PAGE 1 OF 1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. UEI: EFT:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

36C25626Q0425 03-18-2026

Karen Battie 318-990-5960 03-23-2026 2:00pm CDT

36C256

Department of Veterans Affairs

Network Contracting Office 16

400 Veterans Ave

Biloxi MS 39531-2410

X

621511

$41.5 Million

N/A

X

36C629

Department of Veterans Affairs

New Orleans VAMC

2400 Canal Street

New Orleans LA 70119

36C256

Department of Veterans Affairs

Network Contracting Office 16

1800 Buckner Street

Shreveport LA 71101

FSC e-Invoice Payment http://www.fsc.va.gov/fsc/einvoice.asp

Invoice Setup Information 1-877-489-6135 invoice must be submitted electronically

1-877-489-6135

See CONTINUATION Page

This solicitation is a Request for Quote (RFQ) for

Anatomical Autopsy Services- New Orleans VAMC in New Orleans,LA See Performance Work Statement.

This Solicitation is Unrestricted Full and Open Market.

NOTIFICATION TO OFFERORS: Required documents and instruction are on listed in - INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS.

See CONTINUATION Page

X

X 1(one)

Melanie Hawley

VA VHA 2020 AC3434AE75

36C25626Q0425

Table of Contents

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

B.3 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2023)

C.2 52.252-6 AUTHORIZED DEVIATIONS IN CLAUSES (NOV 2020)

C.3 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.4 52.232-33 PAYMENT BY ELECTRONIC FUNDS TRANSFER—SYSTEM FOR

AWARD MANAGEMENT (OCT 2018)

C.5 52.216-18 ORDERING (AUG 2020)

C.6 52.216-19 ORDER LIMITATIONS (OCT 1995)

C.7 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

C.8 52.240-91 SECURITY PROHIBITIONS AND EXCLUSIONS (NOV 2025)

(DEVIATION) ALTERNATE I (NOV 2025)

C.9 VAAR 852.201-70 CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (DEC 2022)

C.10 VAAR 852.203-70 COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING (MAY 2018)

C.11 VAAR 852.211-76 LIQUIDATED DAMAGES – REIMBURSEMENT FOR DATA

BREACH COSTS (FEB 2023) ALTERNATE I (FEB 2023)

C.12 VAAR 852.215-70 SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED AND VETERAN-

OWNED SMALL BUSINESS EVALUATION FACTORS (OCT 2019)

C.13 VAAR 852.215-71 EVALUATION FACTOR COMMITMENTS (OCT 2019)

C.14 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV

2018)

C.15 VAAR 852.237-70 INDEMNIFICATION AND MEDICAL LIABILITY INSURANCE

(OCT 2019)

C.16 VAAR 852.237-74 NON-DISCRIMINATION IN SERVICE DELIVERY (OCT 2019) .. 56

C.17 VAAR 852.237-75 KEY PERSONNEL (OCT 2019)

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023)

E.2 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

E.3 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

E.4 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

E.5 VAAR 852.209-70 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST (OCT 2020)

E.6 VAAR 852.233-70 PROTEST CONTENT/ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

(OCT 2018)

E.7 VAAR 852.233-71 ALTERNATE PROTEST PROCEDURE (OCT 2018)

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

Authorized person to sign:

Title:

Phone #:

E-mail:

Billing/Invoicing Contact Person: Phone #:

E-Mail:

Tax ID No.

SAM UEI:

b. GOVERNMENT:

Melanie Hawley, Contracting Officer (NCO16) Department of Veterans Affairs 400 Veterans Ave Biloxi, MS 39531-2410

E-Mail: Melanie.Hawley@va.gov Phone:

228-523-4394

Karen Battie, Contract Specialist (NCO16) Department of Veterans Affairs 1800 Buckner Street Shreveport, LA 71101 Email: Karen.Battie@va.gov

Contracting Officer Representative:

Will be designated and provided at time of award

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

[X] 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System For Award Management, or

[] 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

a. Quarterly []

b. Semi-Annually []

c. Other [X] Monthly

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment

Requests.

mailto:Melanie.Hawley@va.gov mailto:Karen.Battie@va.gov

Department of Veterans Affairs

FSC

PO Box 149971 Austin, TX 78714-8971

SECURE FAX: Please review VA Handbook 6500 that requires the following statement on all fax cover sheets be included:

“This fax is intended only for the use of the person or office to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential, or protected by law. All others are hereby notified that the receipt of this fax does not waive any applicable privilege or exemption for disclosure and that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is prohibited. If you have received this fax in error, please notify this office immediately at the telephone number listed above.

5. Federal Acquisition Regulations require all contractors (to include Joint Ventures) conducting business with the Government be registered in the System Awards Management System (SAM) online database for the provision of basic information relative to contract awards (see FAR Clause 52.212-4(t)). This may be accomplished at http://www.sam.gov. It is the responsibility of the contractor to renew this registration annually. Offerors are requested to ensure this information is the same as their W-9 filed by the contractor to the Internal Revenue System (IRS).

System updates may lag policy updates. The System for Award Management (SAM) may continue to require entities to complete representations based on provisions that are not included in agency solicitations. Examples include 52.222-25, Affirmative Action Compliance, and paragraph (d) of 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications—Commercial Products and Commercial Services. Contracting officers will not consider these representations when making award decisions or enforce requirements. Entities are not required to, nor are they able to, update their entity registration to remove these representations in SAM.

The resultant contract is a nonpersonal services contract in accordance with FAR 37.401.

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

Contractor is required to provide Anatomical Autopsy services, in accordance with the terms and conditions stated herein and at the pricing stated below for the period of performance included below:

Contract Guaranteed Minimum and Contract Maximum

The fixed-price indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract will have a one(1) year period of performance with NO option years (FAR 52.217-8 is included). All quantities are estimated. The total guaranteed minimum quantity of services that the Government will acquire under this indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract is $50.00, which also represents a bona fide need of the current fiscal year. The guaranteed minimum award amount is for the entire contract duration. The ceiling amount for the entire contract effort is $50,000.00.

Ordering Procedures:

Task orders within scope of the IDIQ contract will be issued unilaterally in accordance with the IDIQ Contract terms and conditions and bilaterally when change in terms and conditions is negotiated in accordance with contract clauses FAR 52.212-4 (c), FAR 52.216-18, FAR 52.216- 19 and FAR 52.216-22.

FAR 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services allows the CO to obtain additional services within the limits and at the rates specified in the contract for a period up to six months if the award of a follow-on contract is delayed due to circumstances beyond the control of the CO. Examples of circumstances causing such delays are bid protests and alleged mistakes in bid.

Note: when FAR clause 52.217-8 is included in the solicitation and the contract is for services only, evaluate the six-month extension as part of the Government’s initial evaluation. The contract rates may be adjusted only because of revisions to prevailing labor rates provided by the Secretary of Labor or those published rate changes utilized to price the contract. The CO may exercise the option provision more than once, but the total extension of performance hereunder should not exceed 6 months. The CO may exercise the option by written notice to the

Contractor within the period specified in the contract. Below is an example of the provision tailored by OGC to include the evaluation of FAR 52.217-8: “Evaluations of options”.

For purposes of award of this Contract, the Government intends to evaluate the option to extend services under FAR 52.217-8 as follows: The evaluation will consider the possibility that the option can be exercised at any time and can be exercised in increments of one to six months, but not for more than a total of six months during the life of the contract. The evaluation will assume that the prices for any option exercised under FAR 52.217-8 will be those rates in effect under the contract each time an option is exercised under this clause. The evaluation will therefore assume that the addition of the price or prices of any possible extension or extensions under FAR 52.217-8 to the total price for the basic requirement and the total price for the priced options has the same effect on the total price of all proposals relative to each other, and will not affect the ranking of proposals based on price, unless, after reviewing the proposals, the Government determines that there is a basis for finding otherwise. This evaluation will not obligate the Government to exercise any option under.

NOTE: Pricing from last order will apply to any extensions pursuant to FAR 52.217-8.

https://www.acquisition.gov/far/part-52#FAR_52_217_8

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE

ESTIMATED

AMOUNT

2.00 HR $_________ $__________

Full autopsy incl brain

Ordering Period: Base

POP Begin: from date of award POP End: 12 months from date of award

NAICS Code: 621511- Medical Laboratories PSC Code: Q515- Medical- Pathology

2.00 HR $__________ $___________

Full autopsy excl brain

Ordering Period: Base

POP Begin: from date of award POP End: 12 months from date of award

NAICS CODE: 621511- Medical Laboratories PSC CODE: Q515- Medical Pathology

1.00 HR $__________ $____________

Brain only

Ordering Period: Base

POP Begin: from date of award POP End: 12 months from date of award

1.00 HR $__________ $_____________

Chest only

Ordering Period: Base

POP Begin: from date of award POP End: 12 months from date of award

PSC CODE: Q515-Medical Pathology

1.00 HR $__________ $______________

Abdomen only

Ordering Period: Base

POP Begin: from date of award

POP End: 12 months from date of award

2.00 HR $__________ $_____________

Ancillary tests

Ordering Period: Base

POP Begin: from date of award POP End: 12 months from date of award

ESTIMATED

GRAND

TOTAL

B.2 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

GENERAL: This is a non-personnel services contract to provide Autopsy Services. The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein. Such contract service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn is responsible to the Government.

1.1. Services Provided: The Contractor shall provide accredited Pathology Physician

Services off-site for the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Southeast Louisiana Veteran Health Care System (hereinafter referred to as VAMC) located at 2400 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70119, to perform anatomical autopsy services in accordance with the specifications contained herein to beneficiaries of the VAMC. All physician(s) shall be accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP), the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) or an equivalent agency.

All services provided by the Contractor shall meet or exceed all applicable standards of The Joint Commission (JC).

1.2. Place of Performance: Services shall be provided off site at the Contractor’s location.

1.3. Period of Performance: This contract is 1 year.

1.4. Authority: Title 38 United States Code (U.S.C.) § 8153 – Sharing of Health Care

Resources (HCR).

1.5. Policy/Handbooks: The Contractor shall be subject to the following policies, including any subsequent updates during the period of performance.

1.5.1. VA Directive 1663: Health Care Resources Contracting- Buying-http://www1.va.gov/vapubs/viewPublication.asp?Pub_ID=347

1.5.2. VHA Handbook 1100.17: National Practitioner Data Bank Reports-http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=2135

1.5.3. VHA Handbook 1100.18: Reporting And Responding To State Licensing Boards-http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1364

1.5.4. VHA Handbook 1400.05: Disbursement Agreements Procedures-http://www.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1769

1.5.5. VHA Handbook 1907.01: Health Information Management and Health Records-http://www.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=3025

1.5.6. Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. § 552a) as amended -

http://www.justice.gov/oip/foia_updates/Vol_XVII_4/page2.htm

1.6. Definitions/Acronyms: Terms used in this contract shall be interpreted as follows unless the context expressly requires a different construction and/or interpretation. In case of a conflict in language between the definitions and other sections of this contract, the language in this section shall govern.

1.6.1. ABP: American Board of Pathology

1.6.2. ACS: Administrative Contract Specialist. Contract Specialist who administers the contract.

http://www1.va.gov/vapubs/viewPublication.asp?Pub_ID=347 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=2135 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1364 http://www.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1769 http://www.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=3025 http://www.justice.gov/oip/foia_updates/Vol_XVII_4/page2.htm

1.6.3. AOD: Admitting Officer of the Day

1.6.4. CAP: College of American Pathology

1.6.5. CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

1.6.6. CDR: Contract Discrepancy Report

1.6.7. CEU: Certified Education Unit

1.6.8. CLIA: Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments

1.6.9. CME: Continuing Medical Education

1.6.10. CMS: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

1.6.11. CO: Contracting Officer. The person executing this contract on behalf of the

Government with the authority to enter and administer contracts and make related determinations and findings.

1.6.12. COR: Contracting Officer Representative. A person appointed by the CO to take necessary action to ensure the Contractor performs in accordance with and adheres to the specifications contained in the contract and to protect the interest of the Government. The COR shall report to the CO promptly any indication of non-compliance in order that appropriate action can be taken.

1.6.13. Contractor: a person or entity that enters a contract. Includes contract physician(s).

1.6.14. COS: Chief of Staff

1.6.15. CPARS: Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System

1.6.16. CS or ACS: Administrative Contract Specialist. Contract Specialist who administers the contract.

1.6.17. SLVHCS: Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System. For purposes of this contract, this term shall mean Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC).

1.6.18. FAR: Federal Acquisitions Regulations.

1.6.19. FSMB: Federation of State Medical Boards

1.6.20. HHS: Department of Health and Human Services

1.6.21. HICPAC: Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee

1.6.22. HIPAA: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

1.6.23. ISO: Information Security Officer

1.6.24. JC: Joint Commission

1.6.25. MOD: Medical Officer of the Day

1.6.26. NAME: National Association of Medical Examiners

1.6.27. NPI: National Provider Identifier is a standard, unique ten (10) digit numeric identifier required by HIPAA. The Veterans Health Administration must use NPIs in all HIPAA-standard electronic transactions for individual (health care practitioners) and organizational entities (medical centers).

1.6.28. NPPES: National Plan and Provider Enumeration System

1.6.29. POP: Period of Performance

1.6.30. PWS: Performance Work Statement

1.6.31. QASP: Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

1.6.32. VA: Department of Veterans Affairs

1.6.33. VAMC: Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center. Unless identified with the name of a different VAMC, for purposes of this contract, this term shall mean the SLVHCS.

1.6.34. VHA Veterans Health Administration. The central office for administration of the

VAMC throughout the United States. The VHA is in Washington, D.C.

1.6.35. VISN: Veterans Integrated Services Network. The regional oversight for the

VAMC.

2. SCOPE:

2.1.1. Contractor shall be responsible for providing either a partial or full autopsy (as indicated on the Authorization for Autopsy form), including standard gross and microscopic samplings, photography, neuropathology, and toxicology on cadavers prepared for transportation to the Contractor’s facility. Cadavers shall be transported from the VAMC to the Contractor’s location by the Contractor.

2.1.1.1. Contractor shall not accept a cadaver without copies of appropriate medical records prepared by the VAMC and a signed, legal, and complete autopsy permit. The VA shall be responsible for the delivery of the cadaver to the

Contractor’s location. Upon receipt at the Contractor’s location, the cadaver shall be logged in as received at the location. The medical records shall be kept with the cadaver in a locked crypt. When the body is removed from the locked crypt, the medical records shall be provided to the physician(s) performing the autopsy. Following the autopsy, the medical records shall be locked in a secured location for review. Upon the physician(s) completion of the medical records review, the physician(s) shall submit the medical records to the contractor’s Records Supervisor or designee who will shred the documents.

2.1.1.1.1. Prior to the Contractor making transportation arrangements for the cadaver from the VAMC to their facility, a primary investigator

(Contractor) shall call the VAMC physician to discuss the need for the autopsy and/or any restrictions/limitations placed on the autopsy.

2.1.1.2. In the event that the Physician(s) determine a more extensive autopsy should be conducted (special cases requiring unusual toxicology, extensive immunohistochemistry, molecular analysis, or extensive post-mortem radiography, SLVHCS Pathology must be notified and approve the procedures. Prisoner of War (POW) autopsy protocols shall require additional slides and blocks (including wet tissue). The P&LMS physician staff at the VAMC shall determine if the patient was a POW and shall communicate this information to Contractor. All pathological material from

POW’s shall be examined and reported in the customary manner. A duplicate set of slides, blocks, and representative wet tissue must be submitted to P&LMS for submission to the Joint Pathology Center. This duplicate set, via FedEx, UPS, or courier, must be submitted as soon as possible, but no later than ten (10) days after completion of the final report and/or conference presentation, if applicable.

2.1.1.3. Physician(s) shall provide the VAMC with preliminary anatomical diagnosis within one (1) business day for a partial autopsy. A full autopsy report shall be provided within twenty-five (25) working days. Copies of these reports which shall include the Final Anatomical Diagnosis (FAD) shall be faxed to

(504) 507-2012 as soon as they are available. Originals shall be mailed to the VAMC at: Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Service (P&LMS), 2400

Canal Street, Room 4F139, Attn: Anatomic Pathology Supervisor or

Pathologist, New Orleans, Louisiana 70119

2.1.1.4. Following completion of an autopsy, the contractor shall notify SLVHCS

Pathology (800-935-8387 ext. 63317 or 63325) during regular business hours, Monday-Friday, 7:30AM to 4:00PM, so that the corresponding transportation arrangements can be made for transfer of the body back to

SLVHCS. After business hours, the Contractor shall contact the

Administrator on Duty (AOD) by calling the VAMC operator at (504)507-

2000.

2.1.1.5. Upon mutual agreement of both the VAMC and the Contractor, the

Contractor shall present autopsy findings at clinical conferences when provided with at least ten (10) calendar days of advance notice by the

VAMC.

2.1.1.6. Per CAP requirements, a Clinicopathological correlation will be included in all reports.

3. QUALIFICATIONS

3.1. Staff/Facility:

3.1.1. License: Physician(s) assigned by the Contractor to perform the services covered by this contract shall have a current license to practice medicine in any State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States or the District of Columbia. All licenses held by the personnel working on this contract shall be full and unrestricted licenses. Physician(s) who have current, full and unrestricted licenses in one or more states, but who have, or ever had, a license restricted, suspended, revoked, voluntarily revoked, voluntarily surrendered pending action or denied upon application will not be considered for the purposes of this contract.

3.1.2. Board Certification: All physician(s) shall be American Board of Pathology board certified/board eligible in Anatomic Pathology, Anatomic & Clinical Pathology or

Forensic Pathology. All continuing education courses required for maintaining certification must be always kept up to date. Documentation verifying current certification shall be provided by the Contractor to the VAMC COR upon request.

3.1.3. Technical Proficiency: Physician(s) shall be technically proficient in the skills necessary to fulfill the government’s requirements, including the ability to speak, understand, read and write English fluently. Contractor shall provide documents upon request of the CO to verify current and ongoing competency, skills, certification and/or licensure related to the provision of care, treatment and/or services performed. Contractor shall provide verifiable evidence of all educational and training experiences including any gaps in educational history for all physician(s).

3.1.4. Continuing Medical Education (CME)/ Certified Education Unit (CEU)

Requirements: Contractor shall provide the COR copies of current CMEs as required or requested by the VAMC. Physician(s) registered or certified by national/medical associations shall continue to meet the minimum standards for

CME to remain current.

3.1.5. National Provider Identifier (NPI): NPI is a standard, unique ten (10) digit numeric identifier required by HIPAA. The VHA must use NPIs in all HIPAA-standard electronic transactions for individual (health care practitioners) and organizational entities (medical centers). The Contractor shall have or obtain appropriate NPI and if pertinent the Taxonomy Code confirmation notice issued by the Centers for

Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) National Plan and Provider Enumeration

System (NPPES) and provide these to the CO with the proposal.

3.1.6. Conflict of Interest: The Contractor and all physician(s) shall identify and communicate to the CO and COR conflicts of interest that exist at the time of proposal and during the entirety of contract performance. At the time of proposal, the Contractor shall provide a statement which describes, in a concise manner, all relevant facts concerning any past, present, or currently planned interest (financial, contractual, organizational, or otherwise) or actual or potential organizational conflicts of interest relating to the services to be provided. The Contractor shall also provide statements containing the same information for any identified consultants who shall provide services. The Contractor must also provide relevant facts that show how it’s organizational and/or management system or other actions would avoid or mitigate any actual or potential organizational conflicts of interest.

These statements shall be in response to the VAAR provision 852.209-70

Organizational Conflicts of Interest (Jan 2008).

3.1.7. Citizenship Related Requirements:

3.1.7.1. The Contractor certifies that the physician(s) shall comply with any and all legal provisions contained in the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, As

Amended; its related laws and regulations that are enforced by Homeland

Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S Department of

Labor as these may relate to non-immigrant foreign nationals working under contract or subcontract for the Contractor while providing services to VAMC.

3.1.7.2. While performing services for the VAMC, the Contractor shall not knowingly employ or contract with an illegal alien; foreign national non-immigrant who is in violation of their status, because of their failure to maintain or comply with the terms and conditions of their admission into the United States.

Additionally, the Contractor shall comply with all “E-Verify” requirements consistent with “Executive Order 12989” and any related pertinent

Amendments.

3.1.7.3. If the Contractor fails to comply with any requirements outlined in the preceding paragraphs, the VAMC may, at its discretion, require that foreign nationals who failed to maintain their legal status in the United States or otherwise failed to comply with the requirements of the laws administered by

Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S

Department of Labor, stop performing services under this contract. Failure to comply with paragraph 2.1.10. and its subparagraphs shall form the basis for termination of this contract breach.

3.1.7.4. This certification concerns a matter within the jurisdiction of an agency of the

United States and the making of a false, fictitious, or fraudulent certification may render the maker subject to prosecution under 18 U.S.C. § 1001.

3.1.8. Annual Office of Inspector General (OIG) Statement: In accordance with HIPAA and the Balanced Budget Act (BBA) of 1977, the HHS Office of Inspector General

(OIG) has established a list of parties and entities excluded from Federal health care programs. Specifically, the listed parties and entities may not receive Federal

Health Care program payments due to fraud and/or abuse of the Medicare and

Medicaid programs.

3.1.8.1. Therefore, Contractor shall review the HHS OIG List of Excluded

Individuals/Entities on the HHS OIG web site at http://oig.hhs.gov/exclusions/index.asp and shall not provide physician(s) named on that list. Contractor should note that any excluded individual or entity that submits a claim for reimbursement to a Federal health care program, or causes such a claim to be submitted, may be subject to a Civil

Monetary Penalty (CMP) for each item or service furnished during a period that the person was excluded and may also be subject to treble damages for the amount claimed for each item or service. CMP’s may also be imposed against the Contractor that employs or enters contracts with excluded individuals to provide items or services to Federal program beneficiaries.

http://oig.hhs.gov/exclusions/index.asp

3.1.8.2. By submitting their proposal, the Contractor certifies that the HHS OIG List of

Excluded Individuals/Entities has been reviewed and that the Contractor and its proposed contract physician(s) are not listed as of the date the offer/bid was signed.

4. HOURS OF OPERATION

4.1. VAMC Business Hours: The normal business hours for the VAMC are 07300 to 1600

Monday through Friday excluding federal holidays.

4.2. Federal Holidays: The following holidays are observed by the VHA:

• New Year’s Day

• Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday

• Washington’s Birthday

• Memorial Day

• Juneteenth

• Independence Day

• Labor Day

• Columbus Day

• Veterans Day

• Thanksgiving Day

• Christmas Day

• Any day specifically declared by the President of the United States to be a national holiday.

5. CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1. Clinical Personnel Required: The Contractor shall provide physician(s) who are competent, qualified per this PWS and adequately trained to perform assigned duties.

5.1.1. Contractor shall ensure that board certified/board eligible pathologists provide the final written diagnosis for gross and microscopic post-mortem examination findings. If a resident/fellow signs the autopsy report, a licensed pathologist who meets the identified criteria shall countersign it. (See 3.1.2 for board certification requirements)

5.1.1.1. The Contractor shall ensure that the physician(s) close all autopsy cases within the timeframe defined by the National Association of Medical

Examiners. The COR shall be responsible for verifying contract compliance. After contract award, any incidents of Contractor noncompliance as evidenced by the monitoring procedures shall be forwarded immediately to the CO.

5.1.1.2. All sections of the autopsy report shall be finalized before the autopsy can be closed. This includes when the brain is included as part of the autopsy.

5.1.2. Contractor shall provide adequate space for storage of all materials associated with the VAMC’s autopsy cases. The storage locations shall be locked and dry.

5.1.2.1. Rotation requirement shall follow VHA directive 1106.01 or subsequent successive directive.

5.1.2.2. Contractor shall pull materials from storage, when necessary, for additional sectioning/review for any clinically appropriate purpose, including but not limited to, quality assurance review and teaching purposes.

5.2. Standards of Care: The physician(s) care shall cover the range of Pathology Services as would be provided in a state-of-the-art civilian medical treatment facility and the standard of care shall be of a quality, meeting or exceedingly currently recognized national standards as established by:

5.2.1. VA Standards: VHA Directive 2006-041 “Veterans’ Health Care Service

Standards” (expired but still in effect pending revision) https://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1443

5.2.2. The professional standards of The Joint Commission (TJC) http://www.jointcommission.org/standards_information/hap_requirements.aspx

5.2.3. The standards of the American Hospital Association (AHA) http://www.hpoe.org/resources?show=100&type=8 and;

5.2.4. The requirements contained in this PWS.

5.3. MEDICAL RECORDS

5.3.1. Authorities: Physician(s) providing healthcare services to the VAMC patients shall be considered as part of the Department Healthcare Activity. Contractor shall ensure its physician(s) comply with the 47 U.S.C. § 551(a) (Protection of

Subscriber Privacy), 38 U.S.C. § 5701 (Confidential Nature of Claims), 5 U.S.C. §

552 (Freedom of Information Act), 38 U.S.C. § 5705 (Confidentiality of Medical

Quality Assurance Records) 38 U.S.C. § 7332 (Confidentiality of Certain Medical

Records), Title 5 U.S.C. § 522a (Records Maintained on Individuals) as well as 45

C.F.R. Parts 160, 162 and 164 (HIPAA).

5.3.2. HIPAA: Treatment and administrative patient records generated by this contract are provided to the Contractors by the VAMC and are covered by the VA system of records entitled ‘Patient Medical Records-VA’ (24VA19). Contractor generated VA patient records are the property of the VA and shall not be accessed, released, transferred, or destroyed except in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Contractor shall ensure that all records pertaining to medical care and services that are in its possession are available for immediate transmission when requested by the VA. Records identified for review, audit, or evaluation by VA representatives and authorized federal and state officials, shall be accessed on-site during normal business hours or mailed by the Contractor at his expense.

https://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1443 http://www.jointcommission.org/standards_information/hap_requirements.aspx http://www.hpoe.org/resources?show=100&type=8

Contractor shall deliver all final patient records, correspondence, and notes to the

VA within twenty-one (21) calendar days after the contract expiration date.

5.3.3. Disclosure: Physician(s) may have access to patient medical records; however, the Contractor shall obtain permission from the VAMC before disclosing any patient information. Subject to applicable federal confidentiality or privacy laws, the

Contractor, or its designated representatives, and designated representatives of federal regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over Contractor, may have access to the VAMC records, at the place of business on request during normal business hours, to inspect and review and make copies of such records. The VAMC will provide the Contractor with a copy of VHA Handbook 1907.1, Health Information

Management and Health Records and VHA Handbook 1605.1, Privacy and

Release of Information. The penalties and liabilities for the unauthorized disclosure of VA patient information mandated by the statutes and regulations listed in paragraph 4.4.1 apply to the Contractor.

5.3.4. Professional Standards for Documenting Care: Contractor shall ensure that medical care provided under this contract is appropriately documented in medical records in accordance with standard commercial practice and in accordance with guidelines established by VHA Handbook 1907.01

Health Information Management and Health Records:

http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=2791, as well as all guidelines provided by the VAMC.

5.3.5. Release of Information: The VAMC shall maintain control of releasing any patient medical information and will follow policies and standards as defined, but not limited to Privacy Act requirements. In the case of the VAMC authorizing the

Contractor to release patient information, the Contractor in compliance with the

VAMC regulations, and at its own expense, shall use VA Form 3288, Request for and Consent to Release of Information from Individual’s Records, to process

“Release of Information Requests.” In addition, the Contractor shall be responsible for locating and forwarding records not kept at their facility. The VA’s

Release of Information Section shall provide the Contractor with assistance in completing forms. Additionally, the Contractor shall use VA Form 10-5345, Request for and Authorization to Release Medical Records or Health Information, when releasing records protected by 38 U.S.C. § 7332. Treatment and release records shall include the patient’s consent form. Completed Release of Information requests will be forwarded to the VAMC Anatomic Pathology Supervisor, 504-507-

63314 or 63317.

5.3.6. Direct Patient Care: No direct patient care. Services involve postmortem examination and diagnostic activities.

5.3.6.1. Contractor shall ensure that autopsy equipment is maintained in good working order and in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.

5.4. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, QUALITY ASSURANCE (QA) AND QUALITY

IMPROVEMENT(QI)

http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1469 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1469 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/viewpublication.asp?pub_id=1423 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/viewpublication.asp?pub_id=1423 http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=2791 http://www4.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA3288.pdf http://www4.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA3288.pdf http://www4.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-5345-fill.pdf http://www4.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/vha-10-5345-fill.pdf

5.4.1. Quality Management/Quality Assurance Surveillance: Contractor personnel shall be subject to Quality Management measures. Contractor performance shall be monitored by the government using the standards as outlined in this PWS and methods of surveillance detailed in the QASP. The QASP shall be attached to the resultant contract and shall define the methods and frequency of surveillance conducted. A Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) from the Contractor is required. The

QAP shall describe the strategy and methods the Contractor will deploy to ensure that the items identified in the QASP are met.

5.4.2. Complaints: The CO will resolve complaints concerning Contractor relations with the Government employees or patients. The CO is final authority on validating complaints. If the Contractor is involved and named in a validated patient complaint, the Government reserves the right to refuse acceptance of the services of such Contractor personnel involved in the complaint. This does not preclude refusal in the event of incidents involving physical or verbal abuse.

5.4.3. Performance Standards:

5.4.3.1. Measure: Timeliness of Autopsy Reports

Performance Requirement: Exams read in timely fashion, interpretation signed and faxed to VAMC Pathology & Laboratory Service.

Standard: Preliminary autopsy diagnosis must be read within twenty-four

(24) hours of exam completion. Final autopsy diagnosis must be provided within 30 days of exam completion.

Acceptable Quality Level: 90% of above standard read during the month.

Surveillance Method: Direct Observation and Validated User/Customer

Complaints

Frequency: Monthly

Incentive: Positive Evaluation of Contractor’s Performance

Disincentive: Unfavorable Evaluation of Contractor’s Performance and a

Letter of Concerns shall be issued to the Contractor.

5.4.3.2. Measure: Maintains Patient Privacy Confidentiality/Adheres to all HIPPA requirements

Performance Requirement: Compliance with HIPAA, Privacy and

Confidentiality laws.

Standard: Zero breaches of privacy and/or HIPAA requirements.

Acceptable Quality Level: 100% compliance of standard, no deviations.

Surveillance Method: Validated User/Customer Complaints

Frequency: Quarterly

Incentive: Positive Evaluation of Contractor’s Performance

Disincentive: Unfavorable Evaluation of Contractor’s Performance. Removal from contract.

5.4.3.3. Measure: Maintains Appropriate Qualifications and licensure/certifications requirements

Performance Requirement: All physician(s) shall be board certified in accordance with ABP Standards and perform within their individual scopes of practice/privileging.

Standard: Mandatory prior to performance of duties.

Acceptable Quality Level: 100% compliance of standard, no deviations.

Surveillance Method: Periodic Sampling

Frequency: Yearly

Incentive: Positive Evaluation of Contractor’s Performance

Disincentive: Unfavorable Evaluation of Contractor’s performance. Removal from contract.

5.4.4. Registration with CPARS

5.4.4.1. As prescribed in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 42.15, the

VAMC evaluates Contractor past performance on all contracts that exceed one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000.00) and shares those evaluations with other Federal Government contract specialists and procurement officials. The FAR requires that the Contractor be provided an opportunity to comment on past performance evaluations prior to each report closing. To fulfill this requirement the VAMC uses an online database, CPARS, which is maintained by the Naval Seal Logistics Center in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. CPARS has connectivity with the Past

Performance Information Retrieval System (PPIRS) database, which is available to all Federal agencies. PPIRS is the system used to collect and retrieve performance assessment reports used in source selection determinations and completed CPARS report cards transferred to PPIRS.

CPARS also includes access to the federconnectal awardee performance and integrity information system (FAPIIS). FAPIIS is a web-enabled application accessed via CPARS for Contractor responsibility determination information.

5.4.4.2. Each Contractor whose contract award is estimated to exceed one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000.00) requires a CPARS evaluation.

A government Focal Point will register your contract within thirty days after contract award and, at that time, you will receive an email message with a

User ID (to be used when reviewing evaluations). Additional information regarding the evaluation process can be found at www.cpars.gov or if you have any questions, you may contact the Customer Support Desk @ DSN:

684-1690 or COMM: 207-438-1690.

5.4.4.3. For contracts with a period of one (1) year or less, the CO will perform a single evaluation when the contract is complete. For contracts exceeding one (1) year, the CO will evaluate the Contractor’s performance annually.

Interim reports will be filed each year until the last year of the contract, when the final report will be completed. The report shall be assigned in

CPARS to the Contractor’s designated representative for comment. The

Contractor representative will have sixty (60) days to submit any comments and re-assign the report to the CO.

5.4.4.4. Failure for the Contractor’s representative to respond to the evaluation within those sixty (60) days, will result in the Government’s evaluation being placed on file in the database with a statement that the Contractor failed to respond; the Contractor’s representative will be “locked out” of the evaluation and may no longer send comments.

6. GOVERNMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

6.1. Contract Administration/Performance Monitoring: After award of contract, all inquiries and correspondence relative to the administration of the contract shall be addressed to:

ACS and the COR.

6.1.1. CO Responsibilities:

6.1.1.1. The CO and ACS are the only people authorized to approve changes or modify any of the requirements of this contract. The Contractor shall communicate with the ACS on all matters pertaining to contract administration. Only the CO or ACS is authorized to make commitments or issue any modification to include (but not limited to) terms affecting price, quantity, or quality of performance of this contract.

6.1.1.2. The ACS shall resolve complaints concerning Contractor relations with the government employees or patients. The CO is final authority on validating complaints. In the event the Contractor effects any such change at the direction of any person other than the ACS without authority, no adjustment shall be made in the contract price to cover an increase in costs incurred as a result thereof.

6.1.1.3. If contracted services do not meet quality and/or safety expectations, the best remedy will be implemented, to include but not limited to a targeted and time limited performance improvement plan; increased monitoring of the contracted services; consultation or training for Contractor personnel to be provided by the VA; replacement of the contract personnel and/or renegotiation of the contract terms or termination of the contract.

http://www.cpars.gov/

6.1.2. COR Responsibilities:

5.2.2.1 The COR shall be the VA official responsible for verifying contract compliance.

5.2.2.2 The COR will be responsible for monitoring the Contractor’s performance against the contract requirements.

5.2.2.3. The COR shall establish and maintain a record keeping system that will record work performed by the Contractor physician(s).

5.2.2.4. The COR will review and certify monthly invoices for payment. If in the event the Contractor fails to provide the services in this contract; payments will be adjusted to compensate the Government for the difference.

6.1.3. VAMC Responsibilities:

6.1.3.1. VAMC shall place the cadaver in sealed body bags and shall mark the outside of the bag with the information, if applicable, pertaining to the possibility of infectious disease (HIV, TB, HEP-C). Cadavers shall be accompanied by autopsy consent, full identification, and medical records.

6.1.3.2. VAMC shall receive the cadaver after completion of autopsy via VAMC arranged transport.

6.1.3.3. VAMC shall provide the Contractor with completed autopsy request form

“OP 113-002 VAMC Authorization for Autopsy” prior to the Contractor being notified of a pending autopsy request. Consent for autopsy is explicit and follows Louisiana state law. VAMC shall follow Louisiana state law. A copy of the beneficiary’s medical record along with the death summary shall be furnished to Contractor. With each referral case, a VAMC physician shall be the primary contact for Contractor. Telephone numbers and pager numbers will be furnished with each case. The P&LMS administration may also be contacted for any additional concerns.

7. SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

7.1. Reports/Deliverables: The Contractor shall comply with all reporting requirements established by the Contract. Contractor shall assure the accuracy and completeness of all reports and other documents as well as the timely submission of each. Contractor shall comply with contract requirements regarding the appropriate reporting formats, instructions, submission timetables and technical assistance as required.

7.1.1. Contractor shall submit the following required documents. If a document is required elsewhere in the PWS and is not listed here, the Contractor shall also provide those documents as specified.

What Submit as Noted Submit To

Copies of all licenses, board certifications, NPI, to include primary source verification of all licensed and certified staff

Upon request COR

Certification that staff list have been compared to OIG list Upon request and upon new hires. COR

Proof of Indemnification and Medical

Liability Insurance Upon request and upon renewals. CO/CS

7.2. Billing:

7.2.1. Invoice Requirements and Supporting Documentation: Contractor shall submit supporting documentation and invoices no later than the twentieth (20) workday of the month after services are rendered. Contractor shall submit subsequent changes or corrections shall be submitted by separate invoice. In addition to information required for submission of a “proper” invoice in accordance with FAR

52.212-4 (g), all invoices must include:

7.2.1.1. Name and Address of Contractor

7.2.1.2. Invoice Date and Invoice Number

7.2.1.3. Contract Number and Purchase/Task Order Number

7.2.1.4. Date of Service

7.2.1.5. Contract physician(s) (Name of Contractor’s employee)

7.2.1.6. Name of beneficiary and last four (4) digits of the Social Security

Number.

7.2.1.7. Itemized statement of services rendered by Current Procedural

Technological (CPT) Code and rate.

7.2.1.8. Total price

7.3. Electronic Invoice Submission Methods: Contractor shall submit payment requests in electronic form. Facsimile, email and scanned documents are not acceptable electronic forms for submission of payment requests.

7.4. Data transmission: Contractor must ensure that the data transmission method and format are through one of the following:

7.4.1. VA’s Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment System – accomplished through the Tungsten Network located at http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp. This http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp is mandatory and the sole method for submitting invoices. Phone: (877) 353-9791

Fax: (512) 460-5540.

7.4.2. A system that conforms to the X12 electronic data interchange (EDI) formats established by the Accredited Standards Center (ASC) chartered by the American

National Standards Institute (ANSI).

7.5. Invoice Requirements: Invoices shall comply with FAR 32.905

7.6. Payment Adjustments/Performance Related Payment Deductions:

7.6.1. Task Orders issued against the contract shall be adjusted in accordance with actual performance at the end of the base period.

7.7. Payments in Full/ No Billing VA Beneficiaries: The Contractor shall accept payment for services rendered under this contract as payment in full. Contractor shall not, under any circumstances, charge VAMC beneficiaries nor their insurance companies for services rendered by the Contractor, even if VAMC does not pay for those services. This provision shall survive the termination of the contract.

7.7.1. To the extent that the veteran desires services which are not a VA benefit or covered under the terms of this contract, the Contractor shall notify the veteran that there will be a charge for such service and…