Attachment_1_Performance_of_Work_Statement_(PWS)_053019.docx

Department of Defense Defense Health Agency – Performance Work Statement – Animal Assisted Therapy Program Support

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Bethesda, MD

Solicitation Number: HT001419R0009 Version: 1 Date: 30 May 2019

PART 1

1.0 GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 This is a non-personal services contract to provide Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) Program Support.

1.2 Description of services/introduction: The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to Animal Assisted Therapy Program Support as defined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS) except for those items specified as government furnished property and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this performance work statement.

1.3 Background: This requirement is an ongoing need for an Animal Assisted Therapy program in support of the therapy and rehabilitation of Wounded Warrior patients and other eligible health care beneficiaries in treatment for post-traumatic stress (PTS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) symptoms. The National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE) is a Directorate within Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), whose mission is to improve the lives of patients and families impacted by TBI and co-morbid psychological health (PH) issues, through clinical care, research and education.

1.3.1 The Directorate for NICoE at WRNMMC has the shared responsibility with other Directorates at WRNMMC for the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of those with traumatic brain injury and associated psychological health conditions. Often, the NICoE serves patients that have failed other more traditional treatments; therefore, a multitude of novel approaches need to be available in order to enhance the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to meet the complex challenges experienced by this unique patient population. This includes providing individualized, holistic care in a safe and effective manner.

1.4 Objectives: The WRNMMC / NICoE Animal Assisted Therapy Program is intended to offer service dog training, which refers to the instruction and incorporation of patients with conditions such as TBI and PTS in the training of purpose-bred dogs to be certified service dogs. Once these service dogs are trained, they should then be available to be assigned to injured veterans to help improve their functional and mobility impairments. Service Dog Training is described in the medical literature as a promising adjunct modality for Service Members and Veterans with post-traumatic stress symptoms or related conditions. Deployment of this adjunctive therapy at WRNMMC/NICoE facilitates experiential learning within the context of other patient care activities to help reduce stress, improve concentration, facilitate executive functioning, reduce irritability, promote social reintegration and promote wellness, as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.

1.4.1 The contracted workforce will be contributing to advance the clinical care, diagnosis, research and education of military service members with TBI and PH conditions. Specific objectives for each labor category are located within the duties of the PWS’s addenda. Contractors shall carry out their responsibilities in accordance with installation Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) documents to implement the Animal Assisted Therapy Program. Care, handling, and treatment of any animals associated with this program shall meet all requirements of DHA-PI 6025-18 “Animal Access to Facilities,” NSABETHINST 10570.1B, “Animals Onboard NSAB,” NATNAVMEDCEN Instruction 6800.1A, “Pet Therapy Program,” and other current guidance.

1.4.1.1 The NICoE Division of Wellness is responsible for oversight of the Animal Assisted Therapy program. Ongoing communication and monthly status reports will be maintained between the NICoE Division of Wellness, Service Animal Training Instructors (SATI), Animal Assisted Therapists, Occupational Therapists or other pertinent Health Care Providers (HCP) or referring clinicians.

1.4.2 It is anticipated that these services will provide clinical benefit for our patient population. As detailed in the statement of work, as directed, the contractor will monitor efficacy and outcomes of both individual treatment sessions and over the course of therapy. These metrics will be in conjunction with other ongoing quality assurance and outcomes projects. As with all NICoE programs, this program is subject to program evaluation to determine effectiveness and value of the services. The government reserves the right to terminate contracts that consistently fail to provide patient benefit in the form of objective and subjective outcomes.

1.4.3 At this time it is envisioned that the Animal Assisted Therapy Program shall focus on the modality of Service Dogs. This does not preclude the use of other animal assisted therapy modalities if such use should meet future needs of the Government.

1.5 Scope: Animal Assisted Therapy Program Support. The Contractor shall provide non-personal services. The Contractor shall provide Direct Health Care Provider (DHCP) and administrative services, and necessary materials to include access to appropriate (age, species, and breed type) therapy animals in support of the Animal Assisted Therapy Programs under the auspices of the NICoE. The Contractor shall provide staffing support of a nature and scope as described in the performance of work statement to include: Animal Assisted Therapist(s) and Service Animal Training Instructors.

1.5.1 This contract provides for specific staffing and also programmatic support, to include provision, feeding, housing, and care of animals which participate in the program. All animals are understood to be provided by the Contractor for the length of their participation in the program (approximately two years), and the Contractor retains ultimate responsibility for the animals once their participation in the AAT program has ended. It is envisioned that such trained animals would be matched with an appropriate U.S. Veteran to serve as a fully trained Service Animal upon completion of the program. The Government asserts no ownership or liability for the animals nor responsibility for pairing with an eligible Veteran.

1.5.1.1 The scope of this contract shall be structured utilizing a scaled approach, recognizing the potential for growth in clinical demand for these support services within the National Capitol Region throughout the life of the contract. Beginning in the Base Year, the contract shall specify a baseline level of staffing and programmatic support intended for operations within the NICoE. Subsequently, scaled options will be provided for potential Option Year use to continue the baseline effort or consider the option to expand the level of service and places of performance to encompass services in other clinical settings within WRNMMC and/or FBCH. Such scaled expansion of level of effort is solely at the discretion of the Government, and would require successful validation of ongoing program evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of performance at the baseline level of effort prior to any expansion.

1.5.1.2 Baseline and Optional Scope: A summary of the level of effort associated with the baseline scope and optional scaled expansion of effort is provided below:

1.6 Period of Performance (PoP): This rrquirement shall consist of a base year, four option years, and an optional six month extension, as detailed below:

Period of Performance (Pop) (MM/DD/YY - MM/DD/YY)

Base Period (07/15/19 – 07/14/20)

Option Period 1 (07/15/20 – 07/14/21)

Option Period 2 (07/15/21 – 07/14/22)

Option Period 3 (07/15/22 – 07/14/23)

Option Period 4 (07/15/23 – 07/14/24)

1.7 Administrative specifications

1.7.1 Place of performance: As a baseline level of effort, the work shall be performed at WRNMMC, within the purview of the NICoE and its established clinical programs. Scaled options shall be provided for in the contract for potential expansion of level of service to include additional activities within WRNMMC and/or Fort Belvoir Community Hospital (FBCH).

1.7.1.1 If needed for training or clinical purposes, the trainers may leave the military garrison within the surrounding community (e.g., metro station, retail store); however, this is expected to occur less than 5% of the time.

1.7.2 Recognized Federal holidays: The contractor is not required to perform services on Federal holidays.

1.7.3 Hours of operation: The contractor is responsible for conducting business Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the Government facility is closed due to local or national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government directed facility closings. The Contractor must at all times maintain an adequate workforce for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility is not closed for the above reasons. When hiring personnel, the Contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the workforce are essential.

1.8 Contractor travel: The Contractor may be required to travel with patients as part of the staff for therapy activities. Should the travel for such activities be funded by proffer to the Government from a recognized non-profit organization, such travel must first be approved and accepted by the Staff Judge Advocate and Medical Center Director per established procedures before the Contractor may take part.

1.8.1 Contractor will be authorized travel expenses consistent with the substantive provisions of the Joint Travel Regulation and the limitation of funds specified in this contract. All travel requires Government approval/authorization and notification to the Contracting Officer Representative (COR).

1.8.2 The National Capital Region (NCR) is defined as the District of Columbia; Montgomery, Prince George's and Frederick Counties in Maryland; Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties in Virginia. Required travel (as specified by this contract and the Contracting Officer Representative) within the NCR for performance of services on this contract is within scope and any NCR travel related expenses are non reimbursable. Required travel (as specified by this contract and the Contracting Officer Representative) outside the NCR is also within scope, but these travel related expenses are reimbursable against the applicable TRAVEL contract line item number (CLIN), based on the period of performance.

1.9 Other Direct Costs: The Government may provide funding for Other Direct Costs (ODC) associated with administrative and programmatic support, to include materials, supplies, and travel associated with this program. This is identified as CLIN X006 “Program Expenses”. The Government may also provide funding to be used for direct care and maintenance (food, grooming, equipment, veterinary care, etc.) of the animals participating in this program. It is understood that animals furnished for use in this program remain under ownership of the Contractor.

1.10 Quality

1.10.1 Quality Control (QC): The contractor shall develop and maintain an effective quality control program to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify and prevent defective services. The contractor’s quality control program is the means by which the work complies with stated requirements. The Contractor shall deliver their proposed Quality Control Plan (QCP) within 30 days after contract award. A comprehensive written QCP shall be submitted to the CO and COR within 5 working days when changes are made thereafter. After acceptance of the Quality Control Plan (QCP) the contractor shall receive the contracting officer’s (CO) acceptance in writing of any proposed change to his QC system. See Part 7, 7.6 Technical Exhibit 1 - Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) A001.

1.10.2 Quality assurance: The government will evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). The Performance Requirements Summary (PRS) (See Attachment I) forms the basis of the QASP. This plan provides a systematic method for the Government to evaluate performance and to ensure that the contractor has performed in accordance with the performance standards. It defines how the performance standards will be applied, the frequency of surveillance, and the minimum acceptable defect rate(s). The Contractor’s approved QCP informs the planned quality control efforts on the part of the contractor in coordinated response to the government’s surveillance plan.

1.11 Contractor personnel

1.11.1 Security and Common Access Card (CAC) requirements: All security and CAC requirements are identified in the attachment found in Part 7. 7.4. Contractor personnel performing work must have and maintain the appropriate security and designation required. All work under this contract is unclassified.

1.11.2 Contractor training. The contractor shall complete all requirements, training, and forms per the DHA’s Onboarding Checklist for Contractor Employees, current edition February 2018 or more recent when updated. See the form at https://info.health.mil/sites/DOP/OnboardingCtr/Contractor_OnBoarding_Checklist.pdf .

1.11.3 Cybersecurity Requirements:

1.11.3.1 Contractor Employees Who Require Access to Government Information Technology. All contractor employees requiring access to government information technology shall successfully complete the current DoD approved Cyber Awareness Challenge training prior to being granted access, and annually thereafter. This training takes approximately 30 – 60 minutes to complete and requires the student to pass a test at the conclusion. The official DoD certificate of completion must be presented to the COR. DoD Cyber Awareness Challenge must be taken utilizing the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Learning Management System , Joint Knowledge Online (JKO): http://jko.jten.mil/mhs.

1.11.4 Physical Security: The contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding all government equipment, information and property provided for contractor use. At the close of each work period, government facilities, equipment, and materials shall be secured.

1.11.5 Key control: The Contractor shall establish and implement methods of making sure all keys/key cards issued to the Contractor by the Government are not lost or misplaced and are not used by unauthorized persons. NOTE: All references to keys include key cards. No keys issued to the Contractor by the Government shall be duplicated. The Contractor shall develop procedures covering key control that shall be included in the QCP. Such procedures shall include turn-in of any issued keys by personnel who no longer require access to locked areas. The Contractor shall immediately report any occurrences of lost or duplicate keys/key cards to the CO.

1.11.5.1 In the event keys, other than master keys, are lost or duplicated, the Contractor shall, upon direction of the CO, re-key or replace the affected lock or locks; however, the Government, at its option, may replace the affected lock or locks or perform re-keying. When the replacement of locks or re-keying is performed by the Government, the total cost of re-keying or the replacement of the lock or locks shall be deducted from the monthly payment due the Contractor. In the event a master key is lost or duplicated, all locks and keys for that system shall be replaced by the Government and the total cost deducted from the monthly payment due the Contractor.

1.11.5.2 The Contractor shall prohibit the use of Government issued keys/key cards by any persons other than the Contractor’s employees. The Contractor shall prohibit the opening of locked areas by Contractor employees to permit entrance of persons other than Contractor employees engaged in the performance of assigned work in those areas, or personnel authorized entrance by the CO.

1.11.6 Lock combinations: The Contractor shall establish and implement methods of ensuring that all lock combinations are not revealed to unauthorized persons. The Contractor shall ensure that lock combinations are changed when personnel having access to the combinations no longer have a need to know such combinations. These procedures shall be included in the Contractor’s QCP.

1.12 Key personnel (Contractor): The contractor shall provide a contract manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the CO. The contract manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. The contract manager or alternate shall be available within established duty hours, Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the government facility is closed for administrative reasons.

1.13 RESERVED

1.14 Reporting

1.14.1 Contractor Manpower Reporting (CMR): The Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Personnel and Readiness (P&R) operates and maintains a secure data collection site where the Contractor shall report Contractor manpower (including subcontractor manpower). Purchases with a total contract value of $3 million or more for services in the following service acquisition portfolio groups: logistics management services, equipment related services; knowledge-based services; and electronics and communication services shall completely fill in all the information in the format using the following web address http://www.ecmra.mil/.

1.14.1.1 As part of its submission, the Contractor shall provide the estimated total cost (if any) incurred to comply with this reporting requirement. Reporting period shall be the period of performance not to exceed 12 months ending September 30 of each government fiscal year and must be reported by 31 October of each calendar year. Contractors may use a direct Extensible Markup Language (XML) data transfer to the database server or fill in the fields on the website. The XML direct transfer is a format for transferring files from a Contractor’s system to the secure website without the need for separate data entries for each required data element at the website. The specific formats for the XML direct transfer may be downloaded from the website.

1.14.1.2 Service portfolio groups are further define in DFARS PGI 237.102-74 Taxonomy for the acquisition of service and supplies and equipment.

1.14.1.3 Contractors shall direct questions to the help desk at: http://www.ecmra.mil/.

1.14.2 Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA): All DHA Government contractor personnel who will obtain access to proprietary, classified, or confidential information or any information release of which is protected or governed by law or regulation associated with DHA acquisitions shall be required to complete and sign a DHA Contractor NDA (DHA Form 49) prior to beginning work on the subject contract. The Contractor shall execute an NDA on behalf of the company and shall ensure that all staff assigned to, including all subcontractors and consultants, or other personnel performing on contract/Task order execute an NDA protecting the procurement sensitive information of the Government and the proprietary information of other contractors. The NDA shall be executed not later than first day of employment and to be renewed upon exercising a contract option period. Assignment of staff who has not executed this statement or failure to adhere to this statement shall constitute default on the part of the Contractor. The contractor shall maintain originally signed NDAs of individual employees and provide copy to the COR.

1.14.3 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The COR will be identified by separate letter. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract; perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance; maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract; issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications; monitor Contractor's performance and notifies both the CO and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property; and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting contract.

1.14.4 Post award conference/periodic progress meetings: The Contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation Subpart 42.5. The CO, COR, and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the contractor to review the contractor's performance. At these meetings the CO will apprise the contractor of how the government views the contractor's performance and the contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the government.

1.14.5 Monthly Progress Report (MPR): The Contractor shall ensure that a MPR is submitted outlining the expenditures, billings, progress, status, and any problems/ issues encountered in the performance of this task order.

1.15 Ethics

1.15.1 The contractor shall not utilize in any capacity U.S. Government employees, agents, servants, or volunteers to carry out the contractor’s duties outlined in this contract. The contractor is hereby notified that U.S. Government employees, agents, and servants are not and will not be authorized to engage in off-duty employment or activity with the contractor.

1.15.2 The contractor is prohibited from providing medical advice to WRNMMC or other government patients outside the scope of duties of this contract. The contractor is prohibited from interfering in the medical care provided to WRNMMC patients outside the scope of duties of this contract. Failure to adhere to the prohibitions contained in this paragraph will be considered a material breach.

1.15.3 While the contract is in effect, the contractor may not use billed time for activities that are solely for the benefit of the contractor, to include use of branding, advertisements, fund raising, self-promotion, solicitation of further Government work or related activities. Additionally, photographs or images depicting WRNMMC, NCR-MD or other government staff, patients or facilities shall not be used.

PART 2

2.0 DEFINITIONS & ACRONYMS

2.1 Definitions:

2.1.1 Category D: Information Technology and Telecommunications Services (called D-Services)

2.1.2 Category R: Support (Professional/Administrative/Managements) Services (called R-Services)

2.1.3 Contracting Officer (CO): A person with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts and make related determinations and findings.

2.1.4 Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): An individual, including a contracting officer’s technical representative (COTR), designated and authorized in writing by the contracting officer to perform specific technical or administrative functions. This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the contract.

2.1.5 Nonpersonal services contract: a contract under which the personnel rendering the services are not subject, either by the contract’s terms or by the manner of its administration, to the supervision and control usually prevailing in relationships between the Government and its employees.

2.1.6 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP): An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of contractor performance. The Government may either prepare the quality assurance surveillance plan or require the offerors to submit a proposed quality assurance surveillance plan for the Government’s consideration in development of the Government’s plan. The Performance Requirements Summary (PRS) forms the basis of the QASP.

2.2 Acronyms:

PART 3

3.0 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES

3.1 RESERVED

3.2 Facilities: The Government will provide the Contractor with keys or key cards for access to the Government facility if/when appropriate as determined by the COR. These keys and codes shall be controlled, tracked, and protected. Upon termination of the period of performance, all keys and/or access badges to the Government facility will be turned in to the COR.

3.3 RESERVED

3.4 Equipment: The Contractor shall maintain a detailed inventory accounting system for Government Furnished Equipment/Material or Contractor-Acquired-Government Owned Property (CAP). The inventory accounting system must specify, as a minimum: product description (make, model), Government tag number, date of receipt, name of recipient, location of receipt, current location, purchase cost (if CAP), and contract/order number under which the equipment is being used. The Contractor shall either: a) attach an update inventory report to each Monthly Progress Report, or b) certify that the inventory has been updated and is available for Government review. In either case the Contractor’s inventory listing must be available for Government review within one business day of COR request.

3.5 RESERVED

3.6 Government training: The Contractor shall ensure that all Contractor employees attend or successfully complete all mandatory Government training. The training typically encompasses matters of security and safety, and is provided during billable time at no cost to the Contractor.

PART 4

4.0 CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

4.1 General: The Contractor shall furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities and services required to perform work listed under Part 5 of this PWS. This shall include access to appropriate (age, species, and breed type) therapy animals in support of the Animal Assisted Therapy Program, as well as provision, feeding, housing, and care of animals which participate in the program.

4.2 RESERVED

4.3 RESERVED

4.4 RESERVED

4.5 Facilities: The Contractor’s facilities and animal care practices shall meet all applicable national and state standards for commercial breeders and kennels, to include the federal Animal Welfare Act and accompanying US Department of Agriculture regulations (these include, but are not limited to, 7 USC #2131 et seq. and 9 CFR #1.1 et seq.).

4.5.1 The contractor and its agents must ensure that all animal waste from the contractor’s provided animals will be removed and disposed of in accordance with installation guidance and regulations, to include NSABETHINST 10570.1B.

4.5.2 The contractor will be an Accredited Member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI), Recognized therapy dog program by American Kennel Club, or equivalent industry recognized standards organization, and comply with all standards set by that organization.

4.5.3 The Contractor shall obtain the services of a disinterested third-party licensed veterinarian to perform biannual site visits to the contractor’s facilities for housing and caring for service dogs in order to assess and ensure the continued health of service dogs associated with this program. The Contractor shall provide a copy of the veterinarian’s written report to the COR within 30 days following each visit. The cost of these veterinarian visits shall be billed as Other Direct Costs (ODC) aligned to the appropriate CLIN. As this is a hospital setting, all canines used in the program must be neat, clean and healthy. All vaccines and annual Veterinarian checkups will be administered/conducted by the contractor, with records available to the Government on request. This will include screening for parasites and communicable health conditions. At the Government’s request, an independent Veterinarian, mutually agreed upon by the contractor and Government, will examine the animals for infectious disease, parasites or general health conditions as needed.

4.6 Professional Liability: The Government will not be liable for malpractice allegations against contract employees based upon their performance under this contract. The contractor shall be required to carry malpractice insurance for all labor categories performing under this contract, at or above the level stated in the solicitation and include any resulting sub-contract required to carry out the performance of the contract, as outlined in FAR Clause 52.237-7. The Contractor will also be required to carry liability insurance which covers all furnished animals participating in the program. Upon contract award, the contractor shall provide evidence of insurance demonstrating the required coverage seven (7) days prior to commencement of performance. In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.237-7, the contractor will indemnify the Government for any liability producing act or omission by the Contractor, its employees and agents occurring during contract performance. If the contractor uses subcontractors in the performance of this contract, the contractor is required to ensure that its subcontracts for provisions of healthcare services contain the requirements of FAR 52.237-7, including the maintenance of medical liability insurance.

PART 5

5.0 SPECIFIC TASKS

☒ Non-HIT: Directorate for NICoE

5.1 Basic Services: The contractor shall provide the following services:

5.2 LEAD ANIMAL ASSISTED THERAPIST (1 FTE – BASLINE EFFORT) / ANIMAL ASSISTED THERAPIST (1 FTE – OPTIONAL SCALED EFFORT) /

5.2.1 SCOPE OF WORK: These positions are under the auspices of the NICoE. The Contractor serves as an Animal Assisted Therapist or Lead Animal Assisted Therapist at the NICoE (baseline level of effort) or optionally at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital (FBCH) for service members and their families with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Psychological Health (PH) problems.

5.2.2 QUALIFICATIONS:

5.2.2.1 Possess appropriate higher education, current state licensure in the jurisdiction in which the service is performed, and at least two years clinical experience as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), occupational therapist (OT), or a related clinical field. These positions require privileging and credentialing at WRNMMC and/or FBCH, as applicable. Must comply with all NCR-MD credentialing requirements as detailed by the Executive Committee of the Medical Staff. This includes peer review of medical documentation, discipline required continuing education, and all other requirements as detailed by regulation or directives.

5.2.2.2 Possess certification of completion of an industry-recognized Animal Assisted Therapy education program.

5.2.2.3 Have at least one year working experience as an Animal Assisted Therapist.

5.2.2.4 Have demonstrated experience working with and instructing patients with TBI and/or Psychological Health conditions.

5.2.2.5 Understand symptomology related to TBI and PTS/PTSD.

5.2.2.6 Have experience working in a healthcare environment, preferably a military medical treatment facility.

5.2.2.7 Be physically capable of performing duties required of them. Contractor personnel shall be able to perform regular and recurring bending, lifting, stooping, stretching, working in awkward positions and performing tasks related to the care and training of large breed service animals.

5.2.2.8 Must possess state motor vehicle license enabling operation of Government Owned Vehicles for the purpose of transporting rehabilitation patients and or staff as mission requires.

5.2.2.9 Speak, read, and write in fluent English.

5.2.2.10 Possess, and maintain current 2-year Basic Life Support certification approved by the American Heart Association.

5.2.2.11 Contractor personnel shall abide by all applicable Federal, state and local laws and regulations.

5.2.2.12 This position has a mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination requirement and is therefore subject to annual seasonal influenza vaccinations. Applicants tentatively selected for appointment to this position will be required to sign a statement (Condition of Employment) consenting to seasonal influenza vaccinations.

5.2.2.13 Comply with all NCR Directives including those associated with clothing and appearance (1000.7) and drug free workplace (1010.01). Compliance with hospital computer security and HIPAA requirements is also required.

5.2.3 DUTIES:

5.2.3.1 Responsible for providing clinically based interventions to MHS health care beneficiaries through the implementation of an animal assisted therapy program. Contractor will conduct individual, family, and group service animal training sessions that will provide opportunities for patients to develop improved cognitive, behavioral, social and emotional competencies. The Contractor shall conduct therapeutic service animal training sessions in accordance with program standards (e.g., based on positive methods of shaping behavior) and targeted therapeutic goals. The Contractor shall establish specific patient goals and objectives for the individual application of the animal assisted therapy program, and shall collaborate and align these goals to support with the overall clinical goals established for the patient by the referring provider / interdisciplinary team. The Contractor will provide professional judgment with a flexible use of a wide range of clinical skills to support MHS health care beneficiaries presenting many combinations of vocational, education, physical, social, and emotional problems.

5.2.3.1.1. Maintain encounter reports, metrics, patient documentation and program administrative documentation as needed according to the needs of the military program manager. To achieve this, the contractor personnel must be trained in the effective use of the military electronic medical record (EMR). As necessary, and in consultation with NICoE staff, the contractor will monitor efficacy and outcomes of both individual treatment sessions and over the course of therapy, and will provide ongoing assessment of the progress of the patient towards established clinical goals as relates to the application of the animal assisted therapy modality. These metrics will be in conjunction with other ongoing quality assurance and outcomes projects.

5.2.3.2 The contractor's work is considered technically authoritative and is usually accepted with recommendations. In thiscontext, the Contractor is responsible for independently planning, designing and carrying out actions to accomplish the mission. The Contractor is an integral and critical clinical member of the integrated diagnostic, evaluation, treatment planning, education and research teams. Contractor shall coordinate with appropriate team members to ensure compliance with HIPAA, patient goals, research guidelines, medical record requirements, and installation regulations. The Animal Assisted Therapist serves as a member of an interdisciplinary team of providers across different healthcare specialties, and provides consultative services to other team members as required.

5.2.3.2.1 The quality of professional, research and administrative work is evaluated using the quality assurance principles, policies, and regulations as mandated by appropriate certifying organizations such as the Joint Commission, and as structured by the appropriate military and local regulations and policies. Completed work shall be reviewed for effectiveness of outcomes as part of established ongoing Program Evaluation efforts. The Animal Assisted Therapist shall participate fully in assigned Quality Management / Utilization Management programs and initiatives.

5.2.3.3 Responsible for the care, training and well-being of animals entrusted to participate in the program. Contractor should be proactive in providing structured opportunities for program animals to advance in their service animal training requirements, monitor program dogs so they meet or exceed health and grooming standards, and provide fundamental socialization opportunities for service animals in training.

5.2.3.4 Coordinate, liaison and serve as NICoE representative for academic contributors / collaboration on the animal assisted therapy program.

5.2.3.5 As required, participate in research related to rehabilitative and animal assisted therapy outcomes, efficacy and interventions. Maintain all research training required by the WRNMMC Institutional Review Board such as CITI training.

5.2.3.6 Act as an educational resource for Wounded Warriors and their families who have questions surrounding service animals and/or display interest in applying for a service animal in the future.

5.2.3.7 Responsible for advocating for the industry’s use of service animals in clinically appropriate and therapeutic ways, (e.g., reducing isolation, recognizing stress cues), rather than uses that reinforce negative symptomology (e.g., blocking, security, intimidation).

5.2.3.8 Represent and serve as an advocate for Wounded Warriors and their families in obtaining services and support related to service animals for their individual and/or special needs; follows through on each case to ensure that provisions for ongoing social services are identified and initiated prior to the Warrior's return to the community.

5.2.3.9 Identify and refer families who may be candidates for the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) in accordance with DoD policies and procedures. In the determination of family violence, intervenes in accordance with policy and program guidance as specified by the Family Advocacy Program - DoD Directive 6400.1.

5.2.3.10 Serve as a subject-matter expert on the roles that service animals can have in addressing psychosocial problems in collaboration with clinicians in other medical specialties.

5.2.3.11 Work in collaboration with interdisciplinary team consisting of, but not limited to, physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and case managers. Complies with all plans of care and medical instructions for patients issued by Licensed Independent Providers (LIP) such as physicians, therapists, and psychologists.

5.2.3.12 Coordinate and collaborate with other agencies within the DoD, to include the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), the Defense Health Agency and its component centers, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as well as other federal and civilian academic collaborators.

5.2.3.13 The Contractor may be required to travel with patients as part of the staff for therapy activities. Should the travel for such activities be funded by proffer to the Government from a recognized non-profit organization, such travel must first be approved and accepted by the Staff Judge Advocate and Medical Center Director per established procedures before the Contractor may take part.

5.2.3.14 Dress professionally yet appropriately for constant interaction with animals and patients in a hospital setting.

5.2.3.15 In addition, the Lead Animal Assisted Therapist shall:

5.2.3.15.1 Function as project manager and program liaison for all operations under this contract.

5.2.3.15.2 Provide coordination and management of contractor team members responsible for treating beneficiaries, ensuring that the highest standards of professional practice and ethics are maintained, as well as ensuring that hospital based training and associated requirements are met.

5.2.3.15.3 In coordination with the Lead, Division of Wellness and other NICoE/WRNMMC clinical leadership, participate fully in established Program Evaluation and Quality Management / Utilization Management programs and initiatives for improvement of warrior and family services and clinical operations related to the implementation of and conduct of quality improvement strategies.

5.2.3.15.4 Participate fully in the Peer Review Program as appropriate for the specific licensed clinical specialty of the contract provider.

5.2.3.16 Overtime: Overtime is not authorized. Duty hours will generally be within the normally established core clinical hours for the facility. Core operating hours for the facility are between 0700 and 1700 daily, excluding weekends and Federal holidays.

5.3 SERVICE ANIMAL TRAINING INSTRUCTOR (2 FTE – BASELINE EFFORT / 2 FTE OPTIONAL SCALED EFFORT):

5.3.1 Scope of Work: The Service Animal Training Instructor (SATI) shall provide instruction for health care beneficiaries participating in the Animal Assisted Therapy Program. The SATI shall be assigned to the NICoE Division of Wellness and shall carry out training in accordance with the Animal Assisted Therapy Program model currently established through clinical oversight by the NICoE. This program focuses on the needs of patients with post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury who benefit from training purposely bred animals to become certified service animals that will be issued to Veterans. The SATI will deliver services within the auspices of the NICoE (baseline level of effort) or optionally within FBCH or other clinical locations within WRNMMC, if option(s) so exercised, as required.

5.3.1.1 SATIs are required to comply with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy and Security regulations. The Contractor and contract personnel must abide by all applicable HIPAA Privacy and Security requirements regarding health information.

5.3.2 QUALIFICATIONS:

5.3.2.1 Have one (1) year working experience as a service animal trainer.

5.3.2.2 Have completed a certified service animal training program no less than 6-12 months or a combination of education and work experience in the field of service animal training for a minimum of 18 months.

5.3.2.3 Have demonstrated experience working with and instructing patients with Mental Health and/or TBI symptoms.

5.3.2.4 Understand symptomology related to TBI and PTS/PTSD.

5.3.2.5 Have experience working in a healthcare environment, preferably a military medical treatment facility.

5.3.2.6 Be physically capable of performing duties required of them. Contractor personnel shall be able to perform regular and recurring bending, lifting, stooping, stretching, working in awkward positions and performing tasks related to the care and training of large breed service animals.

5.3.2.7 Must possess state motor vehicle license enabling operation of Government Owned Vehicles for the purpose of transporting rehabilitation patients and or staff as mission requires.

5.3.2.8 Speak, read, and write in fluent English.

5.3.2.9 Possess current two (2)-year Basic Life Support certification approved by the American Heart Association

5.3.2.10 Comply with all NCR Directives including those associated with clothing and appearance (1000.7) and drug free workplace (1010.01). Compliance with hospital computer security and HIPAA requirements is also required. Abide by all applicable Federal, state and local laws and regulations.

5.3.2.11 All SATIs will have copies of records identifying their educational and experience background. Such documentation will be maintained by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

5.3.3 DUTIES:

5.3.3.1 Maintain requisite encounter reports, metrics, relevant documentation and program administrative documentation as needed according to the needs of the military program manager. In conjunction with the Animal Assisted Therapists, and in consultation with NICoE staff, the contractor will assist in monitoring efficacy and outcomes of both individual treatment sessions and over the course of therapy.

5.3.3.1.1. Specific patient goals and objectives will be identified by a Therapist or referring clinician, communicated to the SATI and updated through collaboration between the SATI, Therapist, and referring clinician as the patient progresses through the program. The SATI will accompany and monitor patient trainers at all times with animals in training unless specific training objectives require independent activities and have been communicated, approved and agreed upon between the NICoE Division of Wellness, SATI and referring Therapist / Clinician.

5.3.3.1.2 The SATI will function as an integral part of the treatment team, under direction of the Animal Assisted Therapist or other Licensed Independent Provider (LIP) as appropriate to the individual patient needs. The LIP shall determine the appropriate extent of independent activities to be performed by the SATI.

5.3.3.2 Assist, support, and accommodate as much as possible without interrupting patient care those meetings/visits from officially recognized guests such as commanders, leadership, congressional affairs, or other visitors as requested by or coordinated through NICoE leadership. Provide training to recovering patients at program site and in the local area in accordance with program standards and therapeutic goals. Demonstrate and execute all technical skills required in instructing patients how to train an animal to become a full service animal. Provide varying levels of training instruction to meet patient-trainer’s various stages of recovery.

5.3.3.3 The Contractor may be required to travel with patients as part of the staff for therapy activities. Should the travel for such activities be funded by proffer to the Government from a recognized non-profit organization, such travel must first be approved and accepted by the Staff Judge Advocate and Medical Center Director per established procedures before the Contractor may take part.

5.3.3.4 Provide instruction in proper animal care, grooming, handling and commands. Coordinate patient trainer participation calendar/schedules. Develop and execute community training activities. Communicate and coordinate with patient treatment team regarding patient’s level of participation, treatment goals, and progress. Develop training goals for patient Trainers and animals in training in collaboration with clinical providers to ensure training goals are addressing clinical treatment goals. Promote integration of animals into wellness and therapeutic activities.

5.3.3.5 Dress professionally yet appropriately for constant interaction with animals and patients in a hospital environment.

5.3.3.6 Organize and participate in community reintegration activities that will assist in socializing animals and patients as part of the therapeutic program. Coordinate with Recreational Therapy as needed to join community reintegration programs with other patients. Community events may occur within or outside the National Capital Regional and may include Fort Belvoir or other NCR MTF patients.

5.3.3.7 Community reintegration events may involve use of Government Owned Vehicles. Contractors as part of this contact are authorized to operate Government Owned Vehicles in order to perform required community reintegration activities/events.

5.3.3.8 Contractors are authorized to plan, organize,…