SUDTS - DOC

Solicitation #: BPM055259 RFP Document

RFP Instructions Page 1 of 78

STATE OF MARYLAND

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONAL

SERVICES (DPSCS)

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER TREATMENT SERVICES

(SUDTS) IN DOC FACILITIES (STATEWIDE)

RFP NUMBER BPM055259

ISSUE DATE: OCTOBER 2, 2026

A Prospective Offeror that has received this document from a source other than eMarylandMarketplace Advantage (eMMA) https://procurement.maryland.gov should register on eMMA https://emma.maryland.gov/

NOTICE TO OFFERORS

MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISES ARE ENCOURAGED TO RESPOND TO THIS

SOLICITATION.

https://procurement.maryland.gov/ https://emma.maryland.gov/

RFP for Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Page 2 of 78

STATE OF MARYLAND

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICES

(DPSCS)

KEY INFORMATION SUMMARY SHEET

Request for Proposals Services - Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services in DOC Facilities (Statewide)

Solicitation Number: BPM055259

RFP Issue Date: October 2, 2026

RFP Issuing Office: Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS or the "Department”)

Procurement Officer: Dawn Becker 6776 Reisterstown Road, Room 211 Baltimore, MD 21215

Email:

Phone Number:

Dawn.becker@maryland.gov 667-425-9204

Proposals are to be sent to:

Submit on emma.maryland.gov under Solicitation Number BPM055259.

To submit a proposal, Offerors must first register on emma.maryland.gov.

We recommend registering in advance to become acquainted with the site.

No Bid/Proposal Notice Feedback Form

If you are not submitting a proposal for this solicitation, please submit Attachment 1 with your reasons why.

Pre-Proposal Conference:

October 16, 2026 at 2:00 pm Local Time.

The Pre-Proposal conference will be virtual, email the Procurement Officer the below information to receive a meeting link:

1. Company Name

2. Representative Name

3. Indicate if you are interested as a Prime or Sub

See Section 4.3 for additional details.

See Attachment 2 to RSVP by October 15, 2026 by 12:00 (Noon) Local Time.

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Scheduled Site Visit October 16, 2026 at 9:30 am – 12:00 pm Local Time.

Site visit Location: Beginning at Maryland Correctional Institution for Women located at 7943 Brockbridge Road, Jessup, MD 20794 and then moving to Jessup Correctional Institution, located at 7805 House of Correction Road, Jessup, MD 20794.

At MCI-W, parking is on-site at the facility in designated parking areas near the visitor entrance. Upon arrival at JCI, follow the driveway and signage to the designated visitor parking area before going to the security screening entry.

To attend the site visit, please see Attachment 2-A to RSVP no later than October 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM Local Time. Please see Exhibit 25, OPS.110.0033 Entrance Procedures for additional information.

Questions Due Date and Time:

October 23, 2026 at 2:00 pm Local Time

Proposal Due (Closing) Date and Time:

November 12, 2026 at 2:00 pm Local Time Offerors are reminded that a completed Feedback Form is requested if a no-bid/proposal decision is made (see Attachment 1 - No Bid Notice/Vendor Feedback Form).

MBE Subcontracting Goal:

An overall Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) subcontract participation goal of 8% percent of the total contract dollar amount, including all renewal option terms, if any, has been established for this procurement.

No sub goals have been established.

Refer to Exhibit 1 for information on how goal setting was determined.

Also, refer to Appendix 4 for information about the MBE or DBE program and goals.

VSBE Subcontracting Goal:

This solicitation includes a VSBE participation Goal of 1%.

Refer to Exhibit 1 for information on how goal setting was determined.

Also, refer to Appendix 5 for information about the VSBE program and goals.

Procurement Method: A Contract will be awarded in accordance with the Competitive Sealed Proposals method under COMAR 21.05.03.

Multiple or Alternate Bids:

Multiple or alternate Proposals will not be accepted.

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Contract Type: Indefinite quantity with fixed unit prices in accordance with COMAR 21.06.03.03.A(2).

Contract Duration: Three (3) year and 3 months’ base period with two (2), 2- year option periods.

Primary Place of Performance:

Statewide

SBR Designation: No

Federal Funding: No

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TABLE OF CONTENTS – RFP

1 Minimum Qualifications

1.1 Offeror Minimum Qualifications

2 Contractor Requirements: Scope of Work

2.1 Summary Statement

2.2 Background and Purpose

2.3 Roles and Responsibilities

2.4 Contractor On-Site Responsibilities, Service Delivery and Workflow

2.4.1 General Responsibilities

2.4.2 Substance use Disorder Screening and Assessments

A. Scope of Services

B. General Responsibilities

2.4.3 MOUD Counseling Workflow and Timeframes

2.4.4 MOUD Screening and Assessment Requirements

2.4.5 MOUD Core Counseling Service Requirements

2.4.6 Voluntary Group Counseling (When Operationally Feasible)

2.4.7 Refusals and Re-engagement

2.4.8 Coordination of Care and Reentry Planning

2.4.9 ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Treatment Services (IOP)

2.5 Contractor Administrative Responsibilities

2.5.1 Regulatory Compliance, Accreditation, and Risk Management

2.5.2 Investigations and Follow-Up of Grievances, Administrative Remedy Procedures (ARP) Complaints, and other Complaints

2.5.3 Deliverables and Reporting

2.5.4 Staffing Requirements

2.5.5 Staff Orientation and Training

2.5.6 Quality Assurance and Department Oversight

2.5.7 Meetings

2.5.8 Identification, Equipment, Logins, and Access

2.6 Experience and Personnel

2.6.1 Preferred Offeror Experience

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2.6.2 Required Minimum Personnel Experience

2.6.3 Key Personnel Identified

2.6.4 Contractor Personnel Maintain Certifications

2.6.5 Work Hours

2.7 Substitution of Personnel

2.7.1 Continuous Performance of Key Personnel

2.7.2 Definitions

2.7.3 Contractor Personnel General Substitution Provisions

2.7.4 Replacement Circumstances

2.8 Supplemental Category of Work Requirements and Responsibilities

3 Standard Terms and Conditions

3.1 Contract Initiation Requirements

3.2 End of Contract Transition

3.3 Invoicing

3.3.1 Invoice Submission Schedule

3.3.2 Labor Hour/Time and Materials Invoicing

3.3.3 Travel Reimbursement

3.4 Liquidated Damages

3.4.1 MBE Liquidated Damages

3.4.2 Liquidated Damages other than MBE

3.5 Problem Escalation Procedure

3.6 Work Orders

3.7 Payments by Electronic Funds Transfer

3.8 Prompt Payment Policy

3.9 Federal Funding Acknowledgement

3.10 Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure

3.11 Non-Disclosure Agreement

3.11.1 Non-Disclosure Agreement (Bidder/Offeror)

3.11.2 Non-Disclosure Agreement (Contractor)

3.12 Maryland Healthy Working Families Act Requirements

3.13 The State of Maryland’s Commitment to Purchasing Environmentally Preferred Products and Services (EPPs)

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3.14 Insurance Requirements

3.15 Non-Compete Clause Prohibition

4 Proposal Submission Information and Instructions

4.1 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA)

4.2 Electronic Means

4.3 Pre-Proposal Conference

4.4 Questions

4.5 Proposal Due (Closing) Date and Time

4.6 Economy of Preparation

4.7 Public Information Act Notice

4.8 Oral Presentation

4.9 Duration of Proposals

4.10 Revisions to the RFP

4.11 Cancellations

4.12 Incurred Expenses

4.13 Protest/Disputes

4.14 Offeror Responsibilities

4.15 Acceptance of Terms and Conditions

4.16 Compliance with Laws/Arrearages

4.17 Verification of Registration and Tax Payment

4.18 False Statements

5 Proposal Format

5.1 Two Part Submission

5.2 Proposal Delivery and Packaging

5.2.1 Two Part (Double Envelope) Submission:

5.3 Volume I - Technical Proposal

5.4 Volume II – Financial Proposal

6 Evaluation and Selection Process

6.1 Evaluation Committee

6.2 Technical Proposal Evaluation Criteria

6.3 Financial Proposal Evaluation Criteria

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6.4 Reciprocal Preference

6.5 Selection Procedures

6.5.1 General

6.5.2 Selection Process Sequence

6.5.3 Award Determination

6.6 Documents Required upon Notice of Recommendation for Contract Award RFP Attachments (Table B)

7 RFP Appendices and Exhibits

7.1 Appendices (Table C)

7.2 Exhibits (Table D)

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1 Minimum Qualifications

1.1 Offeror Minimum Qualifications

The Offeror shall meet the following minimum experience requirement:

The Offeror must have at least three (3) years of experience within the past five (5) years in providing Substance Use Disorder Counseling and related treatment services, of comparable size, scope and complexity. The legal entity that is the Offeror must demonstrate this experience.

Experience of individual personnel of the Offeror, parent, subsidiary, affiliate, or subcontractor shall not count towards meeting the required three (3) years of experience. This experience must be under the Offeror’s legal company name under which the proposal is submitted.

A. Required Documentation: The Offeror shall provide with its proposal “Attachment L.

Reference Checks” with one or more references filled out.

THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

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2 Contractor Requirements: Scope of Work

2.1 Summary Statement

This Request for Proposals (RFP) is issued to procure the goods or services, as specified in this Section 2, from a contract between the selected Offeror and the State of Maryland (“State”) to provide Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Treatment Services, including SUD Screening and Assessments, Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) counseling, ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Treatment Programs (IOP), and related clinical and re-entry services, within the Department’s Division of Correction (DOC) facilities state-wide.

It is the State’s intention to obtain goods and services, as specified in this RFP, from a contract between the selected Offeror and the State.

This will result in a single award, indefinite quantity Contract. See RFP Section 6.5 Selection Procedures for more Contract award information.

A Contract award does not ensure a Contractor will receive all or any State business under the Contract.

2.2 Background and Purpose

The Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS), through the Division of Correction (DOC), provides behavioral health treatment services for incarcerated individuals, including individuals diagnosed with Substance Use Disorders (SUD).

The Department’s Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) Program provides evidence-based treatment that combines FDA-approved medications- such as buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone-with COMAR-required clinical counseling and recovery support. Counseling is a mandatory component of Substance Use Disorder treatment and is intended to promote sustained recovery, reduce relapse and overdose risk, and support successful reentry into the community.

The Department seeks a qualified Contractor to provide comprehensive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services for incarcerated individuals in DOC facilities. Services shall include, but are not limited to, screening and assessment, development and implementation of individualized treatment plans; individual and group counseling, operation of ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Treatment Programming (IOP), coordination of care within the correctional setting, and structured reentry planning.

All services shall comply with applicable federal and State laws and regulations, including COMAR 10.47.01, COMAR 10.63.03, Maryland Department of Health (MDH) and Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) standards, and National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) or Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) guidelines.

2.2.1 Division of Correction (DOC) Facilities

A. Baltimore City Correctional Center (BCCC) located at 901 Greenmount Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202.

B. Central Maryland Correctional Facility (CMCF) located at 701 Buttercup Road, Sykesville, MD 21784.

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C. Dorsey Run Correctional Facility (DRCF) located at 2020 Toulson Road, Jessup, MD 20794.

D. Eastern Correctional Institution (ECI) located at 30420 Revells Neck Road, Westover, MD 21890.

1. ECI includes East and West Compounds. (ECI-E), (ECI-W)

E. Eastern Correctional Institution – Annex (ECI-A) located at 30430 Revells Neck Road, Westover, MD 21890.

F. Jessup Correctional Institution (JCI) located at 7805 House of Correction Road, Jessup, MD 20794.

G. Maryland Correctional Institution – Hagerstown (MCI-H) located at 18601 Roxbury Road, Hagerstown, MD 21746.

H. Maryland Correctional Institution for Women (MCIW) located at 7943 Brockbridge Road, Jessup, MD 20794.

I. Maryland Correctional Training Center (MCTC) located at 18800 Roxbury Road, Hagerstown, MD 21746.

J. North Branch Correctional Institution (NBCI) located at 14100 McMullen Hwy, S.W., Cumberland, MD 21502.

K. Patuxent Institution (PATX) located at 7555 Waterloo Road, Jessup, MD 20794.

L. Roxbury Correctional Institution (RCI) located at 18701 Roxbury Road, Hagerstown, MD 21502.

M. Western Correctional Institution (WCI) located at 13800 McMullen Hwy S.W., Cumberland, MD 21502.

2.3 Roles and Responsibilities

2.3.1 State Staff and Roles

The Department will designate the following personnel to oversee, direct, and support the successful implementation and lifecycle of this contract:

A. Procurement Officer - After Contract award, the Procurement Officer is the sole authority for contract modifications, dispute resolutions, and formal communications regarding the contract terms and conditions.

B. Contract Manager (CM)- The Contract Manager is the Department’s primary point of contact for the Contractor’s contract-related communications. The CM is responsible for the day-to-day contract administration, including monitoring liquidated damages, RFP for Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Page 12 of 78 reviewing invoices, managing deliverables, and ensuring compliance with the terms and conditions.

C. The Director of Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services shall provide programmatic oversight of this Contract.

D. The State Medical Contractor participates in a multi-disciplinary team overseeing MOUD patients, and shall provide the Contractor with a list of individuals enrolled in the MOUD Program who require counseling services.

2.3.2 State Support Responsibilities

A. The State shall provide access to appropriate work areas within designated DOC facilities to allow for counseling sessions and coordination meetings.

B. The State shall provide dedicated workspace for Contractor personnel to access Electronic Patient Health Record (EPHR) and to complete documentation.

C. The State will facilitate secure access to the EPHR system for authorized Contractor personnel.

D. The State shall provide required technology and equipment necessary for the performance of contract services, including access to printers, paper, and related printing resources for required contract-related documentation.

E. The State shall coordinate census and referral information with the contracted medical provider.

F. The State shall provide key Administrative forms, templates, and tools for Contractor Personnel to streamline administrative tasks and reporting requirements.

G. The State shall conduct periodic audits and quality assurance reviews to ensure program compliance.

H. The Office of Data Development shall provide reports to include, but not limited to, i, projected release dates, and upcoming justice-involved appointments.

2.4 Contractor On-Site Responsibilities, Service Delivery and Workflow

2.4.1 General Responsibilities

A. The Contractor shall provide comprehensive Substance Use Disorder (SUD) screening and assessments for individuals housed in DOC facilities.

B. The Contractor shall provide, manage and oversee all Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) counseling services for assigned participants in accordance with this

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RFP and the most current Department issued SUDTS policies, manuals, and directives in effect at the time services are delivered, including but not limited to:

1. Exhibit 4, DOC.100.0002 Section 15 (SUDTS) - Section 15, Case Management Manual; and

C. The Contractor shall provide ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) at designated DOC facilities.

D. The Contractor shall provide comprehensive reentry services for all individuals receiving SUD services.

E. The Contractor shall collaborate with the Department’s contracted medical provider, DPSCS-employed treatment staff, case managers, and reentry personnel to ensure coordinated, integrated, and patient-centered care.

F. The Contractor shall deliver services that are evidence-based, trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and individualized to participant needs.

G. The Contractor shall anticipate SUD population growth and adjust staffing accordingly, subject to Department review and approval.

2.4.2 Substance use Disorder Screening and Assessments

A. Scope of Services

1. The Contractor shall provide comprehensive Substance Use Disorder (SUD) screening and assessment services for incarcerated individuals housed in DOC facilities. Screening and assessment services shall be provided at intake and at any time thereafter as required by the Department.

B. General Responsibilities

1. The Contractor shall complete screening and assessment activities in accordance with Department policies and professional standards in effect at the time services are delivered.

2. The Contractor shall administer, score, and interpret all screening and assessment instruments in accordance with Department requirements and clinical best practices.

C. Intake and Referral Pathways

1. Front End (Intake)Assessments

a. The Contractor shall be provided access to Intake Lists for each intake facility.

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b. Current intake facilities include: JCI, ECI, MCTC, and MCIW. The Department may designate different or additional intake facilities during the Contract term.

2. Back End (Standing Population) Assessments:

a. SUD staff, in collaboration with DOC Case Management, shall refer incarcerated individuals identified as requiring screening or assessment.

D. Screening and Assessment Administration

The Contractor shall administer Department-approved screening and assessment instruments in accordance with this RFP and Department policies. At a minimum, the Contractor shall:

1. Administer Exhibit 16, Texas Christian University – Drug Screen 5 (TCU-DS5) for all incarcerated individuals referred for screening and assessment.

2. Determine, based on clinical judgment and TCU-DS5 results, whether administration of Exhibit 15, SMART TAP Assessment is clinically indicated.

3. Administer the SMART TAP Assessment when indicated to assess substance use severity and treatment needs.

4. Review and score assessment results to determine risk level and appropriate level of care.

5. Enter an interpretative summary and biopsychosocial note into the Department-designated electronic record as directed by the Contract Manager.

6. Scan and upload completed screening and assessment instruments into the electronic record. Hard copies shall be submitted to the location designated by the Contract Manager.

E. Timeframes for Completion

1. Front-End (Intake) Screening and Assessment:

a. All screening and assessment activities shall be completed within thirty

(30) days of referral.

2. Back-End (Standing Population) Screening and Assessment:

a. All screening and assessment activities shall be completed within thirty

(30) days of referral.

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b. High Priority referrals identified by SUD staff shall be completed within ten (10) business days.

3. Failure to meet required timelines may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

F. Re-Screening and Reassessment

1. SUD staff, in collaboration with DOC Case Management, may refer an incarcerated individual for re-screening or reassessment based on clinical or behavioral indicators, including, but not limited to disciplinary infractions, substance-related incidents, or updated legal or supervision information.

G. Special Populations

1. Individuals housed in Disciplinary or Administrative Segregation shall not be screened or assessed unless specifically requested by SUD staff and designated as high priority. The Contractor shall document segregation status and maintain the individual on the waiting list until return to the General Population.

2. Individuals on Protective Custody shall receive individual screening and assessments; group screenings are prohibited.

H. Documentation and Reporting

1. The Contractor shall ensure all screening and assessment results are accurately documented and entered into Department-designated electronic systems within the required timeframes. Documentation shall include summary scores, sub-scale results, and completed instruments as required by the Contract Monitor.

2. The Contractor shall submit a Monthly Screening and Assessment Report to the Contract Manager documenting:

a. Date of Intake or Referral;

b. Name and SID number of the incarcerated individual;

c. Date screening and assessment were completed;

d. Name of the assessor; and

e. Reason for any late completion and corrective action taken.

3. Failure to meet documentation requirements may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

I. Mental Health Referrals

1. The Contractor shall immediately refer individuals exhibiting self-injurious behavior, psychosis, assaultive behavior, or other acute mental health or intoxication concerns to the on-site DOC Mental Health staff.

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a. The Contract Manager shall be copied on such notifications.

2. Failure to immediately refer such cases may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

J. Quality Assurance

1. The Contractor shall supervise all screening and assessment activities and conduct routine quality assurance reviews.

2. The Contractor shall submit a Monthly Quality Assurance report to the Contract Manager.

2.4.3 MOUD Counseling Workflow and Timeframes

A. The Contractor shall receive MOUD enrollment notifications and data reports from the State Medical Contractor, the Office of Data Development, or other Department designee.

B. Within seven (7) calendar days of the date of enrollment notification, the Contractor shall complete all required MOUD screening and assessment activities.

C. Within seven (7) calendar days following completion of MOUD screening and assessment, the Contractor shall:

1. Assign the participant to a MOUD Counselor;

2. Develop an Individualized Treatment Plan; and

3. Conduct the initial counseling session, during which the treatment plan is reviewed and counseling services formally begin.

D. Failure to complete MOUD screening and assessment activities within the required timeframes may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10 - Liquidated Damages.

2.4.4 MOUD Screening and Assessment Requirements

All MOUD screening and assessment activities shall be completed prior to the initiation of counseling services, and be documented in the electronic record within forty-eight (48) hours of service delivery per Section 2.5.3 Deliverables and Reporting. Failure to update EPHR may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

A. At a minimum, the Contractor shall administer and complete the following Department-approved tools:

1. Exhibit 14, Mental Health Screening Form III (MHSFIII);

2. Exhibit 15, SMART TAP Assessment;

3. Exhibit 16, Texan Christian University Drug Screen 5 (TCU-5);

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4. Exhibit 17, Infectious Disease Education and Risk Reduction

5. Exhibit 18, Family and Recovery Environment Assessment (FREA);

6. Exhibit 19, Brief Addiction Monitor (BAM);

7. Exhibit 20, Nicotine Dependency Screening Tool;

8. Exhibit 21, Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI);

9. Exhibit 22, Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale; and

10. A comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment in accordance with COMAR

10.47.01.04.

B. The Department may approve updated, equivalent or additional assessment instruments during the contract term without requiring a contract modification.

2.4.5 MOUD Core Counseling Service Requirements

A. The Contractor shall maintain counselor caseloads not to exceed fifty (50) participants per counselor, unless otherwise approved by the Department and MDH/BHA. MOUD census projections are provided in Exhibit 8, MOUD Census.

1. Failure to maintain caseload compliance may result in liquidated damages found

B. The Contractor shall provide individual counseling to each assigned participant at least once per month, consisting of a minimum of one (1) sixty-minute session or two (2) thirty-minute sessions.

1. Failure to provide individual counseling may result in liquidated damages found

C. Counseling services shall utilize evidence-based practices, including Cognitive

Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), and shall be delivered by staff trained in these modalities.

D. The Contractor shall document all counseling sessions in EPHR within forty-eight (48) hours of service delivery. Failure to update EPHR may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

E. The Contractor shall review and update Individualized Treatment Plans at intervals established by the Department, but no less frequently than every ninety (90) days.

1. Failure to review and update Treatment Plans in the timeframe outlined above may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

2.4.6 Voluntary Group Counseling (When Operationally Feasible)

A. Unless the Department determines that institutional operations or space constraints do not permit, the Contractor shall establish voluntary; at least monthly; group counseling sessions utilizing CBT, trauma-informed, and Motivational Interviewing based curricula.

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B. Group sessions shall:

1. Be professionally facilitated;

2. Maintain a defined agenda focused on treatment-related topics;

3. Require active participation from all attendees; and

4. Operate under established group rules addressing respect, confidentiality and safety.

C. Group counseling shall not replace required individual counseling services.

D. The Contractor shall document group participation in EPHR for each participant, including group topics and individual participation, and shall maintain sign-in records.

Failure to update EPHR may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

2.4.7 Refusals and Re-engagement

A. The Contractor shall document all counseling refusals in the participant’s medical record, including the date, time, and stated reason for refusal, within forty-eight (48) hours.

Failure to update EPHR may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

B. The Contractor shall complete Exhibit 26, Release of Responsibility Form for each refusal and provide copies to the Contract Manager or designee.

C. The Contractor shall attempt to re-engage participants who refuse counseling within one

(1) week using motivational interviewing techniques.

D. Participants who refuse counseling services on three (3) consecutive occasions shall be referred, when available, to a DPSCS-employed or contracted Allied Health Staff/Peer Recovery Specialist. Such referrals shall be supportive and non-disciplinary. The Contractor will use the referral form provided by the State. All referrals to a Peer Recovery Specialist shall be reported monthly.

2.4.8 Coordination of Care and Reentry Planning

A. The Contractor shall coordinate care for all participants receiving SUD counseling services in collaboration with the Department’s contracted medical provider, DPSCS-employed treatment staff, Case Managers, and Reentry Personnel to ensure integrated, patient-centered care.

B. The Contractor shall participate in multi-disciplinary treatment team meetings, case conferences, and other Department directed coordination activities.

C. The Contractor shall facilitate referrals to certified BHA and accredited community-based SUD providers prior to release, when feasible, to ensure continuity of care.

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D. All coordination activities, referrals, and collaborative efforts shall be documented in EPHR within forty-eight (48) hours of service delivery. Failure to update EPHR may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

E. The Contractor shall complete Exhibit 11, Aftercare Service Plan Form with the Participant within fourteen (14) calendar days of the anticipated release date, when feasible.

F. Failure to complete the Aftercare Service Plan Form within the timeframe specified may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

2.4.9 ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Treatment Services (IOP)

A. General Responsibilities

1. The Contractor shall provide ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) substance use disorder treatment services in accordance with Maryland Department of Health (MDH) requirements, applicable COMAR regulations, Department policies, and ASAM Criteria.

a. IOP services shall be structured, evidence-based, and designed to support recovery, stabilization, and relapse prevention.

2. The Contractor shall ensure IOP services are provided at all facilities operating a IOP at contract award and at any additional facilities that initiate IOP services during the Contract term, as directed by the Department.

a. IOP services may be expanded to additional DOC facilities at the Department’s discretion, with 60 days’ notice, at the financial proposal hourly rates.

B. Staffing Requirements

1. Each IOP shall be staffed in accordance with COMAR requirements and the following minimum standards:

ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Treatment Services (IOP)

Facility IOP Counselors (Ratio 1:15)

Allied Health Staff / Peer Recovery Specialist

BCCC 1 .5

CMCF 1 .5

DRCF 1 .5

ECI 2 1

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JCI 2 1

MCTC 2 1

MCIW 2 1

RCI 1 .5

WCI 1 .5

2. The Contractor shall provide the following Clinical Directors and Clinical

Supervisors to exclusively oversee IOP Services:

ASAM Level 2.1 Intensive Outpatient Treatment Services (IOP)

Region Clinical Directors Clinical Supervisors

West Region 1 1

Central and East Regions

1 2

3. The Contractor shall ensure continuity of services during staff absences. Any staff absence, tardiness, or anticipated service interruption shall be reported immediately to the Contract Manager and Institutional Shift Commander.

Clinical Supervisors shall ensure coverage of required services during staff absences.

C. Client Handbook

1. The Contractor shall maintain a Department-approved Client Handbook outlining program structure, attendance requirements, expectations, rules, participant responsibilities, and criteria for successful program completion.

a. The Client Handbook shall be provided to all participants prior to, or at the time of, program admission and implemented consistently across all facilities.

D. Program Operations and Schedule

1. Program Start and Completion

a. Each IOP shall maintain a Department-approved annual schedule of program start and completion dates.

b. Each IOP shall be six (6) months in duration.

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c. Participant admissions and completions shall be coordinated with institutional staff and SUD treatment staff.

d. Program completion recognition activities, if applicable, shall be coordinated with the institution.

e. Certificates of completions shall be issued only upon successful completion and shall be signed by the participant’s primary counselor and the Clinical Director.

2. Program Structure

a. Each IOP shall operate using a structured treatment model that includes, at a minimum:

1. A comprehensive assessment, including a biopsychosocial assessment, conducted within one (1) week of admission in accordance with COMAR 10.47.01.04;

2. An Individualized Treatment Plan developed within five (5) calendar days of assessment and updated at least every thirty

(30) days; and

3. Core SUD treatment services.

b. Programs shall utilize defined curricula, clinical goals, attendance requirements, and standardized criteria for successful program completion.

c. Curricula shall include, at a minimum:

1. Social and Family Issues

2. Criminal Thinking

3. Anger Management

4. Victim Awareness and Impact

5. HIV / Hepatitis C Education

6. Trauma Recovery

7. Pro-social Skill Development

8. Problem Solving

9. Communication Skills and Conflict Resolution

10. Thinking for a Change

11. Transition Planning and Community Re-Entry

12. Employment Readiness

13. Relapse Prevention

3. Master Schedule

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a. Each IOP shall implement and adhere to a Department-approved Master Schedule reflecting all weekly clinical and program activities.

b. The Master Schedule shall:

1. Provide twenty (20) clinical hours per week consistent with

ASAM Level 2.1 requirements, unless otherwise approved by the Department;

2. Specify daily start and end times aligned with institutional operations; and

3. Include, at a minimum:

a. Group counseling;

b. Individual counseling at least once every two (2) weeks;

c. Educational sessions;

d. Curricula delivery; and

e. Supplemental therapeutic services as clinically indicated.

E. Documentation and Reporting

1. The Contractor shall maintain standardized participant files using Department-approved forms, including hybrid paper files and electronic records maintained as indicated by the Contract Manager.

2. The Contractor shall:

a. Enter weekly participant Progress Notes in EPHR by close of business each Friday;

b. Submit weekly Service Reports documenting attendance and delivery of required clinical service hours by close of business the following Monday; and

c. Submit monthly Statistical Reports by the fifth (5th) business days of each month using Department-provided templates.

F. Monitoring and Liquidated Damages

1. Failure to operate IOP services in accordance with this section may result in assessment of Liquidated Damages as set forth in Appendix 10, including but not limited to:

a. Failure to deliver required clinical service hours;

b. Failure to maintain required staffing levels or counselor-to participant ratios;

c. Failure to submit required reports or deliverables within established timeframes; and

d. Failure to maintain or timely update EPHR or required paper files.

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2.5 Contractor Administrative Responsibilities

2.5.1 Regulatory Compliance, Accreditation, and Risk Management

A. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable Department rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and directives related to risk management, safety, security, clinical operations and operational oversight.

B. The Contractor shall coordinate and work collaboratively with DPSCS and all other Department- contracted healthcare providers to ensure that services are delivered in a safe, prudent, secure, and clinically appropriate manner at all times.

C. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable standards, guidelines, and requirements promulgated by the Maryland Commission on Correctional Standards (MCCS), the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC) or Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Maryland Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), and the American Correctional Association (ACA), as applicable to the scope of services under this Contract. Compliance with such standards is mandatory regardless of whether any individual facility or program is formally accredited.

D. The DPSCS Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) is accredited by the NCCHC. The Contractor shall provide qualified personnel to participate in all accreditation-related meetings, site visits, audits, and reviews. The Contractor shall timely furnish all requested documentation, data, and information, and shall take all actions reasonably necessary to support and maintain accreditation status; including, but not limited to, implementing corrective action plans and addressing deficiencies identified through audits, surveys, or re-inspections.

2.5.2 Investigations and Follow-Up of Grievances, Administrative Remedy Procedures (ARP) Complaints, and other Complaints

A. Complaint Investigation and Response

1. The Contractor shall investigate and respond to all complaints related to this Contract, regardless of source, including but not limited to grievances, incarcerated individuals, family members, attorneys, or other stakeholders.

2. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable grievance and complaint procedures, including Exhibit 6, DOC.185.0002 Administrative Remedy Procedure, and adhere to all Department-established timelines. If a specific response timeline is not stated, the Contractor shall submit a written response within three (3) business days of receipt.

B. Referrals and Reporting

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1. When the Department receives correspondence related to this Contract and determines that a response is required, the Department will forward the correspondence to the Program Clinical Director or designee. The Contractor shall investigate each inquiry or complaint and provide a response in the manner and timeframe specified by the Department.

2. If the Department directs the Contractor to respond directly to the complainant, the Contractor shall provide a copy of the response to the Contract Manager.

3. If the Contractor receives a complaint directly, the Contractor shall immediately forward a copy to the Contract Manager upon receipt so the Department may determine whether further action, investigation, or a formal response is required.

C. Documentation, Record-Keeping, and Audit Trail

1. The Contractor shall maintain complete, accurate, and up to date records of all complaints, grievances, investigations, referrals and responses related to this Contract. At a minimum, documentation shall include:

a. Date the complaint was received

b. Source and nature of the complaint

c. Actions taken to investigate the complaint

d. Findings and conclusions

e. Corrective actions implemented, if applicable

f. Dates and copies of all responses issued

g. Dates complains were forwarded to the Contract Manager

2. All records shall be retained in accordance with State record-retention requirements and shall be made available to the Department, Contract Manager, auditors, or oversight entities upon request for monitoring, quality assurance, compliance reviews, or audits.

2.5.3 Deliverables and Reporting

A. General Documentation Requirements

1. The Contractor shall maintain all participant information in the Electronic Patient Health Record (EPHR) and ensure records are accurate, current, and compliant with all applicable COMAR requirements, including COMAR 10.47.03.07.

2. All clinical, coordination, reentry, and ancillary service documentation shall be entered into EPHR within forty-eight (48) hours of service delivery unless otherwise directed by the Department.

a. Failure to update EPHR within 48 hours may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

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3. The Contractor is encouraged to utilize electronic records and reporting systems to reduce paper consumption, consistent with confidentiality and security requirements.

B. Required Reports

1. The Contractor shall submit the following monthly reports by the 5th calendar day of the month following the month in which services were provided to the Contract Manager or designee in accordance with Exhibit 24, Monthly Reports:

a. End-of-Month Report

b. Monthly Facility Staffing Schedule

c. Monthly Treatment List Submissions

d. Peer Recovery Referral Report

e. Declined Treatment Report

f. Quality Assurance Report – Screening and Assessment

g. IOP Client Management Spreadsheet

2. The Department may modify report format, content, or submission methods during the Contract term to meet operational or oversight needs.

C. Supervision Reports (Contractor Generated)

1. The Contractor shall develop, maintain and submit Supervision Reports in accordance with COMAR 10.58.07. Supervision Reports shall document required clinical and administrative supervision provided to Contractor Personnel.

2. At a minimum, Supervision Reports shall include:

a. Chart Review Log

b. Assessment Review Log

c. Clinical Supervision Hours Log

3. Supervision Reports shall:

a. Be completed monthly for each staff member requiring supervision;

b. Be e-mailed to the Contract Manager no later than five (5) business days following the end of the reporting month; and

c. Be made available to the Department upon request for monitoring, audit, or compliance review.

4. Failure to provide required supervision, failure to complete Supervision Reports, or failure to submit Supervision Reports within the required timeframes may result in liquidated damages as set forth in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

D. Incident and Matter of Record Reporting

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1. The Contractor shall report the following incidents to the Contractor Manager within twenty-four (24) hours of occurrence using Exhibit 23, Matter of Record:

a. Unexpected or unexplained deaths;

b. All suicides, attempted or completed;

c. Assaults on Contractor staff;

d. Incarcerated individual assaults requiring medical treatment;

e. Emergency responses necessary to preserve or resuscitate life, including

911 events;

f. Work-related injuries involving Contractor personnel;

g. Detainee or Contractor Personnel exposure to infectious diseases or prophylaxis administration;

h. Security breaches (including lost keys, missing sharps or medications, or contraband);

i. Treatment errors, missed treatments, or missing documentation;

j. Disciplinary action, investigation, allegation of misconduct, or drug testing involving Contractor personnel assigned to this Contract; and

k. Additional information as requested.

E. The Contractor shall submit a monthly Staffing Report to include positions filled and candidates’ status within the hiring process.

F. Failure to provide any required report may result in liquidated damages as found in

G. Employee Roster System

1. The Contractor shall implement and maintain an electronic employee roster system that provides the Department with continuous, real-time access. The system must include all active and inactive staff and subcontractor personnel assigned to the Contract and working within a facility, even if the staff are onsite on a limited basis and be uploaded to the Department’s Document Management System in an approved format.

2. The Employee Roster System must be fully operational within forty-five days of Contract Commencement and kept current at all times to reflect new hires, terminations, leaves of absence, or changes in assignment.

a. Failure to implement the Employee Roster System in the timeframe specified may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

3. The Contractor shall ensure all credential and training records remain current throughout the term of the Contract. The roster shall be updated within five (5) business days of any personnel change, credential renewal, or new staff onboarding.

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a. Failure to update the roster within the timeframe specified may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

4. The roster shall include, at a minimum, the following information and associated documentation for each staff member.

a. Full Name

b. Position

c. FTE designation (Based on 1.0 FTE)

d. Facility(s) Assignment

e. Hours Worked

f. Average caseloads, where applicable

g. Work E-mail

h. Phone Number

i. Required background check/criminal history check

j. Drug Testing

k. Verification of education, training, and work history

l. List of all trainings completed with date

(RFP Section 2.5.6, Staff Orientation and Training)

m. License/Certification Status

n. Employment Start and End Date (if applicable)

5. For every staffing vacancy, the Roster must indicate the current recruitment status, such as: Ongoing, Candidate Identified, Background Check in Progress, Training or Orientation and Scheduled Start Date.

6. For each resignation of Contractor Staff, the Department reserves the right to conduct exit interviews.

7. All data within the Roster is the property of the Department. At the end of the Contract, or upon request, the Contractor must transfer all Roster data and credentialing records to the Department in a format approved by the Department.

H. Reporting Compliance and Enforcement

1. Failure to complete any required report or data element accurately and timely may result in liquidated damages found in Appendix 10, Liquidated Damages.

2. Repeated reporting deficiencies may be considered a material breach of the Contract.

I. State Service Interruptions and Operational Restrictions

1. The Contractor shall comply with all Department and facility security requirements, including lockdowns, restricted movement, facility closures, or

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2. When institutional operations, including lockdowns, restricted movement, facility closures, or other Department or State caused operational restrictions prevent, or materially limit the Contractor’s access to an individual or otherwise prevent the Contractor from performing a required service, the Contractor shall document the date, nature, duration, and reason for the operational restriction and notify the Department Contract Manager.

3. The Department will review the documented circumstances beyond the Contractor’s control and whether any applicable performance requirements or Liquidated Damaged should be adjusted or waived.

4. The Contractor shall not be subject to Liquidated Damages for a failure to perform a required service when the Department determines that the failure resulted from circumstances beyond the Contractor’s control.

5. The Contractor shall complete the required services when access or operations are restored and shall document any resulting change to service delivery or scheduling.

2.5.4 Staffing Requirements

A. General Staffing Requirements

1. All FTE staff shall perform work exclusively under this Contract for the hours associated with their designation. Dual billing or assignment to any other contract during the same work hours is prohibited without prior written Department approval.

B. Required Staffing

1. The Contractor shall provide the following staffing exclusively for this Contract.

The staffing levels must be in place at Contract Commencement:

Title Staffing Level Requirements

Program Clinical Director For Screening and Assessments

1- FTE

Oversight of all clinical services under this contract.

Minimum 40 hrs/week. May not be assigned to any other DPSCS contract. Onsite 40%, Telework 60% optional

Program Clinical Director For MOUD

1- FTE

other DPSCS contract. Onsite 40%, Telework 60%

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Program Clinical Director For IOP

1- FTE West 1- FTE Central/ East other DPSCS contract. Onsite 80%, Telework 20%

Clinical Supervisor 1- FTE West 1- FTE Central/ East

Clinical Supervisor of Screening and Assessors and MOUD Counselors. Minimum 40hrs/week onsite. May not be assigned to any other DPSCS contract.

IOP Clinical Supervisor 3 - FTE West, Central, East

Clinical Supervisor of IOP Counselors. Minimum of 40/hrs. week onsite. May not be assigned to any other DPSCS contract or caseload.

Screening and Assessors 8 – FTE Minimum 40/hrs per week, 100% on-site.

MOUD Counselors As required to maintain Caseloads of 50

Maintain sufficient MOUD Counselor staffing to ensure caseloads remain below fifty (50) participants per Counselor at all times. At contract commencement, the Contractor shall provide no fewer than thirty-five

(35) MOUD counselors. 100% on-site.

IOP Counselors As required to maintain caseloads of 15

Maintain sufficient IOP Counselors to ensure caseloads remain below fifteen (15) participants per Counselor at all times. At contract commencement, the Contractor shall provide no fewer than thirteen (13) Counselors.

100% on-site.

Allied Health Staff / Peer Recovery Specialists

As Required 13 AHS/PRS at contract start. 100% on-site.

6.5 Assigned to IOP, 6.5 Assigned to MOUD

2. The Department will provide a Quarterly Staffing Matrix outlining the number of required staffing that will be needed to perform the required services. The Department-issued Quarterly Staffing Matrix shall supersede any Contractor staffing projections or assumptions.

a. Contractor staffing performance shall be measured in accordance with Appendix 11 – Staffing Service Level Agreement (SLA). Failure to meet the staffing performance standards established in Appendix 11 may result in the assessment of Service Credits as provided therein.

Assessment of Service Credits does not limit the Department’s right to pursue any other remedies available under the Contract.

C. Staff Credentialing and Pre-Employment Approval

RFP for Department…