STATE OF ALASKA

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSALS

OFFERORS ARE NOT REQUIRED TO RETURN THIS FORM.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: IF YOU RECEIVED THIS SOLICITATION FROM THE STATE OF ALASKA’S

“ONLINE PUBLIC NOTICE” WEB SITE, YOU MUST REGISTER WITH THE PROCUREMENT OFFICER

LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT TO RECEIVE NOTIFICATION OF SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS. FAILURE

TO CONTACT THE PROCUREMENT OFFICER MAY RESULT IN THE REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER.

ISSUED BY:

DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

PRIMARY CONTACT:

ALLAN OYAO

PROCUREMENT OFFICER

ALLAN.OYAO@ALASKA.GOV

(907) 269-5910

SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER (SUD)

TREATMENT SERVICES

HMCC, EAGLE RIVER, AK

RFP 2027-2000-0001

ISSUED FEBRUARY 17, 2026

mailto:allan.oyao@alaska.gov

STATE OF ALASKA – REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RFP 2027-2000-0001

SUD TREATMENT SERVICES (HMCC)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION & INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.01 PURPOSE OF THE RFP

SEC. 1.02 BUDGET

SEC. 1.03 DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.04 PRIOR EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

SEC. 1.05 REQUIRED REVIEW

SEC. 1.06 QUESTIONS PRIOR TO THE DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.07 RETURN INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.08 ASSISTANCE TO OFFERORS WITH DISABILITY

SEC. 1.09 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.10 AMENDMENTS TO THE RFP

SEC. 1.11 RFP SCHEDULE

SEC. 1.12 ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

SEC. 1.13 NEWS RELEASES

SECTION 2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SEC. 2.01 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SECTION 3. SCOPE OF WORK & CONTRACT INFORMATION

SEC. 3.01 SCOPE OF WORK

SEC. 3.02 CONTRACT TERM AND WORK SCHEDULE

SEC. 3.03 GENERAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 3.04 DELIVERABLES

SEC. 3.05 REQUIRED CONDUCT

SEC. 3.06 DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 3.07 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 3.08 SECURITY BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS AND POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

SEC. 3.09 CONTRACT TYPE

SEC. 3.10 PROPOSED PAYMENT PROCEDURES

SEC. 3.11 PROMPT PAYMENT FOR STATE PURCHASES

SEC. 3.12 CONTRACT PAYMENT

SEC. 3.13 LOCATION OF WORK

SEC. 3.14 SUBCONTRACTORS

SEC. 3.15 JOINT VENTURES

SEC. 3.16 RIGHT TO INSPECT PLACE OF BUSINESS

SEC. 3.17 F.O.B. POINT

SEC. 3.18 CONTRACT PERSONNEL

SEC. 3.19 TRAVEL

SEC. 3.20 INSPECTION & MODIFICATION - REIMBURSEMENT FOR UNACCEPTABLE DELIVERABLES

SEC. 3.21 CONTRACT CHANGES - UNANTICIPATED AMENDMENTS

SEC. 3.22 INVESTIGATIONS AND LITIGATIONS

SEC. 3.23 TRANSITION AT THE END OF THE CONTRACT

SEC. 3.24 RIGHT TO AUDIT RECORDS

SEC. 3.25 NONDISCLOSURE AND CONFIDENTIALITY

SEC. 3.26 INDEMNIFICATION

SEC. 3.27 INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

SEC. 3.28 SERVICE DEFICIENCY CLAIM

SEC. 3.29 SECURITY SPECIFICATION

SEC. 3.30 TERMINATION FOR DEFAULT

SECTION 4. PROPOSAL FORMAT AND CONTENT

SEC. 4.01 INTRODUCTION

SEC. 4.02 PROPOSAL CONTENTS

SEC. 4.03 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

SEC. 4.04 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT

SEC. 4.05 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT

SEC. 4.06 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROJECT

SEC. 4.07 COST PROPOSAL

SEC. 4.08 EVALUATION CRITERIA

SECTION 5. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND CONTRACTOR SELECTION

SEC. 5.01 SUMMARY OF EVALUATION PROCESS

SEC. 5.02 EVALUATION CRITERIA

SEC. 5.03 SCORING METHOD AND CALCULATION

SEC. 5.04 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS (10%)

SEC. 5.05 UNDERSTANDING OF THE PROJECT (20%)

SEC. 5.06 METHODOLOGY USED FOR THE PROJECT (10%)

SEC. 5.07 MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR PROJECT (10%)

SEC. 5.08 CONTRACT COST (40%)

SEC. 5.09 ALASKA OFFEROR PREFERENCE (10%)

SECTION 6. GENERAL PROCESS AND LEGAL INFORMATION

SEC. 6.01 INFORMAL DEBRIEFING

SEC. 6.02 ALASKA BUSINESS LICENSE AND OTHER REQUIRED LICENSES

SEC. 6.03 SITE INSPECTION

SEC. 6.04 CLARIFICATION OF OFFERS

SEC. 6.05 DISCUSSION WITH OFFERORS

SEC. 6.06 EVALUATION OF PROPOSALS

SEC. 6.07 CONTRACT NEGOTIATION

SEC. 6.08 FAILURE TO NEGOTIATE

SEC. 6.09 OFFEROR NOTIFICATION OF SELECTION

SEC. 6.10 PROTEST

SEC. 6.11 APPLICATION OF PREFERENCES

SEC. 6.12 ALASKA BIDDER PREFERENCE

SEC. 6.13 ALASKA VETERAN PREFERENCE

SEC. 6.14 STANDARD CONTRACT PROVISION

SEC. 6.15 QUALIFIED OFFERORS

SEC. 6.16 PROPOSAL AS PART OF THE CONTRACT

SEC. 6.17 ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SEC. 6.18 HUMAN TRAFFICKING

SEC. 6.19 RIGHT OF REJECTION

SEC. 6.20 STATE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR PREPARATION COSTS

SEC. 6.21 DISCLOSURE OF PROPOSAL CONTENTS

SEC. 6.22 ASSIGNMENT

SEC. 6.23 DISPUTES

SEC. 6.24 SEVERABILITY

SEC. 6.25 SUPPLEMENTAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SEC. 6.26 SOLICITATION ADVERTISING

SEC. 6.27 FEDERALLY IMPOSED TARIFFS

SECTION 7. ATTACHMENTS

SEC. 6.28 ATTACHMENTS

SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION & INSTRUCTIONS

SEC. 1.01 PURPOSE OF THE RFP

The Department of Corrections, Division of Health and Rehabilitation Services, is soliciting proposals from qualified vendors to provide substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services at Hiland Mountain Correctional Center in Eagle River, Alaska, and Anchorage Central Office in Anchorage, Alaska.

The successful offeror will be part of a multi-disciplinary team working within the correctional institutions to provide substance use disorder screenings, assessments, evidence-based treatment programs, and substance use disorder project management oversight.

SEC. 1.02 BUDGET

Department of Corrections, Division of Health and Rehabilitation Services, has an established budget for this contract. Funds are limited, and negotiations may be necessary depending upon the costs included within the proposals submitted. Approval or continuation of a contract resulting from this RFP is contingent upon legislative appropriation of funding and programmatic needs.

Payment for the contract is subject to funds already appropriated and identified.

SEC. 1.03 DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS

Proposals must be received no later than 2:00 PM prevailing AKST on March 18, 2026, as indicated by postmark or email timestamp, and late proposals will not be considered.

SEC. 1.04 PRIOR EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

In order for offers to be considered responsive, offerors must meet these minimum prior experience and qualification requirements:

• The offeror must be qualified to provide substance use disorder treatment services within the State of Alaska prior to contract award. To be qualified to provide substance use disorder treatment in Alaska, the offeror must possess a Department Approval Certificate from the Department of Health (DOH) Division of Behavioral Health (DBH) as outlined in 7 AAC 70.030.

An offeror shall produce the DOH certificate within 30 calendar days of the Department’s request.

Offerors unable to submit an approved DHSS Certificate within the time required will cause their proposal to be considered non-responsive, and their proposal will be rejected.

An offeror's failure to meet these minimum prior experience requirements will cause their proposal to be considered non-responsive and rejected.

Minimum Staffing Qualifications:

All staff working under this contract must hold a Qualified Addiction Professional (QAP) full approval designation from the Department of Health (DOH), Division of Behavioral Health (DBH). If a staff member does not have a QAP full approval designation, they must have provisional approval as a QAP from DOH DBH and submit the SUD Training Plan to the department for approval prior to beginning any work under this contract. Regardless of QAP designation, all contract staff are subject to approval by the Chief Mental Health Officer or designee.

In addition to the QAP designation, individual roles must have the following experience and/or education:

1. Project Manager

a. Experience: Administrative and supervisory experience, skills, and abilities. The project manager must be an expert in substance use disorders and their treatment, and have demonstrated experience applying their knowledge. Additionally, the project manager must have experience and skills in substance use disorder service coordination, quality assurance, training, and management.

2. Coordinator:

a. Experience: Administrative and supervisory experience, skills, and abilities. Coordinators must be experts in substance use disorders and their treatment, and have demonstrated experience applying their knowledge.

3. SUD Counselor

a. Experience: Experience and knowledge of substance use disorders and their treatment.

4. Co-Occurring Disorder Counselor

a. Experience: Experience and knowledge of substance use disorders and their treatment, and extensive knowledge of DSM diagnoses.

b. Education: Master’s degree from an accredited college in psychology, sociology, mental health counseling, marriage and family therapy, social work, or a closely related field.

SEC. 1.05 REQUIRED REVIEW

Offerors should carefully review this solicitation for defects and questionable or objectionable material.

Comments concerning defects and questionable or objectionable material should be made in writing and received by the procurement officer at least ten days before the deadline for receipt of proposals. This will allow time for the issuance of any necessary amendments. It will also help prevent the opening of a defective proposal and exposure of the offeror's proposals upon which an award could not be made.

SEC. 1.06 QUESTIONS PRIOR TO THE DEADLINE FOR PROPOSALS

All questions must be in writing and directed to the procurement officer. The interested party must confirm telephone conversations in writing. The deadline for receipt of questions is March 6, 2026.

Two types of questions generally arise. One may be answered by directing the questioner to a specific section of the RFP. These questions may be answered over the telephone. Other questions may be more complex and may require a written amendment to the RFP. The procurement officer will make that decision.

Procurement Officer: Allan Oyao – Phone: (907) 269-5910 – Email: allan.oyao@alaska.gov

SEC. 1.07 RETURN INSTRUCTIONS

Offerors must submit one hard copy of their proposal to the procurement officer in a sealed package. The cost proposal included with the package must be sealed separately from the rest of the proposal and must be clearly identified. The sealed proposal package(s) must be addressed as follows, regardless of delivery method:

Department of Corrections Attention: Allan Oyao

RFP Number: 2027-2000-0001 Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services (HMCC)

550 W 7th Ave, Suite 1800 Anchorage, AK 99501

If submitting a proposal via email, the technical proposal and cost proposal must be saved as separate PDF documents and emailed to allan.oyao@alaska.gov as separate, clearly labeled attachments, such as “Vendor A – Technical Proposal.pdf” and “Vendor A – Cost Proposal.pdf” (Vendor A is the name of the offeror). The email must contain the RFP number in the subject line.

The maximum size of a single email (including all text and attachments) that can be received by the state is 20mb (megabytes). If the email containing the proposal exceeds this size, the proposal must be sent in multiple emails that are each less than 20 megabytes, and each email must comply with the requirements described above.

Please note that email transmission is not instantaneous. Similar to sending a hard copy proposal, if you are emailing your proposal, the state recommends sending it enough ahead of time to ensure the email is delivered by the deadline for receipt of proposals.

It is the offeror’s responsibility to contact the issuing agency at (907) 269-5910 or by email (preferred) to confirm that the proposal has been received. The state is not responsible for unreadable, corrupt, or missing attachments.

SEC. 1.08 ASSISTANCE TO OFFERORS WITH DISABILITY

Offerors with a disability may receive accommodation regarding the means of communicating this RFP or participating in the procurement process. For more information, contact the procurement officer no later than ten days prior to the deadline for receipt of proposals.

SEC. 1.09 AMENDMENTS TO PROPOSALS

Amendments to or withdrawals of proposals will only be allowed if acceptable requests are received prior to the deadline that is set for receipt of proposals. No amendments or withdrawals will be accepted after the deadline unless they are in response to the state's request in accordance with 2 AAC 12.290.

SEC. 1.10 AMENDMENTS TO THE RFP

If an amendment is issued before the deadline for receipt of proposals, the amendment will be posted on the State of Alaska Online Public Notice (OPN) website. The link to the posting of the amendment will be provided to all who were notified of the RFP and to those who have registered with the procurement officer after receiving the RFP from the OPN.

After receipt of proposals, if there is a need for any substantial clarification or material change in the RFP, an amendment will be issued. The amendment will incorporate the clarification or change, and a new date and time will be established for new or amended proposals. Evaluations may be adjusted as a result of receiving new or amended proposals.

SEC. 1.11 RFP SCHEDULE

The RFP schedule set out herein represents the state’s best estimate of the schedule that will be followed.

If a component of this schedule, such as the deadline for receipt of proposals, is delayed, the rest of the schedule may be shifted accordingly. All times are Alaska Standard Time.

ACTIVITY TIME DATE

Issue Date / RFP Released 2/17/2026 Deadline to Receipt Questions 3/6/2026 Deadline for Receipt of Proposals 2:00 PM AKST 3/18/2026 Proposal Evaluations Complete 3/23/2026 Notice of Intent to Award 3/24/2026 Contract Issued 7/1/2026

This RFP does not, by itself, obligate the state. The state's obligation will commence when the contract is approved by the Commissioner of the Department of Corrections or the Commissioner's designee. Upon written notice to the contractor, the state may set a different starting date for the contract. The state will not be responsible for any work done by the contractor, even work done in good faith, if it occurs prior to the contract start date set by the state.

SEC. 1.12 ALTERNATE PROPOSALS

Offerors may only submit one proposal for evaluation. In accordance with 2 AAC 12.830, alternate proposals (proposals that offer something different than what is asked for) will be rejected.

SEC. 1.13 NEWS RELEASES

News releases related to this RFP will not be made without prior approval of the project director.

SECTION 2. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

SEC. 2.01 BACKGROUND INFORMATION

The Alaska Department of Corrections offers evidence-based substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services, intended to reduce recidivism by equipping justice-involved individuals with the tools necessary for successful rehabilitation. These services reflect the department’s mission to offer meaningful reformative opportunities to all individuals in its care and custody. Through targeted programs and support, the department aims to prepare participants to reenter society with the skills to maintain a crime-free, pro-social lifestyle and effectively manage their substance use disorder.

SUDs are widespread among the incarcerated population, with issues often co-occurring with other mental health disorders, creating a complex web of comorbidity that complicates treatment and rehabilitation efforts. Factors contributing to the high prevalence of SUDs among justice-involved individuals include a history of trauma, mental health disorders, socioeconomic factors, and the correctional environment itself, which can be stressful and conducive to substance misuse.

In an effort to address the needs of the incarcerated population and reduce recidivism, the department has services and programs in place, including screenings, assessments, Psychoeducational (Psych-ed) programming, Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment (IOPSAT), Co-occurring Disorder (COD) IOPSAT, Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT), and Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD). Additionally, referrals are provided to the appropriate levels of care within the community to better serve the SUD population and promote continuity of care upon release.

The services listed in this RFP are for the Hiland Mountain Correctional Center and the Anchorage Central Office. Hiland Mountain Correctional Center, located at 9101 Hesterberg Road, Eagle River, AK 99577, is the State’s dedicated facility for housing female justice-involved individuals and has the capacity to house approximately 400 individuals. Anchorage Central Office, located at 550 W 7th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, is the department’s Anchorage headquarters location.

SECTION 3. SCOPE OF WORK & CONTRACT INFORMATION

SEC. 3.01 SCOPE OF WORK

The Department of Corrections, Division of Health and Rehabilitation Services (department), is soliciting a request for proposals for six (6) positions providing evidence-based substance use disorder treatment services at Hiland Mountain Correctional Center (HMCC) in Eagle River, Alaska and an additional one

(1) position providing services and oversight from Anchorage Central Office (ACO) in Anchorage, Alaska. All services are to be provided as specified in this RFP, including screenings, assessments, referrals to treatment, release planning, SUD treatment programming, and SUD project management.

The offeror will work directly with the Institutional Probation Officers (IPOs), onsite medical and mental health department staff, and the Chief Mental Health Officer or designee. The department retains overall responsibility for establishing and monitoring contract funding and program priorities. Services will be provided in person.

The successful offeror will be part of a multidisciplinary team and will be expected to be an expert on substance use disorder treatment and make recommendations.

Offerors must propose to provide services that meet the minimum requirements in this RFP. Services in excess of those established by the department (or in excess of those approved under the finalized contract) must be approved in writing and in advance by the department.

Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)

1. All contract staff will be required to provide screenings using the ASAM Co-Triage for all referred justice-involved individuals within the institution.

o Any individual placed on withdrawal protocols will be considered a referred individual.

2. These screenings will be performed within a group setting or on an individual basis, depending on the setting. The contractor must be present to answer questions and collect the Co-Triage once the individual has completed the form. Once completed, the contractor shall enter the results of the Co- Triage into the department’s Electronic Healthcare Record.

3. Once all referral forms are completed, the contractor shall retain a copy for the individual’s file. If the individual has completed the appropriate release form, the contractor will distribute a hardcopy to the institution contact in accordance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.

4. Based on the results of the screening, if necessary, the contractor will use motivational interviewing strategies, typically four (4) individual sessions, to focus on raising an individual’s awareness of their substance use, the potential harmful effects of that use, and encouraging positive change.

5. Brief intervention services may include, but are not limited to, feedback, goal setting, coping strategies, and identification of risk factors.

6. If the screening reveals that the recipient meets any of the circumstances identified below, the contractor will refer the recipient for an assessment while incarcerated:

a. is releasing to the community;

b. is at risk of substance use problems;

c. is substance dependent; or

d. has already received brief interventions or treatment and was non-responsive.

7. If the individual reports verbally or on the screening tool that they have had health problems related to stopping alcohol or other drugs when may include feeling sick, nausea, tremors, convulsions, delirium tremens (DT’s), or other symptoms the contractor shall report this information immediately to the nearest institutional contact such as medical staff, a correctional officer, or a probation officer.

The contractor will follow up this report with a written referral to medical as soon as possible, but no later than within 24 hours.

Substance Use Disorder Assessments

1. All contract staff will be required to provide assessments using the ASAM Comprehensive Assessments for all referred individuals with the purpose of determining the level of substance use disorder treatment needs based on the ASAM criteria.

2. The contractor must maintain a list of all individuals referred for an assessment and prioritize the list by release date, coordination requirements for medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), and legal requirements.

3. The contractor will conduct assessments on all referrals using the ASAM CONTINUUM computer-guided software. The department will provide access to this program at no cost to the contractor

HMCC Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT)

The Female Institutional RSAT Program (program) is an ASAM Level 3.5 program. When successfully completed, this program qualifies as an approved legal system substance use disorder treatment program.

Individuals in the program are required to participate for 26 weeks, with early program completions or program extensions possible as detailed in SEC 3.06 DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS. The first two weeks will be spent in orientation, followed by the core treatment phase.

1. Program Length – Individuals in the program will participate for 26 weeks.

a. Week 1-2: Orientation

i. Three (3) groups per week. Each group is two (2) hours in duration

ii. One (1) individual session per individual during the course of orientation

b. Week 3-26: Core Treatment Phase

i. Ten (10) clinical groups per week. Each group is one and a half (1.5) hours in duration

ii. Five (5) supplemental groups per week. Each group is one (1) hour in duration

iii. Five (5) hours per week of milieu-specific groups

iv. Nine (9) individual counseling sessions per individual during the course of the core treatment phase.

2. Target Population - Individuals who have a SUD along with related criminal histories are appropriate for this program. The priority population will be individuals who have been screened as needing this level of substance use disorder treatment, who are sentenced felons, who have a classification level of medium or higher, and who would not be successful in another program due to mental health complications. Individuals will be prioritized based on legal requirements and release date. Individuals will be eligible for the program if members of the priority population are not available.

3. Curriculum - The program curriculum will be premised upon the A New Direction and Helping Women Recover workbooks. Many groups (both in orientation and core treatment phase) will focus on a workbook and a specific exercise, or exercises, within that workbook. Supplemental evidence-based curriculum may be used with written approval from the department. The contractor shall follow the facilitator guidelines set forth in the curriculum:

a. Orientation

i. A New Direction, Module 1

b. Core Treatment Phase

i. A New Direction, Modules 2-7

ii. Helping Women Recover, Modules A-D

iii. Moving On: A Program for At-Risk Women, Modules 1-6

4. Group Elements – Each of the following elements shall be incorporated into a group on a daily basis. More than once a day is not expected.

a. Daily Announcements: As they relate to the functioning of the community;

b. Daily Inspiration: Using the following books: Each Day a New Beginning and Free at Last;

c. Assignments: This is a short section of the group wherein the Coordinator/Counselor outlines the expectations for the next group.

d. Community issues: This section is used to read out loud and discuss, written behavioral concerns – positive or negative.

5. Group Size – It is possible for some of these groups to break into small groups (or larger), depending on the material and exercises being covered; however, the clinical oversight and time obligations remain the contractor’s responsibility.

6. Individual Counseling Sessions – Individual counseling sessions shall focus on the individual’s workbook assignments. It is also an opportunity to address the individual’s level of progress, engagement in the program, and updates to their SUD treatment plan.

7. Peer mentors – The contractor will be responsible for the training and implementation of peer mentors within the program, who will be used to assist with clients’ recovery during their treatment process. Peer support workers engage in a wide range of activities, including advocacy, linkage to resources, sharing of experience, community and relationship building, assisting with group facilitation, skill building, mentoring, goal setting, and more. Ratios of one (1) peer mentor for every 12 participants actively enrolled in SUD programming should be utilized unless approved in writing by the department. The following principles will be followed for peer mentoring:

a. Recovery-Oriented: Peer mentors help program participants identify and build strengths, and empower them to choose for themselves, recognizing that there are multiple pathways to recovery.

b. Person-Centered: Peer recovery support is personalized to align with the specific hopes, goals, and preferences of the individual served and to respond to specific needs the individual has identified.

c. Voluntary: Peer mentors do not dictate the types of services provided or the elements of recovery plans that will guide their work with peers. Participation in peer recovery support services is always contingent on peer choice.

d. Relationship-Focused: The relationship between the peer mentor and the peer is respectful, trusting, empathetic, collaborative, and mutual.

e. Trauma-Informed: Peer recovery support utilizes a strengths-based framework that emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety and creates opportunities for survivors to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.

HMCC Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment (IOPSAT)

The female institutional Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment (IOPSAT) program is an ASAM Level 2.1 program. When successfully completed, this program qualifies as an approved legal system substance use disorder treatment program. Individuals in the program are required to participate for 15 weeks, with early program completions or program extensions possible as detailed in SEC 3.06 DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS. The first two weeks will be spent in orientation, followed by the core treatment phase.

1. Program Length – Individuals in the program will participate for 15 weeks.

a. Week 1-2: Orientation

i. Three (3) groups per week. Each group is two (2) hours in duration

ii. One (1) individual session per individual during the course of orientation

b. Week 3-15: Core Treatment Phase

i. Ten (10) clinical groups per week. Each group is one and a half (1.5) hours in duration

ii. Four (4) individual counseling sessions per individual during the course of the core treatment phase

2. Target Population - Individuals who have a SUD along with related criminal histories are appropriate for this program. The priority population will be individuals who have been screened as needing this level of substance use disorder treatment, who are sentenced felons, who have a classification level of medium or higher, and who would not be successful in another program due to mental health complications. Individuals will be prioritized based on legal requirements and release date. Individuals will be eligible for the program if members of the priority population are not available.

3. Curriculum - The program curriculum will be premised upon the A New Direction. Many groups (both in orientation and core treatment phase) will focus on a workbook and a specific exercise, or exercises, within that workbook. Supplemental evidence-based curriculum may be used with written approval from the department. The contractor shall follow the facilitator guidelines set forth in the curriculum:

a. Orientation

i. A New Direction, Module 1

b. Core Treatment Phase

i. A New Direction, Modules 2-7

ii. Supplemental: Living in Balance

4. Group Size – It is possible for some of these groups to break into small groups (or larger), depending on the material and exercises being covered; however, the clinical oversight and time obligations remain the contractor’s responsibility.

5. Individual Counseling Sessions – Individual counseling sessions shall focus on the individual’s workbook assignments. It is also an opportunity to address the individual’s level of progress, engagement in the program, and updates to their SUD treatment plan.

6. Peer mentors – The contractor will be responsible for the training and implementation of peer mentors within the program that will be used to assist with clients’ recovery during their treatment process. Peer mentors engage in a wide range of activities, including advocacy, linkage to resources, sharing of experience, community and relationship building, assisting with group facilitation, skill building, mentoring, goal setting, and more. Ratios of one (1) peer mentor for every 12 participants actively enrolled in SUD programming should be utilized unless approved in writing by the department. The following principles will be followed for peer mentoring:

a. Recovery-Oriented: Peer mentors help program participants identify and build strengths, and empower them to choose for themselves, recognizing that there are multiple pathways to recovery.

b. Person-Centered: Peer recovery support is personalized to align with the specific hopes, goals, and preferences of the individual served and to respond to specific needs the individual has identified.

c. Voluntary: Peer mentors do not dictate the types of services provided or the elements of recovery plans that will guide their work with peers. Participation in peer recovery support services is always contingent on peer choice.

d. Relationship-Focused: The relationship between the peer mentor and the peer is respectful, trusting, empathetic, collaborative, and mutual.

e. Trauma-Informed: Peer recovery support utilizes a strengths-based framework that emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety and creates opportunities for survivors to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.

HMCC Co-Occurring Disorders (COD) Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment

(IOPSAT)

The institutional Co-Occurring Disorders (COD) Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment (IOPSAT) program is an ASAM Level 2.1 program for individuals with mental health issues, as well as SUD. When successfully completed, this program qualifies as an approved legal system substance use disorder treatment program. Individuals in the program are required to participate for 20 weeks, with early program completions or program extensions possible as detailed in SEC 3.06 DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS. The first two weeks will be spent in orientation, followed by the core treatment phase.

1. Program Length – Individuals in the program will participate for 20 weeks.

a. Week 1-2: Orientation

i. Five (5) groups per week. Each group is two (2) hours in duration

ii. One (1) individual session per individual during the course of orientation

b. Week 3-20: Core Treatment Phase

i. Ten (10) clinical groups per week. Each group is one and a half (1.5) hours in duration

ii. Eight (8) individual counseling sessions per individual during the course of the core treatment phase

2. Target Population - Individuals who have SUD along with related criminal histories are appropriate for this program. The priority population will be individuals who have been screened as needing this level of substance use disorder treatment, who are sentenced felons, who have a classification level of medium or higher, and who would not be successful in another program due to mental health complications. Individuals will be prioritized based on legal requirements and release date. Individuals will be eligible for the program if members of the priority population are not available.

3. Curriculum - The program curriculum will be premised upon the A New Direction workbooks.

Many groups (both in orientation and core treatment phase) will focus on a workbook and a specific exercise, or exercises, within that workbook. Supplemental evidence-based curriculum may be used with written approval from the department. The contractor shall follow the facilitator guidelines set forth in the curriculum:

a. Orientation

i. A New Direction, Module 1

b. Core Treatment Phase

i. A New Direction, Modules 2-7

4. Group Size – It is possible for some of these groups to break into small groups (or larger), depending on the material and exercises being covered; however, the clinical oversight and time obligations remain the contractor’s responsibility.

5. Individual Counseling Sessions – Individual counseling sessions shall focus on the individual’s workbook assignments. It is also an opportunity to address the individual’s level of progress, engagement in the program, and updates to their SUD treatment plan.

6. Peer mentors – The contractor will be responsible for the training and implementation of peer mentors within the program that will be used to assist with clients’ recovery during their treatment process. Peer mentors engage in a wide range of activities, including advocacy, linkage to resources, sharing of experience, community and relationship building, assisting with group facilitation, skill building, mentoring, goal setting, and more. Ratios of one (1) peer mentor for every 10 participants actively enrolled in SUD programming should be utilized unless approved in writing by the department. The following principles will be followed for peer mentoring:

a. Recovery-Oriented: Peer mentors help program participants identify and build strengths, and empower them to choose for themselves, recognizing that there are multiple pathways to recovery.

b. Person-Centered: Peer recovery support is personalized to align with the specific hopes, goals, and preferences of the individual served and to respond to specific needs the individual has identified.

c. Voluntary: Peer mentors do not dictate the types of services provided or the elements of recovery plans that will guide their work with peers. Participation in peer recovery support services is always contingent on peer choice.

d. Relationship-Focused: The relationship between the peer mentor and the peer is respectful, trusting, empathetic, collaborative, and mutual.

e. Trauma-Informed: Peer recovery support utilizes a strengths-based framework that emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety and creates opportunities for survivors to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.

HMCC Psycho-Educational (Psych-Ed) Program

The Psycho-Educational (Psych-Ed) program is an ASAM Level 0.5 early intervention program.

Individuals participating in Psych-Ed will not be held in an ADOC facility for the purpose of completing the program. There are 12 sessions that encompass the program; however, each session is standalone, and an individual may choose to do some or all 12 sessions. Maximum participation in the program is encouraged by allowing individuals to voluntarily attend whichever sessions they choose. The FTE assigned shall provide Psych-Ed groups to thirty (30) individuals at a time.

1. Program Length – 12 sessions over six (6) weeks.

a. Week 1-6

i. Four (4) clinical groups per week. Each group is one and a half (1.5) hours in duration. No more than fifteen (15) individuals per group.

ii. The program will establish and follow a set schedule preapproved by the institutional contact and Chief Mental Health Officer or designee that will cover each of the twelve (12) sessions. The course will restart every six (6) weeks.

2. Target Population - Individuals who have a SUD along with related criminal histories are appropriate for this program. The priority population will be individuals who have been assessed as needing some level of substance use disorder treatment, are sentenced felons, and who have a classification level of medium or higher. Individuals will be prioritized based on legal requirements and release date. Individuals will be eligible for the program if members of the priority population are not available.

3. Curriculum - The program curriculum will be premised upon the Living in Balance workbooks.

Groups will focus on a workbook and a specific exercise, or exercises, within that workbook.

Supplemental evidence-based curriculum may be used with written approval from the department.

The contractor shall follow the facilitator guidelines set forth in the curriculum: Living in Balance, Sessions 1-12

ACO Substance Use Disorder Project Manager

The contracted project manager position will be responsible for providing statewide substance use disorder program oversight, quality assurance measurements, and training from the department’s Anchorage Central Office (ACO) and onsite at facilities. Additionally, the project manager will provide substance use disorder screening and assessment services for any of the department’s 13 correctional centers as needed and at the direction of the Chief Mental Health Officer or designee. The primary focus of the project manager will be on SUD service management, but will also occasionally be responsible for assisting SUD personnel statewide in providing services as needed and at the direction of the Chief Mental Health Officer or designee. The coordinator role will maintain onsite management and coordination of SUD service delivery for HMCC and report directly to the project manager. The project manager will report directly to the Chief Mental Health Officer or designee. The project manager FTE is separate from HMCC SUD services FTEs and may not be utilized to cover other FTEs in this RFP in the event of staff shortages.

The project manager’s duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Provide program oversight, management, and monitoring of substance use disorder services statewide through methods such as site visits, regular meetings with service providers and department staff, and data analysis.

2. Conduct quality assurance measurements of substance use disorder services statewide, such as clinical chart reviews, formal audits, and identification of service gaps.

3. Consult on and make recommendations for resolving service deficiencies for statewide programming, including review and development of department substance use disorder treatment standards.

4. Participate as a substance use disorder expert within the behavioral health management team and assigned department projects, such as peer support certification efforts.

5. As needed and as directed by the Chief Mental Health Officer or designee, complete SUD screenings and assessments either in-person for individuals in custody at locations within driving distance, or telephonically from ACO for those in custody in rural locations.

6. Create and administer training to department and contracted staff on substance use disorder treatment, department standards, and the department’s electronic healthcare record (EHR).

SEC. 3.02 CONTRACT TERM AND WORK SCHEDULE

The length of the contract will be from the date of award, approximately 7/1/2026, through 6/30/2027, with optional renewal periods to be exercised at the sole discretion of the State up to 6/30/2029. Approval or continuation of a contract resulting from this RFP is contingent upon the legislative appropriation of funding and programmatic needs.

• Initial Period: 7/1/2026 – 6/30/2027

• Renewal: 7/1/2027 – 6/30/2028

• Renewal: 7/1/2028 – 6/30/2029

Unless otherwise provided in this RFP, the State and the successful offeror/contractor agree: (1) that any extension of the contract excluding any exercised renewal options, will be considered as a month-to-month extension, and all other terms and conditions shall remain in full force and effect and (2) the procurement officer will provide notice to the contractor of the intent to cancel such month-to-month extension at least 30 days before the desired date of cancellation. A month-to-month extension may only be executed by the procurement officer via a written contract amendment.

Work Shifts:

HMCC six (6) positions: The contract staff shall work shifts that provide appropriate treatment coverage within the context of institutional guidelines and operations. The contract staff’s hours will be established by the contractor in coordination with the project manager, Chief Mental Health Officer, or designee, and institutional management. These work shifts may include morning, afternoon, evening, and/or weekend shifts depending on the needs of the department.

ACO one (1) position: The contract staff shall work regular business hours only, 8:00 – 4:30, Monday- Friday, unless otherwise directed by the Chief Mental Health Officer or designee, or on approved leave.

Work Schedule:

The current schedule provides up to seven (7) FTEs. Each FTE provides services for eight (8) hours per day, five (5) days per week, for 52 weeks per year.

The contractor will not be required to work during Alaska State holidays. See the link to the Alaska State Holidays calendar. If the contract staff member works on a holiday, overtime shall not be billable under the contract, see below:

http://doa.alaska.gov/calendar/

The annual hourly calculations are as follows for full-time, taking into consideration the hours not worked during state-observed holidays:

• Per Position (FTE): Full-time hours = billable calendar days X 8 hours per day (less observed holidays – 96 hours) = 1,984. The department will pro-rate years with more or less than 1,984 hours.

The table below does not include screening and assessment responsibilities.

Program # FTE Assigned

Program Capacity

Est. Length of Program Est. served/year Location

Project Manager 1 n/a n/a n/a ACO

(Anchorage, AK)

Coordinator 1 n/a n/a n/a HMCC (Eagle River, AK)

RSAT 2 24 26 weeks 48 HMCC (Eagle River, AK)

IOPSAT 1 12 15 weeks 84 HMCC (Eagle River, AK)

COD 1 10 20 weeks 27 HMCC (Eagle River, AK)

Psych-Ed 1 30 6 weeks 260 HMCC (Eagle River, AK)

SEC. 3.03 GENERAL PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Each of the individual programs described in SEC. 3.01 SCOPE OF WORK shall include the following:

Cultural Relevance:

The program and services offered must be culturally relevant to Alaska Natives and other racial and ethnic minority groups.

Program Milieu:

Program milieu is a treatment program designed to help individuals address their SUD and criminal thinking. It has a structured schedule with treatment groups and activities led by counselors. Individuals will learn problem-solving skills and cognitive behavioral skills. The program milieu contains elements of a therapeutic community, such as right living, recovery, and role modeling. However, the emphasis is http://doa.alaska.gov/calendar/ on staff providing treatment interventions to motivate behavioral change instead of using peer hierarchy.

Total separation from the general inmate population is not possible or expected, but efforts will be made by the institutional staff to house programming individuals together.

These programs are guided by the following concepts:

• Right Living: Abstinence from using alcohol and drugs, following all rules, steadily participating in treatment, meeting treatment and institutional obligations, maintaining cleanliness and proper hygiene, practicing honesty, caring for others’ well-being, and showing manners, respect, and dignity toward everyone. It is about being consistent, responsible, and accountable.

• Recovery: Changes in negative patterns of behavior, thinking, and feeling to develop a responsible, substance-free life. Recovery is a process.

• Role model: Each person is expected to show the behavior, attitude, and expectations of the treatment program. Role models consistently maintain positive attitudes and values. They are aware of their own behaviors, are committed to positive change, and demonstrate right living. They reach out to help others and take on additional responsibility without being asked.

The following aspects and items must be addressed when establishing and running the program:

• Treatment tools will be established to help people change their thinking and behavior. Some tools will be based more on changing the individual’s own thinking, like thinking reports, and other tools are based on helping others change, like feedback. For tools to work effectively, they need to be delivered in a positive, helpful way, and they need to be practiced often.

• An emphasis shall be placed on maintaining a strength-based approach. More time should be spent reinforcing positive behaviors as opposed to a heavy focus on punishment and criticism.

• There will be no hierarchy within the program milieu.

Program Curriculum:

The contractor shall only use the program curriculum approved by the department. The department reserves the right to change the program curriculum during the course of the contract. At no time shall the contractor introduce curriculum that has not been preapproved by the department. The contractor shall purchase, at their own expense, the program curriculum supplies and shall always maintain sufficient quantities. Curriculum may be found at the publisher’s website. The cost of the curriculum must be considered an “indirect” cost and built into the cost proposal. The purchase of curriculum is not reimbursable and may not be billed as a separate cost by the contractor.

Group Size:

Clinical groups shall not exceed the capacity of 12 active individuals. It is possible for didactic/educational groups and community activities to exceed this capacity. It is possible for some of these groups to break into smaller or larger groups depending on the material and exercises being covered; however, the clinical oversight and time obligations remain the contractor’s responsibility.

Additional Activities:

Whenever possible, and where it does not interfere with program goals and objectives, individuals will be able to participate in other classes and work assignments within the institution. In doing so, they will have the opportunity to apply newly acquired treatment knowledge and recovery skills in the larger community.

They will also have access to other necessary support services such as religious programs, education, mental health, and medical services.

Release Planning:

The contractor must address the use of specific post-discharge resources such as community-based substance use disorder continuing care services, elders, supportive family members, Office of Children’s Services, Tribal Courts, Social Services, sponsors/mentors, Talking Circles, and AA/NA. Many of the individuals who graduate from the program will transition into rural and remote villages where there is a scarcity of support services available. The contractor must make appropriate attempts to transition individuals into the support services that are available. The contractor shall work actively with community providers to facilitate individuals in accessing these services.

The contractor shall assist individuals, in conjunction with the individual’s Probation Officer and other associated department programs, in planning for continuity of care in their home communities. Release planning will depend on the needs of the individual. The contract staff must be familiar with state-approved and state-funded treatment programs that use a sliding fee scale for services. They must develop referrals for safe housing, medical assistance, education, vocational training, employment, and other needs. All attempts must be made to transition individuals into appropriate, sobriety-supporting services available in their community.

SEC. 3.04 DELIVERABLES

Contractors are required to deliver substance use disorder treatment services tailored to the incoming and existing incarcerated population:

1. Screenings, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT):

a. All referred individuals will be screened within five (5) working days

b. If a positive screening indicates that an individual requires intervention, then the SBIRT interventions are to be initiated within 24 hours or the next business day, whichever occurs first.

c. For individuals placed on a withdrawal protocol:

i. Initial visit: The contractor must meet with the individual within 48 hours or the next business day, whichever occurs first. The initial visit contact must be completed even if the individual is removed from the withdrawal protocol

ii. Follow-up visit: If the individual was non-responsive or declined services, the contractor must follow up with the individual within 72 hours of the initial visit.

2. Substance Use Disorder Assessments:

a. All referred individuals will be assessed within five (5) business days.

b. At a minimum, complete twelve (12) assessments per week.

i. In the event there are more than twelve (12) assessment referrals in a week, the contractor must make every attempt to complete additional assessments, maintain an assessment waitlist, and submit a plan to minimize assessment wait times.

ii. In the event there are fewer than twelve (12) assessment referrals in a week, the contractor must document this in the SUD Monthly Narrative and explain the reasoning.

c. Within five (5) working days of the assessment interview, the contractor will share the level of care results from the assessment with the referrer and place referrals for appropriate treatment depending on the results of the assessment.

3. Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT):

a. Provide ASAM Level 3.5 RSAT services as outlined in SEC 3.01 SCOPE OF WORK and maintain program capacity of 24 active participants total.

i. The contractor shall anticipate vacancies in the core treatment phase by starting individuals in orientation prior to a core treatment phase slot becoming vacant.

b. All program documentation is completed as outlined in the SEC. 3.06

DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING

c. Each individual admitted to the program shall participate in 26 weeks of programming before program completion

i. Any early program completions or program extensions are documented as outlined in SEC. 3.06 DOCUMENTATION AND REPORTING

4. Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment (IOPSAT):

a. Provide ASAM Level 2.1 IOPSAT services as outlined in SEC 3.01 SCOPE OF WORK and maintain program capacity of 12 active participants.

i. The contractor shall anticipate vacancies in the core…