan is evaluated. However, the pricing requested does not evaluate transition pricing. Please update the 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors and 52.212-2 Evaluation criteria to include instructions for transition pricing and how this pricing will be evaluated	The Transition Plan will be evaluated to determine your company’s experience in transitioning from an incumbent contractor. Pricing will not be any different than what was identified in Attachment 6 Staffing Matrix. The transition will begin on the first day of a signed contract. The transition period will not be a separately priced CLIN but is a contract requirement.
	36C77022R0005	p. 40	The RFP evaluation section E.6 indicates that a transition plan is evaluated. However, the pricing requested does not include transition pricing. Is transition included and are we allowed to modify the hours to reflect the Offeror’s transition plans?	PWS Para 5.7 provides information on the transition. The transition period will not be a separately priced CLIN but it is a contract requirement. It is up to the contractor to determine how they will price their proposal.
	PWS Attachment 1		Para 6.3 speaks to VetPro. Is VetPro required for both Pharmacists and Certified Pharmacy Techs, or is it required for only Certified Pharmacy Techs? Can the government please confirm which positions require VetPro?	Certified Pharmacy Technicians and Pharmacists require VetPro.
	PWS Attachment 1		Does the addition of “healthcare workers” indicate that additional healthcare labor categories beyond Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, and Shipper/Packers are being solicited by the government; and will they be billable under the resultant contract?	Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians are considered Healthcare workers. See PWS 1.12.13.Healthcare Worker: As defined by the CDC, health care personnel “refers to all paid and unpaid persons serving in health care settings who have the potential for direct or indirect exposure to patients or infectious materials." Furthermore, the Government used the same rationale for Shipper/Packers by opening it up to unskilled labor.
	36C77022R0005		Factor 1 Technical Capability, Subfactor A, Staffing Plan states: “c) Provide documentation to support item b) above. At a minimum, documentation must be provided for each example and shall include […] 7. Time taken for placement/on-boarding of the pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and 8. Time to fill vacancy per number of business days for each position; as well as d) Provide documentation to show your organization’s experience in navigating the VA’s unique credentialing, background, and on-boarding processes for a large number of contract personnel. If no VA on-boarding experience, please provide examples of onboarding processes specific to your organization.”The VA’s unique system requires clearances for NACI, CAC, VetPro, on-site facility access, and local finger printing requirements that are not found in commercial hiring environments. Can the government provide estimates of VA processing time for each of these aspects? If not provided, should we exclude the government/VA portion of the time to fill and on-boarding number of business days, thus reflecting contractor’s process portion of the process?	Exclude the government/VA portion of the on-boarding number of business days, reflecting only the contractor’s portion of the process.

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