Response to Questions.pdf

Response to Questions

1. The RFP states that the 2 ambulances must physically be AT the Hopi HCC 24/7.

a. Would we be permitted to obtain an ‘office’ space to house the crews/vehicles at within close proximity to the HCC?

There is an office space that can be provided to the awardee.

b. Or do the ambulances really have to be physically AT the facility? Maybe a response time requirement could be put in place if we are able to use an off‐site location to house vehicles, staff, and restock equipment..?

i. If the crews do in fact have to be at the facility on a 24/7 basis, does the

Hopi HCC have restrooms, showers, kitchen, rest quarters?

Discussion point: If not, are there any suggestions for how we might manage our crew members needs; meals, restrooms, etc. during these shifts if the ambulances cannot move from the HCC.

The vehicles and crews would generally need to be within a reasonable response time. 30 minutes is preferable. The ambulances are currently stored about 15 miles from the facility. Housing is very limited and could be obtained through Walpi housing authority with the Tribe. Walpi has a housing complex approximately 75 yards from the facility. While there are showers and minimal facilities at the hospital, generally the contractor would rent\lease housing within the community. Walpi Housing can be reached at 928‐737‐5419.

2. The RFP mentions that mutual aid agreements must be emplaced.

a. Specifically with whom?

This is left over language from the first contract where the contractor would also agree to cover the community EMS needs that Hopi EMS could not cover (go to the homes of tribal members). In the new contract, we removed community EMS as part of the Scope of Work.

b. Based on the RFP, it appears that the 2 ambulances are fully dedicated 24/7 to the Hopi HCC. If that is the case, how could they participate in mutual aid requests?

i. Will there be a detailed clause which states how a unit may be released from dedicated service to respond to a mutual aid request?

Currently, there are time when the current provider takes a unit out of service for maintenance, repairs, recovery from distance transport, or mechanical/staffing issues. These are done on an as needed basis and occur several times per month.

3. Is the CAAS accreditation a deal breaker to begin the contractual period?

a. Would the contracting officer be amenable to allowing a period for Journey to obtain CAAS accreditation as the accreditation is very time consuming to obtain and Journey does not have the time to obtain it prior to operations commencing?

CAAS is preferred but not required. PWS updated to reflect this.

4. Who is currently providing these long distance transports?

a. Can the CO put us in contact with the manager or supervisor of that service provider so that we can meet with them in person to discuss any current challenges that are being experienced?

Currently, we have a guardian flight helicopter here on station. The plan is for them to stay here on station. The Hopi tribe also has 2 ambulances in place for community response/trauma locally. The Hopi EMS will continue to serve in the current capacity. Hopi EMS provides some transports, but only short distances and ‘when available.’

5. Can the CO arrange an opportunity for us to visit the HHCC and meet with the staff to try to obtain a full understanding of the facilities capabilities, layout, and details regarding how they see this contract being emplaced?

We are happy to welcome a visit to better understand the current layout and capabilities. A site visit can be organized by contacting Dr Heffington at 928‐737‐6140.

6. Can the CO provide a list of contacts for the local air and ground assets which are currently utilized to transport patients?

Guardian provides the helicopter stationed here. I believe they are headquartered in Flagstaff. EMS units will be required by the awardee.

7. Does the award of this contract automatically allow the provider to perform services on the Hopi reservation, or is there a further process to obtain a business permit?

There is an additional business license and TERO fees. The TERO office and the revenue commission office at the Hopi Tribe can provide that information. 928.734.3000 is the main number.