RFQ 2026HCA5.pdf

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)

RFQ NO. 2026HCA5

NOTE: If you download this RFQ from any source other than the Washington Electronic Business Solution (WEBS), you are responsible for registering in WEBS for your organization to receive any RFQ amendments, including Bidder questions/agency answers. HCA is not responsible for any failure of your organization to register in WEBS or any other repercussions that may result to your organization because of this failure.

PROJECT TITLE: Mental Health Assessment for Young Children (MHAYC) Workforce Collaborative

BID DUE DATE: May 26, 2026 by 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time, Olympia, Washington, USA.

Only e-mailed bids will be accepted.

ESTIMATED TIME PERIOD FOR CONTRACT: July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027

The Health Care Authority reserves the right to extend the contract for up to two (2) additional one (1)-year periods at its sole discretion, for equal or equivalent funding amounts as the original contract, dependent on mutual agreement of the contract terms by the parties.

BIDDER ELIGIBILITY: This solicitation is open to those Bidders that satisfy the minimum qualifications stated herein and that are available for work in Washington State.

COMMODITY CODES:

The following commodity codes have been used in WEBS in connection with this solicitation:

• 924-25: For Credit Classes, Seminars, Workshops, etc.

• 915-23: Conference Coordinating and Planning Services

• 918-38: Education and Training Consulting

• 962-34: Event Planning Services

• 918-67: Consulting Services

HCA RFQ No. Page 1 of 29

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 DEFINITIONS

1.2 ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION ACTIVITIES

1.3 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

1.4 BACKGROUND

1.5 SCOPE OF WORK

1.6 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1.7 FUNDING

1.8 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

1.9 ADA

2. GENERAL INFORMATION FOR BIDDERS

2.1 RFQ COORDINATOR

2.2 PRE-BID CONFERENCE

2.3 LETTER OF INTENT TO BID

2.4 INTERESTED SUBCONTRACTOR LIST

2.5 BIDDER QUESTIONS PERIOD

2.6 SUBMISSION OF BIDS

2.7 PROPRIETARY INFORMATION / PUBLIC DISCLOSURE

2.8 REVISIONS TO THE RFQ

2.9 COMPLAINT PROCESS

2.10 RESPONSIVENESS

2.11 MOST FAVORABLE TERMS

2.12 RECEIPT OF INSUFFICIENT NUMBER OF BIDS

2.13 NO OBLIGATION TO CONTRACT

2.14 REJECTION OF BIDS

2.15 SUBCONTRACTOR PARTICIPATION MONITORING AND REPORTING

3. BID CONTENTS AND REQUIREMENTS

3.1 BID CONTENTS OVERVIEW

3.2 BID REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES

3.3 BIDDER PROFILE & SUBMITTAL FORM (MANDATORY)

3.4 DIVERSE BUSINESS INCLUSION PLAN (MANDATORY)

3.5 EXECUTIVE ORDER 18-03 (SCORED)

3.6 WASHINGTON SMALL AND/OR CERTIFIED VETERAN OWNED BUSINESSES (SCORED)

3.7 REFERENCES (MANDATORY/SCORED)

3.8 DRAFT CONTRACT (OPTIONAL/NOT SCORED)

3.9 QUALIFICATIONS (MANDATORY/SCORED)

4. EVALUATION AND CONTRACT AWARD

4.1 EVALUATION PROCEDURE

4.2 EVALUATION WEIGHTING AND SCORING

4.3 BEST AND FINAL OFFER (BAFO)

4.4 SUBSTANTIALLY EQUIVALENT SCORES

4.5 NOTIFICATION TO BIDDERS

4.6 DEBRIEFING OF UNSUCCESSFUL BIDDERS

4.7 PROTEST PROCEDURE

5. RFQ EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT A – BIDDER FORMS AND CERTIFICATIONS

EXHIBIT B – DRAFT CONTRACT

EXHIBIT C – QUALIFICATIONS

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 2 of 29

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 DEFINITIONS

Definitions for the purposes of this RFQ include:

Allied Professionals – A professional whose role helps support the infant through early childhood mental health system of care. Key examples of allied professionals may include:

• Mental health or substance use disorder (SUD) professionals who work with the families (parents, caregivers, and/or siblings) of infants and young children;

• Non mental health professionals working within the behavioral health field, such as peer counselors, care coordinators, supervisors, billing staff, office managers, and agency administrators;

• Individuals working within fields that serve the early childhood population, such as pediatric primary or specialty care, home visiting, early intervention, habilitative/rehabilitative services (OT/PT/ST), early education and care, infant through early childhood mental health consultation, family resource coordination, child welfare, family treatment/early childhood court, economic supports, cultural or spiritual/religious community-based programming; and

• Individuals whose oversee the policy and finance of the behavioral health and/or early childhood fields, such as health maintenance organization staff, private funders, advocates, legislators, federal, state, and county agency staff.

Apparent Successful Bidder (ASB) – The Bidder selected as the entity to perform the anticipated services under this RFQ, subject to completion of contract negotiations and execution of a written contract.

Apple Health Outreach Partners – Any professional whose role helps support the identification for, referral to, and coordination of Apple Health mental health assessment, diagnosis, and other related services. Key examples of referral and coordination partners include direct service providers, organizational leadership, and System Partners working within fields that serve the early childhood population such as:

• Developmental and educational services, such as developmental disability services, early intervention, early childhood education and care, and special education;

• Family and community services, such as home visiting, play groups, parent education, parent support groups, and family resource coordination;

• Child welfare services such as family treatment/early childhood courts, and child advocacy;

• Basic need services such as housing, transportation, economic, and nutrition supports;

• Cultural, spiritual, recreational, and/or religious community-based programming; and

• Some individuals who meet criteria for the definition of an Outreach Partner may also meet the criteria for an Apple Health provider.

Bid – A formal offer submitted in response to this solicitation. To be responsive, a Bid must include all items outlined in Section 3 (BID CONTENTS AND REQUIREMENTS). One item that may be referred to throughout this document is:

1) Qualifications – Bidder’s qualifications as described in Section 3.8 and Exhibit C.

Bidder – An individual or company interested in the RFQ that submits a Bid to attain a contract with the Health Care Authority.

Business Day – Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Pacific Time, except for holidays observed by the state of Washington, unless otherwise specified within the RFQ.

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 3 of 29

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services or CMS – The federal office under the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, responsible for the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

Client – An individual who is eligible for or receiving services through HCA program(s).

Clinical providers – Licensend, credentialed, or certified health care professionals who have the assessment and diagnosis of developmental and mental health disorders within their scope of practice.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs) – CEUs are used to certify completion of an educational program or professional development training to assist professionals in maintaining their license and/or certification in their profession. Many fields require this certification to confirm the professional is staying current on best practices.

Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood or DC:0-5™ – The internationally accepted system for developmentally appropriate assessment of young children’s mental health. The DC:0-5™ uses developmentally-specific diagnostic criteria that reflects mental health disorders that are typically diagnosed in infancy and early childhood.

The term DC:0-5™ may also refer to any subsequent version of the manual as determined by HCA.

DC:0-5™ Certified Trainer – An individual who is currently certified through the organization Zero to Three (ZTT) as having certified trainer status. Experience includes successful completion of DC:0-5™ Clinical Training, participation in ZTT Office Hours, participation in at least five (5) clock hours of professional developing in the areas of infant and early childhood mental health, and current attestation to uphold the ZTT Code of Practice, Values and Ethics.

DC:0-5™ Clinical Training – A training designed to support mental health clinicians in adopting the approach, understanding the multi-axial system, and utilizing the classification system in their work with children birth through age five (5). Clinicians will be supported in adopting approaches to diagnosis and assessment that are developmentally informed, relationship-based, and culturally competent.

DC:0-5™ Crosswalk – A reference guide for clinicians that helps to convert DC:0-5™ diagnoses to associated International Classification of Diseases (ICD) diagnostic codes and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) diagnoses. HCA will publish an interim and community-informed Washington Apple Health DC:0-5™ crosswalk, based upon the national crosswalk from ZTT.

DC:0-5™ Overview Training – A training that serves as an overview of DC:0-5™, providing a foundation for understanding this diagnostic system for professionals who work with infants and young children. The training will provide participants with an overview of the background, approach, and content areas of DC:0-5™ and is particularly helpful for allied professionals in understanding the importance of developmentally appropriate diagnostic practices.

DC:0-5™ Training of Trainers (TOT) – Training provided by ZTT that is designed to engage and coach new trainers that have past experience utilizing the DC:0-5™ and have completed the DC:0-5™ Clinical Training. A TOT can build a pool of competent trainers who can then provide the DC:0-5™ Clinical and Overview Training to others.

https://www.zerotothree.org/resources/1953-dc-0-5-a-briefing-paper-on-diagnostic-classification-of-mental-health-and-developmental-disorders-of-infancy-and-early-childhood https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwj144yv-IKUAxXaDTQIHZkOH34QFnoECCMQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zerotothree.org%2F&usg=AOvVaw3mBdvvZ4CLgBYeSPxOky3J&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwj144yv-IKUAxXaDTQIHZkOH34QFnoECCMQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zerotothree.org%2F&usg=AOvVaw3mBdvvZ4CLgBYeSPxOky3J&opi=89978449 https://www.zerotothree.org/resource/values-and-ethical-standards/

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 4 of 29

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging or DEIB includes the following meanings:

• Diversity – The presence of differences that may include race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, Tribal affiliation, socioeconomic status, geographic location, educational background, workforce sector, language, (dis)ability, age, or political perspective, with a particular focus on populations that have been, and remain, underrepresented among practitioners in the field and marginalized in the broader society.

• Equity – Promoting justice, impartiality and fairness within the procedures, processes, and distribution of resources by institutions or systems. Tackling equity issues requires an understanding of the root causes of outcome disparities within our society.

• Inclusion – An outcome to ensure those that are diverse actually feel and/or are welcomed.

Inclusion outcomes are met when you, your institution, and your program are truly inviting to all, to the degree to which diverse individuals are able to participate fully in the decision-making processes and development opportunities within an organization or group.

• Belonging – A sense of connection, acceptance and security within a group, place or community.

Health Care Authority or HCA – An executive agency of the state of Washington that is issuing this

RFQ.

Infant-Early Childhood Mental Health or IECMH – The field and practice aimed at supporting children from birth through age five (5) in their social-emotional development including forming close relationships, expressing and managing emotions, and exploration of their environment. Professionals focused on supporting children birth through age five (5) across the promotion, prevention and treatment continuum, and grounded in relationship-based support for children, families and communities.

Managed Care Organization – An organization having a certificate of authority or certificate of registration from the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner that contracts with HCA under a comprehensive risk contract to provide prepaid health care services to enrollees under the agency's managed care programs (WAC 182-538-050).

Medicaid (Washington Apple Health) – The public health insurance programs for eligible Washington residents. Washington Apple Health is the name used in Washington state for Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and state-only funded health care programs (WAC 182-500).

Medicaid (Apple Health) Client – A person who is an applicant for, or recipient of, any Washington Apple Health program, including managed care and long-term care (WAC 182-500).

Medicaid (Apple Health) Eligible Individual – An individual who meets the criteria for eligibility for the Apple Health program (who may or may not be enrolled).

Medicaid (Apple Health) Contracted Provider – A person that is licensed, certified, accredited, or registered according to Washington state law, and has: (a) A signed core provider agreement or contract with HCA or the agency's designee, and is authorized to provide health care, goods, and services to Washington Apple Health clients; or (b) Authorization from a managed care organization (MCO) that contracts with the agency or the agency's designee to provide health care, goods, and services to eligible Washington Apple Health clients enrolled in the MCO plan (WAC 182-500).

Mental Health Assessment for Young Children or MHAYC – A set of Apple Health billing and clinical policies to align mental health and developmental assessment and diagnosis services with best practices, in accordance with RCW 74.09.520 (11).

Mental Health Assessment for Young Children Workforce Collaborative (MHAYC-WC) – A comprehensive professional development program to support the development and readiness of mental health professionals as a result of the implementation of HB 1325 to include the Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood training.

The Contractor will act as the facilitator for the MHAYC-WC.

https://dei.extension.org/ https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiAo9P3z_KTAxUkDzQIHTsYGKAQFnoECBUQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.insurance.wa.gov%2F&usg=AOvVaw3klMqFKAALk48hIsvpQq69&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiSlLSm-oKUAxUTDTQIHe7eC08QFnoECBgQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fwac%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D182-538-050&usg=AOvVaw29t0tzBkv4v_xItANt1t7a&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwj08q-50PKTAxVNMDQIHcSxKQcQFnoECBgQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fwac%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D182-500&usg=AOvVaw36ydawJsks9HJkcHON72VY&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwj08q-50PKTAxVNMDQIHcSxKQcQFnoECBgQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fwac%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D182-500&usg=AOvVaw36ydawJsks9HJkcHON72VY&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiqo_DS-oKUAxVbDTQIHfhhB6EQFnoECA4QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Frcw%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D74.09.520&usg=AOvVaw06KWNTSTPt9SsiVdxxljHd&opi=89978449 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27570937/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27570937/

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 5 of 29

Mental Health Assessment for Young Children (MHAYC) – A set of Apple Health billing and clinical policies to align mental health and developmental assessment and diagnosis services with best practices, in accordance with RCW 74.09.520 (11).

Mental Health Clinician – A professional whose role fits the definition of a “mental health professional” as defined in WAC 246-341-0515. Key examples of a mental health professional may include:

• A psychiatrist, psychologist, physician assistant working with a supervising psychiatrist, psychiatric advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP), psychiatric nurse, or social worker as defined in RCW 71.05 and 71.34.

• A person who is licensed by the Washington State Department of Health as a mental health counselor or mental health counselor associate, marriage and family therapist, or marriage and family therapist associate.

• An agency affiliated counselor as defined by rule WAC 246-810-016 or 246-810-017.

Organizational Leadership – Individuals within an organization who have decision-making authority regarding organizational policies and procedures, such as directors, managers, and supervisors.

Professional Development Offering or PDO – A structured form of provider education and training that is intended to increase knowledge and skills. PDOs may be synchronous or asynchronous, single session or multi-session, and may be structured in the form of trainings, courses, panels, presentations, communities of practice, communities of learning, and/or facilitated case studies. For the purposes of this contract, clinical supervision is not considered a type of PDO.

Request for Qualifications (RFQ) – Formal solicitation document in which a service or need is identified, and firms are invited to provide their qualifications to provide the services.

Revised Code of Washington (RCW) – The laws of the state of Washington, as enacted by the Legislature. Any references to specific titles, chapters, or sections of the RCW include any substitute, successor, or replacement title, chapter, or section. Pertinent RCW chapters can be accessed at:

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/.

State Training and Registering System or STARS means the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) mandatory training and education tracking system for early learning professionals to complete training through the Managed Education and Registry Information Tool (MERIT) portal.

Subcontractor – A person, partnership, or entity not in the employment of or owned by the Bidder, who would be performing all or part of the services under this RFQ under a separate contract with or on behalf of the Bidder. The term “Subcontractor” means Subcontractors in any tier.

System of Care or SOC – A spectrum of effective, community-based services and supports for children and youth with or at risk for mental health or other challenges and their families, that is organized into a coordinated network, builds meaningful partnerships with families and youth, and addresses their cultural and linguistic needs, in order to help them to function better at home, in school, in the community, and throughout life (SOC Toolkit).

System Partners –Individuals and/or organizations who may not provide direct services to children and families, but play an important role in the systemic effectiveness of such services. Key examples of System Partners include individuals who work or study in sectors such as federal, state, and local government, research, higher education, training and technical assistance, and advocacy.

Washington’s Electronic Business Solution or WEBS – An internet-based bid notification system HCA uses to post competitive solicitations. Individuals and firms interested in state contracting opportunities with the Department of Enterprise Services or any state agency should register for competitive solicitation notices on WEBS. Note: There is no cost to register on WEBS.

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwi2-aCS0fKTAxWsFDQIHfnlEbEQFnoECA4QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Frcw%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D74.09.520&usg=AOvVaw06KWNTSTPt9SsiVdxxljHd&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjdm9bq0PKTAxWmx-YEHbHPK5UQFnoECBUQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fwac%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D246-341-0515&usg=AOvVaw2gAAOe6UvLdh6GESYGPX2g&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiI352o0fKTAxXWHzQIHeFvLwkQFnoECBYQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Frcw%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D71.05&usg=AOvVaw3c5FY3oX4_1kiKEKSIZzkI&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjxn56w0fKTAxWCITQIHeMPDOoQFnoECBUQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Frcw%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D71.34&usg=AOvVaw0O5LQjsS4ha-zQag0hHNrY&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwi9_8u_0fKTAxVyFjQIHXHNFNoQFnoECB8QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdoh.wa.gov%2F&usg=AOvVaw2qFKZ-M1l8u_VC46LHHXLN&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiq88DV0fKTAxUMFDQIHfynHN8QFnoECA4QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fwac%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D246-810-016&usg=AOvVaw2mFnGh2UDcYOjJVikmtrnW&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiLptjb0fKTAxW0JzQIHfd-AA0QFnoECAwQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.leg.wa.gov%2Fwac%2Fdefault.aspx%3Fcite%3D246-810-017&usg=AOvVaw1NSHAEiJB5cc8EJda7LVHj&opi=89978449 http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/ https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwigwKP70fKTAxUcFjQIHWm9IM0QFnoECAwQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdcyf.wa.gov%2F&usg=AOvVaw1l_x4jsKxdwZRxmmyBwTcq&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwigwKP70fKTAxUcFjQIHWm9IM0QFnoECAwQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdcyf.wa.gov%2F&usg=AOvVaw1l_x4jsKxdwZRxmmyBwTcq&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjn2-mJ0vKTAxXfODQIHdn9NUgQFnoECBcQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdcyf.wa.gov%2Fservices%2Fearlylearning-profdev%2Fmerit&usg=AOvVaw1oLRCyhi1la0JJUhcM6GHp&opi=89978449 https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwjn2-mJ0vKTAxXfODQIHdn9NUgQFnoECBcQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdcyf.wa.gov%2Fservices%2Fearlylearning-profdev%2Fmerit&usg=AOvVaw1oLRCyhi1la0JJUhcM6GHp&opi=89978449 https://gucchd.georgetown.edu/products/Toolkit_SOC_Resource1.pdf https://www.des.wa.gov/services/contracting-purchasing/doing-business-state/webs-registration-search-tips

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 6 of 29

Zero to Three or ZTT – A nonprofit organization focused on the healthy development of babies and toddlers from birth to three years old. Their mission is to support all our nation’s babies, toddlers, and their families so that every child has the best possible start in life by providing a solid foundation filled with emotionally supportive relationships, ZTT ensures that all children, regardless of their backgrounds, have the tools they need to develop their potential.

1.2 ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION ACTIVITIES

Issue Request for Qualifications 4/22/2026

Pre-Bid Conference Thursday 4/30/2026 9:00 a.m., Pacific Time

Bidder Questions Due 5/4/2026, 2:00 p.m.

HCA Answers Posted* 5/7/2026

Interested Subcontractor Responses Due 5/8/2026

Interested Subcontractor List Posted* 5/8/2026

Complaints Due (if applicable) 5/12/2026

Bids Due 5/26/2026, 2:00 p.m.

Evaluate Bids* 5/27/2026 – 6/4/2026

Conduct Oral Presentations with Finalists, if required 6/8/2026

Announce “Apparent Successful Bidder” via WEBS* 6/10/2026

Debrief Request Deadline (3 Business Days after the ASB announcement)

6/15/2026, 5:00 p.m.

Negotiate Contract 6/16/2026-6/30/2026

Begin Contract Work 7/1/2026

*Dates are anticipated and subject to change without an official amendment.

HCA reserves the right in its sole discretion to revise the above schedule at any time.

1.3 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES

The Washington State Health Care Authority, hereafter called “HCA,” is initiating this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit Bids from firms interested in providing trainings, Technical Assistance (TA) and other implementation activities that are expected to build workforce knowledge and capacity of approximately six hundred fifty (650) Apple Health mental health professionals and five hundred

(500) allied professionals, meeting the requirement to utilize the Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infants and Early Childhood (DC:0-5™) as outlined in RCW

74.09.520 (2021 c 126 § 2).

The Contractor will provide DC:0-5™ Clinical training to Apple Health mental health professionals, as well as other professional development offerings that support MHAYC implementation, including additional related training for Apple Health providers and partners.

https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChsSEwicvvfAzPKTAxVF1MIEHYSmKvYYACICCAEQABoCcHY&co=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwkYLPBhC3ARIsAIyHi3Se0DZJ-1c3SXqe2ceTKuQg3vMHyIKHUkPN1s6CSEdIh2Ke-v0sVtMaAjkfEALw_wcB&cid=CAASuwHkaLn8kMv-CFYRAEqr2bsrpoAD9w-6SS3GnHrPwDyUYYBFjT2erHlhIuG4hARDE09Kytft5L8zCAAnQorQaUHAPcUQF4HBw0kU-SNHEMwZrohw5yobUEhhTmjFf1Uigg3VtB-eGwz4ZiRw3IDTEgkBMGbVNzh854ndfQwijQipBJOxhF7T_C-3hwz9qJdgcEbLjo7_rPdldJi2YYzrfXTGNQBtagMfgQ8V630a5nZj6nX6yjl9cr1l2s_M&cce=2&sig=AOD64_1KEQkDMbPAoMVKhkIpzAjVrH5asg&q&adurl&ved=2ahUKEwi68fDAzPKTAxXPMzQIHTP2Ik0Q0Qx6BAgUEAE https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=74.09.520 https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=74.09.520 https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/Session%20Laws/House/1325-S2.SL.pdf?cite=2021%20c%20126%20%C2%A7%202

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 7 of 29

The Contractor will also provide other administrative services including recruitment of participants and promotion of training, planning and development, evaluation of training effectiveness and participant feedback, and coordination with state agencies and key partners that support proper and efficient administration of the Medicaid State Plan.

HCA intends to award one (1) contract to provide the services described in this RFP.

1.4 BACKGROUND

About one (1) in five (5) young children have a mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder. When caught early, these conditions can be treated effectively. Accurate assessment is the first step for effective treatment. Data shows that young children in Washington face barriers in access to both mental health assessment and treatment. Washington’s IECMH community worked together for several years to champion policy change that would support developmentally appropriate assessment and diagnosis for young children. In 2021, HB 1325 amended state law (RCW 74.09.520(11)) to better align Apple Health billing and clinical policy with known best practices, including use of the DC:0-5™. However, instruction on the DC:0-5™ is not yet incorporated into standard graduate level educational programs for health care providers, and so most providers need post-graduate training to meet this Apple Health requirement.

Funds for statewide professional development, as well as other key aspects of MHAYC implementation, were directed to HCA by Section 215 Proviso 43 of the 2021-2023 Budget Bill. In 2022, the state legislature also approved HCA to pursue federal matching funds for this project, when appropriate. Since 2023, these funds have been allocated to ongoing maintenance level funding.

HCA does not have the capacity or expertise to manage a statewide professional development initiative of this scope. For this reason, HCA is seeking to identify a Contractor to fully manage these efforts through the MHAYC WC.

Resources:

• “Research review: A meta-analysis of the international prevalence and comorbidity of mental disorders in children between 1 and 7 years,” Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry.

• “Cost-effectiveness of infant and early childhood mental health treatment,” Georgetown Infant &

Early Child Mental Health Technical Assistance Center

• Journal of

"Mental Health Assessment for Young Children: Advocacy Timeline," Washington State Health Care Authority https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=74.09.520 http://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2021-22/Pdf/Bills/Session%20Laws/Senate/5092-S.SL.pdf https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/jcpp.13261 https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/jcpp.13261 https://gucchd.georgetown.edu/Docs/iecmh/Cost-Effectiveness%20of%20Infant%20and%20Early%20Childhood%20Mental%20Health%20Treatment.pdf https://www.hca.wa.gov/assets/program/timeline-of-advocacy-mental-health-assessment-for-young-children.pdf

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 8 of 29

1.5 SCOPE OF WORK

The awarded Contractor will provide the following services:

1. Facilitate DC:0-5™ and related trainings to Apple Health providers, their organizational leadership, system partners and Outreach Partners and providers, free of charge to participants, and mostly in a virtual format (in-person if funding and other circumstances allow), including the following;

1.1. DC:0-5™Clinical Training and DC:0-5™ Overview Training, using proprietary curriculum and trainers certified by ZTT to facilitate the training;

1.2. Organizational training for the Organizational Leadership of Apple Health providers;

1.3. Foundational training for Apple Health providers and system partners;

1.4. Early identification and referral training to Apple Health Outreach Partners;

1.5. Workshops for mental health professionals or allied professionals, in alignment with the MHAYC-WC knowledge and skill objectives, DC:0-5™ and DEIB principles; and

1.6. Advanced clinical professional training offerings to Apple Health providers including clinicians and supervisors, and other system and Outreach Partners.

2. Manage administrative tasks required to host trainings and other related activities referenced in the Contract, including:

2.1. Online registration system;

2.2. Online training platform;

2.3. Identifying, recruiting, and promoting participation of eligible training participants among Apple Health providers and partners in professional development offered under this Contract;

2.4. Planning and development activities and strategies that support and improve the coordination and delivery of, expand access to, and increased provider participation in Apple Health mental health and developmental assessment, diagnosis and related health care services for young children through professional development trainings, support and resources; and

2.5. Evaluation and reporting, through maintaining a comprehensive data management and evaluation process to monitor the delivery of and evaluate the need for Apple Health mental health and developmental assessment, diagnosis, and related health care services, specifically by analyzing data generated under and/or relevant to activities referenced in the contract.

3. Participate with Tribal partnership and collaboration activities.

4. DC:0-5 trainer support and coordination, including promoting advanced provider skills training for Apple Health providers by ensuring a well-prepared cohesive cohort of certified DC:0-5 state trainers.

5. Coordinate activities with other partners.

6. Collaboration with the state Medicaid agency (Health Care Authority).

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 9 of 29

7. MHAYC Workforce Collaborative Online Resource Hub: Online resource hub to provide support and information to providers on the application of DC:05 for everyday practice.

8. Subcontracting with certified trainers and others to accomplish Contract goals, where applicable.

For more details on the Statement of Work, see Attachment #, Draft Contract, for a detailed Statement of Work.

1.6 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

The following are the minimum qualifications for Bidders:

1. Licensed to do business in the state of Washington or provide a commitment that it will become licensed in Washington within thirty (30) calendar days of being selected as the Apparent Successful Bidder.

2. IECMH experience:

2.1 Four (4) years incorporating IECMH principles and practice into work, including but not limited to the DC:0-5™;

2.2 Four (4) years managing marketing and outreach efforts to the IECMH community, including multiple channels and targeting audiences; and

2.3 Four (4) years experience facilitating and/or coordinating professional development offerings for IECMH providers.

3. Four (4) years experience supporting mental health clinicians and/or key allied professionals in an infant-early childhood mental health system of care.

4. Directly employ or subcontract with at least one (1) certified DC:0-5™ trainer as a full or part-time staff member for this project.

1.7 FUNDING

HCA has budgeted an amount not to exceed three hundred fifty thousand dollars ($350,000) for this project. Bids in excess of three hundred fifty thousand dollars ($350,000) will be considered non-responsive and will not be evaluated.

Funds were allocated through Section 215 Proviso 43 of the 2021-2023 Budget Bill to be used for MHAYC implementation support, including professional development initiatives. Through the 2022 Supplementary Budget, the legislature approved HCA to pursue federal matching funds for this project, when appropriate, up to one hundred percent (100%) of the total state funds allocated. These funds have been allocated as ongoing Maintenance level funding.

HCA has budgeted an amount not to exceed Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand ($350,000) for the initial fiscal year of this contract, with the possibility of amending for two (2) additional fiscal years, at an equal or comparable funding amount, for a total maximum compensation over an aggregated three (3) year period of an estimated total of $1,050,000.

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 10 of 29

Funding for SFY2027 is broken down as follows:

Description % of Direct Costs Amount

Direct (Project) Costs $305,000

Indirect Costs 15% $45,000

Total Maximum Contract Compensation $350,000

Any contract awarded as a result of this solicitation is contingent upon the availability of funding.

1.8 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The period of performance of any contract resulting from this RFP is tentatively scheduled to begin on or about July 2026 and to end on June 30, 2027. Amendments extending the period of performance, if any, will be at the sole discretion of HCA.

HCA reserves the right to extend the contract for two (2) one (1) year periods.

1.9 ADA

HCA complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Bidders may contact the RFQ Coordinator to receive written information in another format (e.g., large print, audio, accessible electronic formats, and other formats).

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 11 of 29

2. GENERAL INFORMATION FOR BIDDERS

2.1 RFQ COORDINATOR

The RFQ Coordinator is the sole point of contact in HCA for this solicitation. All communication between the Bidder and HCA upon release of this RFQ must be with the RFQ Coordinator, as follows:

Name Heidi Jones

E-Mail Address HCAProcurements@hca.wa.gov

Any other communication will be considered unofficial and non-binding on HCA. Bidders are to rely on written statements issued by the RFQ Coordinator. Communication directed to parties other than the RFQ Coordinator may result in disqualification of the Bidder.

2.2 PRE-BID CONFERENCE

A pre-bid conference is scheduled to be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., Pacific Time via a video-conferencing tool, using this link, at HCA’s discretion. All prospective Bidders should attend; however, attendance is not mandatory. An agenda containing meeting details, the presentation, and any application questions and answers, will be posted as an amendment to this solicitation.

HCA will be bound only to HCA written answers to questions. Questions arising at the pre-bid conference or in subsequent communication with the RFQ Coordinator will be documented and answered in written form. A copy of the questions and answers will be posted on WEBS as an Amendment to this RFQ.

2.3 LETTER OF INTENT TO BID

Intentionally omitted.

2.4 INTERESTED SUBCONTRACTOR LIST

HCA supports and encourages contracts and subcontracts with small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses. To support participation in this process, the RFQ Coordinator will add a list of Interested Subcontractors to the RFQ. The RFQ Coordinator will prepare the List based on the timely and complete submission of specific information requested in this section. The purpose of the List is to communicate to prime bidders the capabilities of interested subcontractors who can perform components of this RFQ’s Scope of Work.

1. Interested Subcontractor Instructions

i. Failure to follow the instructions in this Section may prevent your information from being included in the List.

ii. An interested party must complete the below table to submit their firm name, contact information, and the summary of their capabilities as they relate to this RFQ’s Scope of Work. Submissions are limited to what is requested in the table below and capability summaries must be two paragraphs or less.

mailto:HCAProcurements@hca.wa.gov https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/285000703195849?p=7NLi1GewyHqsSYwNKT

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 12 of 29

iii. The RFQ Coordinator will only include the information requested below. Do not submit marketing materials.

iv. Submissions must be emailed to the RFQ Coordinator, with the subject line “RFP # Interested Subcontractor List – [Interested Subcontractor Name]” by the date specified in Section 1.2 (ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION ACTIVITIES).

v. All material submitted for the Interested Subcontractor List becomes a public record.

2. Posting Date

Complete and timely submissions will be compiled and posted in alphabetical order by interested subcontractor name. HCA anticipates the List will be posted as an RFP amendment on the Interested Subcontractor List Posted date identified in Section 1.2 (ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION ACTIVITIES). Late submissions will not be posted.

3. Information Provided As-Is

The Interested Subcontractor List is provided as an opportunity to support participation in this RFQ. HCA provides this information as a courtesy with no warranties or representations as to any party and no guarantee of a subcontract. The Interested Subcontractor List shall not be construed as an endorsement by the state of Washington or HCA. The interested party is responsible for the completeness and accuracy of their submission.

2.5 BIDDER QUESTIONS PERIOD

Bidders are provided an opportunity to ask questions during the bidder question period which starts on the date of the RFQ posting and concludes on the Questions Due date specified in Section 1.2

(ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION ACTIVITIES).

1. Questions regarding the RFQ will only be accepted in writing, sent by email to the RFQ Coordinator. The Bidder must use the following email subject line when submitting questions:

“RFQ # Question(s) – [Bidder Name]” to ensure timely receipt.

2. HCA anticipates it will post answers to the questions in WEBS as an RFQ amendment on the Answers Posted date specified in Section 1.2 (ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION

ACTIVITIES).

3. HCA is under no obligation to respond to any questions received after the Questions Due date but may do so at its discretion.

Interested Subcontractor Name

Contact Name Contact Address, Phone Number, and Email Address

Summary of your capabilities as it relates to the Scope of Work

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 13 of 29

2.6 SUBMISSION OF BIDS

Bids must be received by the RFQ Coordinator no later than the Bid Due deadline in Section 1.2 (ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION ACTIVITIES). Bids must be submitted electronically as an attachment to an e-mail to the RFQ Coordinator at the e-mail address listed in Section 2.1, and meet the following requirements:

1. Attachments to e-mail must be in Microsoft Word format or PDF.

2. Zipped files cannot be received by HCA and cannot be used for submission of Bids.

3. The forms and certifications that require authorized signature (as designated in section 3.1, BID CONTENTS OVERVIEW) must have a signature of the individual within the organization authorized to bind the Bidder to the offer.

4. HCA does not assume responsibility for problems with Bidder’s e-mail. If HCA e-mail is not working, appropriate allowances will be made.

Bidders should allow sufficient time to ensure timely receipt of the bid by the RFQ Coordinator. Late bids will not be accepted and will be automatically disqualified from further consideration, unless HCA e-mail is found to be at fault or HCA deems a grace period is in the best interest of the State. All bids and any accompanying documentation become the property of HCA and will not be returned.

2.7 PROPRIETARY INFORMATION / PUBLIC DISCLOSURE

Bids submitted in response to this RFQ will become the property of HCA. All bids received will remain confidential until the Apparent Successful Bidder is announced; thereafter, the bids will be deemed public records as defined in chapter 42.56 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).

Any information in the bid that the Bidder desires to claim as proprietary and exempt from disclosure under chapter 42.56 RCW, or other state or federal law that provides for the nondisclosure of a document, must be clearly designated. Each page claimed to be exempt from disclosure must be clearly identified and must reference either: (1) the specific basis claimed under 42.56 RCW, or (2) a statement of why the information is designated propriety. Each page containing the information claimed to be exempt from disclosure must be clearly identified by the words “Proprietary Information” printed on the lower right-hand corner of the page. Marking the entire bid exempt from disclosure or as Proprietary Information will not be honored.

If a public records request is made for the information that the Bidder has marked as “Proprietary Information,” HCA will notify the Bidder of the request and of the date that the records will be released to the requester unless the Bidder obtains a court order enjoining that disclosure. If the Bidder fails to obtain the court order enjoining disclosure, HCA will release the requested information on the date specified. If a Bidder obtains a court order from a court of competent jurisdiction enjoining disclosure pursuant to chapter 42.56 RCW, or other state or federal law that provides for nondisclosure, HCA will maintain the confidentiality of the Bidder’s information per the court order.

A charge will be made for copying and shipping, as outlined in RCW 42.56. No fee will be charged for inspection of contract files, but 24 hours’ notice to the RFQ Coordinator is required. All requests for information should be directed to the RFQ Coordinator.

The submission of any public records request to HCA pertaining in any way to this RFQ will not affect the solicitation schedule, as outlined in Section 1.2, unless HCA, in its sole discretion, determines that altering the schedule would be in HCA’s best interests.

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 14 of 29

2.8 REVISIONS TO THE RFQ

If HCA determines in its sole discretion that it is necessary to revise any part of this RFQ, then HCA will publish addenda on WEBS. For this purpose, the published questions and answers and any other pertinent information will be provided as an addendum to the RFQ and will be published on WEBS.

HCA also reserves the right to cancel or to reissue the RFQ in whole or in part, prior to execution of a contract.

2.9 COMPLAINT PROCESS

The complaint process allows potential Bidders to focus on the solicitation requirements and evaluation process and raise issues early enough in the process to allow HCA to correct a problem before bids are submitted. The complaint period starts on the date of the RFQ posting and concludes on the Complaints Due date identified in Section 1.2 (ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF SOLICITATION

ACTIVITIES).

1. Potential Bidders may submit a complaint to HCA based on any of the following:

i. The RFQ unnecessarily restricts competition;

ii. The RFQ evaluation or scoring process is unfair or unclear; or

iii. The RFQ requirements are inadequate or insufficient to prepare a response.

2. For a complaint to be considered, it must be received by HCA by 5:00 pm PT on the Complaints Due date identified in Section 1.2. The complaint must:

i. Be in writing;

ii. Be sent to the RFQ Coordinator, or designee;

iii. Clearly articulate the basis for the complaint; and

iv. Include a proposed remedy.

3. HCA will address any complaint as follows:

i. The RFQ Coordinator, or designee will respond to the complaint in writing.

ii. The response to the complaint and any changes to the RFQ will be posted on WEBS.

iii. The Director of HCA will be notified of all complaints and will be provided a copy of HCA’s response.

Complaints may not be raised again during a protest and HCA’s action or inaction in response to a complaint will be final. There is no appeal process.

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 15 of 29

2.10 RESPONSIVENESS

The RFQ Coordinator will review all bids to determine compliance with administrative requirements and instructions specified in this RFQ. A Bidder’s failure to comply with any part of the RFQ may result in rejection of the bid as non-responsive.

HCA also reserves the right at its sole discretion to waive minor administrative irregularities.

2.11 MOST FAVORABLE TERMS

HCA reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the bid submitted. Therefore, the bid should be submitted initially on the most favorable terms which the Bidder can propose. HCA reserves the right to contact a Bidder for clarification of its bid.

The ASB should be prepared to accept this RFQ for incorporation into a contract resulting from this RFQ. The contract resulting from this RFQ will incorporate some, or all, of the Bidder’s bid. The bid will become a part of the official solicitation file on this matter without obligation to HCA.

2.12 RECEIPT OF INSUFFICIENT NUMBER OF BIDS

If HCA receives only one responsive bid as a result of this RFQ, HCA reserves the right to either: 1) directly negotiate and contract with the Bidder; or 2) not award any contract at all. HCA may continue to have the Bidder complete the entire RFQ. HCA is under no obligation to tell the Bidder if it is the only Bidder.

2.13 NO OBLIGATION TO CONTRACT

This RFQ does not obligate HCA to enter into any contract for services specified herein.

2.14 REJECTION OF BIDS

HCA reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to reject any and all bids received without penalty and not to issue any contract as a result of this RFQ.

2.15 SUBCONTRACTOR PARTICIPATION MONITORING AND REPORTING

Pursuant to Executive Order 22-01, Equity in Public Contracting (dated 01/07/2022), Bidders using Subcontractors for any part of this work will be subject to the requirements of this section if awarded a contract as a result of this solicitation.

Once a contract is awarded through the solicitation process, the awarded Contractor is obligated to complete a new vendor registration in Access Equity. Access Equity (B2Gnow) is a secure business diversity management system available online at https://omwbe.diversitycompliance.com/.

Confidential Information (e.g., Tax ID, etc.) will not be published in Access Equity. Contractors that have previously registered with B2Gnow for any public entity, must verify and ensure that Access Equity contains their most up-to-date registration information. Contractors can navigate online to Access Equity at https://omwbe.diversitycompliance.com/ or through a direct link on the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE) website at: https://omwbe.wa.gov/.

During the contract term, the Contractor will report monthly payments to all relevant Subcontractors in Access Equity. Monthly reporting information includes total dollar payments made to relevant Subcontractors, payment dates, and any additional information required to verify payment to Subcontractors. The Contractor will enter this payment information into Access Equity, and the Subcontractors will verify this payment information in the system. This requirement applies to both Contractors and Subcontractors. Online training is available through Access Equity.

https://omwbe.diversitycompliance.com/ https://omwbe.wa.gov/

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 16 of 29

3. BID CONTENTS AND REQUIREMENTS

3.1 BID CONTENTS OVERVIEW

Bids must be submitted per the instructions in Sections 2.6 (SUBMISSION OF BIDS) and 3.2 (BID REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES) in the order noted below.

1. Bidder Forms and Certifications (Exhibit A)

All the following are included in Exhibit A:

i. Bidder Profile & Submittal Form* (Section 3.3 and Exhibit A, Section A)

ii. Diverse Business Inclusion Plan (Section 3.4 and Exhibit A, Section B)

iii. Washington Small or Certified Veteran Owned Business certification (Section 3.6 and Exhibit A, Section E)

iv. Executive Order 18-03 Worker’s Rights* (Section 3.5 and Exhibit A, Section E)

v. References (Section 3.6 and Exhibit A, Section D)

2. Draft Contract (Section 3.7 and Exhibit B)

3. Qualifications (Section 3.8 and Exhibit C)

*Authorized signature required

3.2 BID REQUIREMENTS AND GUIDELINES

Bids must comply with the requirements or restrictions listed below. Failure to do so may result in the disqualification of the Bidder’s Bid:

1. State the Bidder’s full legal name on the first or cover page of the Bid.

2. Bids must provide information in the same order as presented in this RFQ and with the same headings. Title and number each item in the same way it appears in the RFQ. Each question must be restated prior to the Bidder’s response.

3. All items listed in Section 3.1 (BID CONTENTS OVERVIEW) must be included as part of the Bid for the Bid to be considered responsive; however, only the following items will be scored during the evaluation process: Executive Order 18-03 Worker’s Rights, Qualifications.

4. Bidders are liable for all errors or omissions contained in their Bids. Bidders will not be allowed to alter Bid documents after the deadline for Bid submission. HCA is not liable for any errors in Bids.

HCA is under no obligation to consider any supplemental materials submitted that were not requested.

HCA RFQ No. 2026HCA5 Page 17 of 29

3.3 BIDDER PROFILE & SUBMITTAL FORM (MANDATORY)

Exhibit A, Bidder Forms and…