RWPB RFP 2027-0905_FINAL_APPROVED_071026 1_AOD.pdf

STATE OF CONNECTICUT PROCUREMENT NOTICE

Request for Proposals (RFP)

RFP Log #2027-0905

Connecticut Ryan White Part B Core and Support Services 2027-2030

Issued By:

State of Connecticut

Department of Public Health Monday - July 20, 2026

The Request For Proposal is available in electronic format on the State Contracting Portal by filtering by Organization for Department of Public Health:

or from the Agency's Official Contact:

https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard

Africka S. Hinds, RWPB Director CT Department of Public Health

410 Capitol Avenue - MS #11-APV

860.509.8030 I 860.509.7843

DPH.HIV-RFP@ct.gov

The RFP is also available on the Department's website athttp://www.ct.gov/dph/rfp.

The Bidder's Conference will be held on July 29, 2026, at 10.00 AM

RESPONSES DUE: Monday - August 31, 2026 at 4.00 pm EDT The Department of Public Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

The Department of Public Health reserves the right to reject any submissions or cancel this procurement at any time if deemed in the best interest of the State of Connecticut (State).

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STATE OF CONNECTICUT – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH RYAN WHITE PART B RFP 2027-0905

CT Department of Public Health | Page 1 of 48

Request for Proposals (RFP)

RFP Log #2027-0905

Connecticut Ryan White Part B Core and Support Services 2027-2030

Issued By:

State of Connecticut

Department of Public Health Monday – July 20, 2026

The Request For Proposal is available in electronic format on the State Contracting Portal by filtering by Organization for Department of Public Health: https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard or from the Agency’s Official Contact:

Africka S. Hinds, RWPB Director CT Department of Public Health

410 Capitol Avenue – MS #11-APV

860.509.8030 | 860.509.7843

DPH.HIV-RFP@ct.gov

The RFP is also available on the Department’s website at http://www.ct.gov/dph/rfp.

The Bidder’s Conference will be held on July 29, 2026, at 10.00 AM

RESPONSES DUE: Monday – August 31, 2026 at 4.00 pm EDT The Department of Public Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

The Department of Public Health reserves the right to reject any submissions or cancel this procurement at any time if deemed in the best interest of the State of Connecticut (State).

STATE OF CONNECTICUT PROCUREMENT NOTICE

https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard mailto:DPH.HIV-RFP@ct.gov http://www.ct.gov/dph/rfp

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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STATE OF CONNECTICUT – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH RYAN WHITE PART B RFP DPH 2027-0905

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Section I — GENERAL INFORMATION A. Introduction B. Instructions

Section II — PURPOSE OF RFP AND SCOPE OF SERVICES A. Connecticut Department of Public Health Overview B. Ryan White Part B – Health Care and Support Services Overview C. Background: Connecticut Epidemiological Profile and Data D. Scope of Services Description E. Performance Measures F. Contract Management/Data Reporting

Section III — PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OVERVIEW A. Submission Format Information B. Evaluation of Proposals

Section IV — PROPOSAL SUBMISSION OUTLINE AND REQUIREMENTS A. Cover Sheet B. Table of Contents C. Executive Summary D. Main Proposal Submission Questions E. Attachments F. Declaration of Confidential Information G. Conflict of Interest – Disclosure Statement H. Statement of Assurances

Section V — MANDATORY PROVISIONS A. POS Standard Contract, Parts I and II B. Assurances C. Terms and Conditions D. Rights Reserved to the State E. Statutory and Regulatory Compliance

Section VI — APPENDIX A. Abbreviations / Acronyms / Definitions B. Proposal Checklist C. Statement of Assurances D. SMART Work Plan Template E1. RWPB RFP Budget Template – Core Services E2. RWPB RFP Budget Template – Support Services E3. RWPB RFP Budget Summary – Position Schedule #2a – Staffing Profile Form . . 44 E4. Subcontractor Schedule A Detail E5. Workforce Analysis Form

F. Regional Councils of Governments and Planning Areas . . . 47 G. Expanded Service Option: Service Providers Funded by DPH in the last 5 years . . 48

F. Accessibility Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 . . .

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. INTRODUCTION

a. RFP Name and Number:

Ryan White Part B Core and Support Services I RFP DPH 2027-0905

b. RFP Summary and Purpose: The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH or Agency)

Ryan White Part B (RWPB) Program is requesting proposals from Connecticut community-based organizations, HIV service organizations, Federally Qualified Health Centers, community health centers, local health departments and other eligible health care providers to deliver eight (8) core and seven (7) support services within the nine (9) Connecticut Council of Government (COG) Planning Regions, as referenced in Appendix F, and identified as: Capitol, Greater Bridgeport, Lower CT River Valley, Naugatuck Valley, Northeastern, Northwest Hills, South Central, Southeastern, and Western.

The purpose of this RFP is to identify three organizations to serve as either the 1. Eastern Regional Hub (covering the Capitol, Lower CT River, Northeastern, and Southeastern COG Regions), 2.

Western Regional Hub (Greater Bridgeport-Metro, Naugatuck Valley, Northwest Hills, South Central, and Western COG Regions), or 3. a Statewide Transitional Linkage to Community (TLC) Coordinator for released inmates, to deliver comprehensive Core and Support Services that contribute to access to medical care, retention in care, viral load suppression, eliminate health disparities, and improve the quality of life among low-income individuals with HIV. An anticipated total of $19,500,000.00 is estimated to be available. The Eastern Regional Hub, Western Regional Hub and Statewide service delivery areas are referred to herein as "Regional Planning Areas" or "RPAs."

The responses to this RFP will satisfy the implementation of eight (8) Core Services and seven (7) Support Services in alignment with RWPB standards, specifically PCN 16-02. The identified services prioritize underserved areas and ensure culturally competent, trauma-informed, client-centered care for service outreach and delivery.

c. Commodity Codes. The services that the Department wishes to procure through this RFP are as follows: 85000000-Healthcare Services.

B. INSTRUCTIONS

1.Official Contact. The Agency has designated the individual below as the Official Contact for purposes of this RFP. The Official Contact is the only authorized contact for this procurement and, as such, handles all related communications on behalf of the Agency. Proposers, prospective Proposers, and other interested parties are advised that any communication with any other Agency employee(s) (including appointed officials) or personnel under contract to the Agency about this RFP is strictly prohibited. Proposers or Prospective Proposers who violate this instruction may risk disqualification from further consideration.

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Name: Africka S. Hinds

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Address: Department of Public Health Health Care and Support Services 410 Capitol Avenue, MS # 11APV Hartford, CT 06134-0308

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Phone: 860.509.8030

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E-Mail: DPH.HIV-RFP@ct.gov

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NOTE: Please ensure that email screening software (if used) recognizes and accepts emails from the Official Contact.

2.Registering with the State Contracting Portal. Proposers must register with the State of CT contracting portal at if not already registered.

Proposers shall submit the following information pertaining to this application to this portal (on their supplier profile), which will be checked by the Agency contact.

https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/Registration

▪Secretary of State recognition - Click on the appropriate response.

▪Non-profit status, if applicable.

▪Notification to Bidders, Parts I-V.

▪Campaign Contribution Certification (OPM Ethics Form 1):

PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms.

https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-

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STATE OF CONNECTICUT – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH RYAN WHITE PART B RFP DPH 2027-0905

CT Department of Public Health | Page 3 of 48

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

A. INTRODUCTION

a. RFP Name and Number:

Ryan White Part B Core and Support Services | RFP DPH 2027-0905

b. RFP Summary and Purpose: The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH or Agency) Ryan White Part B (RWPB) Program is requesting proposals from Connecticut community-based organizations, HIV service organizations, Federally Qualified Health Centers, community health centers, local health departments and other eligible health care providers to deliver eight (8) core and seven (7) support services within the nine (9) Connecticut Council of Government (COG) Planning Regions, as referenced in Appendix F, and identified as: Capitol, Greater Bridgeport, Lower CT River Valley, Naugatuck Valley, Northeastern, Northwest Hills, South Central, Southeastern, and Western.

The purpose of this RFP is to identify three organizations to serve as either the 1. Eastern Regional Hub (covering the Capitol, Lower CT River, Northeastern, and Southeastern COG Regions), 2.

Western Regional Hub (Greater Bridgeport-Metro, Naugatuck Valley, Northwest Hills, South Central, and Western COG Regions), or 3. a Statewide Transitional Linkage to Community (TLC) Coordinator for released inmates, to deliver comprehensive Core and Support Services that contribute to access to medical care, retention in care, viral load suppression, eliminate health disparities, and improve the quality of life among low-income individuals with HIV. An anticipated total of $19,500,000.00 is estimated to be available. The Eastern Regional Hub, Western Regional Hub and Statewide service delivery areas are referred to herein as “Regional Planning Areas” or “RPAs.”

The responses to this RFP will satisfy the implementation of eight (8) Core Services and seven (7) Support Services in alignment with RWPB standards, specifically PCN 16-02. The identified services prioritize underserved areas and ensure culturally competent, trauma-informed, client-centered care for service outreach and delivery.

c. Commodity Codes. The services that the Department wishes to procure through this RFP are as follows: 85000000-Healthcare Services.

B. INSTRUCTIONS

1. Official Contact. The Agency has designated the individual below as the Official Contact for purposes of this RFP. The Official Contact is the only authorized contact for this procurement and, as such, handles all related communications on behalf of the Agency. Proposers, prospective Proposers, and other interested parties are advised that any communication with any other Agency employee(s) (including appointed officials) or personnel under contract to the Agency about this RFP is strictly prohibited. Proposers or Prospective Proposers who violate this instruction may risk disqualification from further consideration.

Name: Africka S. Hinds Address: Department of Public Health

Health Care and Support Services 410 Capitol Avenue, MS # 11APV Hartford, CT 06134-0308

Phone: 860.509.8030 E-Mail: DPH.HIV-RFP@ct.gov

NOTE: Please ensure that email screening software (if used) recognizes and accepts emails from the Official Contact.

2. Registering with the State Contracting Portal. Proposers must register with the State of CT contracting portal at https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/Registration if not already registered.

Proposers shall submit the following information pertaining to this application to this portal (on their supplier profile), which will be checked by the Agency contact.

Secretary of State recognition – Click on the appropriate response.

Non-profit status, if applicable.

Notification to Bidders, Parts I-V.

Campaign Contribution Certification (OPM Ethics Form 1): https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-

PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms.

chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https:/ryanwhite.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/ryanwhite/grants/service-category-pcn-16-02-final.pdf mailto:DPH.HIV-RFP@ct.gov https://portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/Registration https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms https://portal.ct.gov/OPM/Fin-PSA/Forms/Ethics-Forms

3.RFP Information. The RFP, amendments to the RFP, and other information associated with this procurement are available in electronic format from the Official Contact or from the Internet at the following locations:

•Agency's RFP Web Page: ct.gov/dph (request for proposals).

•State Contracting Portal (go to CTsource bid board, filter by Department of Public Health at portal.ct.gov/das/ctsource/bidboard

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It is strongly recommended that any Proposer or Prospective Proposer interested in this procurement check the Bid Board for any solicitation changes. Interested Proposers may receive additional e-mails from CTsource announcing addenda that are posted on the portal. This service is provided as a courtesy to assist in monitoring activities associated with State procurements, including this RFP.

d.Procurement Schedule. See below. Dates after the due date for proposals ("Proposals Due") are non-binding target dates only (*). The Agency may amend the schedule as needed. Any change to non-target dates will be made by means of an amendment to this RFP and will be posted on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, the Agency's RFP Web Page.

•RFP Released: Monday - July 20, 2026 •Optional RFP Conference: Wednesday - July 29, 2026 •Optional Letter of Intent Due: Monday - August 10, 2026 •Q&A Period: July 22 - August 12, 2026 •DPH will collect and respond to questions weekly.

•Proposals Due:

•(*) Proposer Selection:

•(*) Start of Contract:

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Monday - August 31, 2026, at 4.00 pm Friday - November 6, 2026 Thursday - April 1, 2027

5.Contract Awards. The award of any contract pursuant to this RFP is dependent upon the availability of funding to DPH. DPH anticipates the following:

6.Eligibility. Public or private provider organizations (defined as non-state entities that are either for-profit, nonprofit, proprietary corporations, or partnerships legally registered with CT's Secretary of State), local health districts, local health departments, community health centers, FQHCs, and CT State agencies are eligible to submit proposals in response to this RFP. Proposers claiming nonprofit status must provide proof of nonprofit status, such as a copy of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) determination letter. Individuals are ineligible to participate in this procurement.

RFP Released: Monday - July 20, 2026 Optional RFP Conference: Wednesday - July 29, 2026 Optional Letter of Intent Due: Monday - August 10, 2026 Q&A Period: July 22 - August 12, 2026

Questions Received By Will Have Answers By Wednesday - July 22 Wednesday- August 5 Wednesday - July 29 Wednesday- August 12

Total Funding Available

Up to $19,500,000.00 dollars.

Estimated annual amount =$6,500,000.00 dollars:

Fiscal Year 2027: $6,500,000.00 (state funds);

Fiscal Year 2028: $6,500,000.00 (state funds); and Fiscal Year 2029: $6,500,000.00 (state funds).

Number of Awards THREE:

1. Eastern RPA Hub;

2. Western RPA Hub; and

3. Statewide RPA Transitional Linkage to Community Hub

Contract Cost To be negotiated with the successful bidder(s) Contract Term 3 years I April 1, 2027, to March 31, 2030 Funding Source State Funds of $19,500,000.00

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CT Department of Public Health | Page 4 of 48

3. RFP Information. The RFP, amendments to the RFP, and other information associated with this procurement are available in electronic format from the Official Contact or from the Internet at the following locations:

Agency’s RFP Web Page: ct.gov/dph (request for proposals).

State Contracting Portal (go to CTsource bid board, filter by Department of Public Health at portal.ct.gov/das/ctsource/bidboard.

It is strongly recommended that any Proposer or Prospective Proposer interested in this procurement check the Bid Board for any solicitation changes. Interested Proposers may receive additional e-mails from CTsource announcing addenda that are posted on the portal. This service is provided as a courtesy to assist in monitoring activities associated with State procurements, including this RFP.

d. Procurement Schedule. See below. Dates after the due date for proposals (“Proposals Due”) are non-binding target dates only (*). The Agency may amend the schedule as needed. Any change to non-target dates will be made by means of an amendment to this RFP and will be posted on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, the Agency’s RFP Web Page.

RFP Released: Monday – July 20, 2026 Optional RFP Conference: Wednesday – July 29, 2026 Optional Letter of Intent Due: Monday – August 10, 2026 Q&A Period: July 22 – August 12, 2026

DPH will collect and respond to questions weekly.

Questions Received By… Will Have Answers By… Wednesday – July 22 Wednesday– August 5 Wednesday – July 29 Wednesday– August 12

Proposals Due: Monday – August 31, 2026, at 4.00 pm (*) Proposer Selection: Friday – November 6, 2026 (*) Start of Contract: Thursday - April 1, 2027

5. Contract Awards. The award of any contract pursuant to this RFP is dependent upon the availability of funding to DPH. DPH anticipates the following:

Total Funding Available

Up to $19,500,000.00 dollars.

Estimated annual amount =$6,500,000.00 dollars:

Fiscal Year 2027: $6,500,000.00 (state funds);

Fiscal Year 2028: $6,500,000.00 (state funds); and Fiscal Year 2029: $6,500,000.00 (state funds).

Number of Awards THREE:

1. Eastern RPA Hub;

2. Western RPA Hub; and

3. Statewide RPA Transitional Linkage to Community Hub

Contract Cost To be negotiated with the successful bidder(s)

Contract Term 3 years | April 1, 2027, to March 31, 2030 Funding Source State Funds of $19,500,000.00

6. Eligibility. Public or private provider organizations (defined as non-state entities that are either for-profit, nonprofit, proprietary corporations, or partnerships legally registered with CT’s Secretary of State), local health districts, local health departments, community health centers, FQHCs, and CT State agencies are eligible to submit proposals in response to this RFP. Proposers claiming nonprofit status must provide proof of nonprofit status, such as a copy of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) determination letter. Individuals are ineligible to participate in this procurement.

7.Minimum Qualifications of Proposers. To qualify for a contract award, a Proposer must have the following minimum qualifications:

▪Be a public, nonprofit, or private organization properly registered with the CT Secretary of State.

▪Be in good standing with DPH and have no long-standing, significant unresolved issues on current or prior contracts with DPH, as outlined in Appendix c - Statement of Assurances.

▪Be able to provide sufficient staff at the time of award, including managerial and administrative

Support to implement the required operational, research, and evaluation services, including the ability to meet DPH data/technology and report requirements defined in the scope of services description section.

▪Be in sound fiscal health, as determined by documentation of clean opinions in audited financial statements for the last 3 years (or most recent years that are available, for newer organizations);

a recent organizational budget; and the Proposer's most recent statement of financial activities (profit and loss statement).

▪Adhere to generally accepted accounting principles.

▪Be registered with the System of Award Management (SAM) by the time of contract execution.

▪Submit a completed proposal that complies with all requirements specified in the RFP.

▪Proposers must have:

◦Knowledge of the community/area(s) to be served, including any emerging trends, populations, or HIV service needs/gaps.

◦Demonstrated knowledge of HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, and provision of services to underserved or uninsured.

◦Documented ability to execute the proposed plan of service delivery, including accounting and financial reporting systems and sound fiscal stability ◦Sufficient experienced staff, or the ability to hire qualified personnel, and/or subcontract for services, to execute the proposed plan of service delivery.

◦Demonstrated experience managing and subcontracting services ◦Technology and infrastructure to support a DPH approved web-based data collection system, the recommended minimum hardware/software configuration for use in the office is as follows:

▪Software: Proposals closer to the recommended specs will be prioritized. The workstation must use a modern, up-to-date web browser (automatically updated or regularly patched). As of October 2025, acceptable browser choices include:

●Google Chrome - current stable version is 140.x ●Mozilla Firefox - latest release (regular channel) or Extended Support Release (ESR) ●Microsoft Edge - current stable version or automatically updating ●Other Chromium-based browsers that Support recent web standards and security updates ▪PDF Reader that Supports modern PDF features (forms, digital signatures, embedded multimedia as required. One of the following (or equivalent) PDF readers must be installed:

●Adobe Acrobat Reader DC ●Foxit PDF Reader ●Sumatra PDF or another lightweight, standards-compliant PDF viewer ▪The Operating System must be a supported version of Microsoft Windows with all current security updates applied. As of 2025:

●Windows 11 is the actively supported desktop OS, with these minimum hardware requirements:

•1 GHz or faster 64-bit processor with ≥2 cores •≥ 4 GB of RAM •≥ 64 GB of storage •UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability •TPM version 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) •Graphics device compatible with DirectX 12 and WDDM 2.0 driver

▪Hardware Requirements ●Processor: 2.0 GHz (or better) multi-core 64-bit CPU ●Memory (RAM): 8 GB (minimum); 16 GB recommended for better performance ●Storage: 256 GB SSD (or faster NVMe) ●Free disk space: At least 64 GB available for system & data ●Graphics / Video: GPU with support for DirectX 12 and WDDM 2.0 ●Networking: Gigabit Ethernet or Wi-Fi 6/6E (where relevant) ●Display: 1080p (or higher) capable monitor

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STATE OF CONNECTICUT – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH RYAN WHITE PART B RFP DPH 2027-0905

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7. Minimum Qualifications of Proposers. To qualify for a contract award, a Proposer must have the following minimum qualifications:

Be a public, nonprofit, or private organization properly registered with the CT Secretary of State.

Be in good standing with DPH and have no long-standing, significant unresolved issues on current or prior contracts with DPH, as outlined in Appendix C – Statement of Assurances.

Be able to provide sufficient staff at the time of award, including managerial and administrative

Support to implement the required operational, research, and evaluation services, including the ability to meet DPH data/technology and report requirements defined in the scope of services description section.

Be in sound fiscal health, as determined by documentation of clean opinions in audited financial statements for the last 3 years (or most recent years that are available, for newer organizations);

a recent organizational budget; and the Proposer’s most recent statement of financial activities (profit and loss statement).

Adhere to generally accepted accounting principles.

Be registered with the System of Award Management (SAM) by the time of contract execution.

Submit a completed proposal that complies with all requirements specified in the RFP.

Proposers must have:

o Knowledge of the community/area(s) to be served, including any emerging trends, populations, or HIV service needs/gaps.

o Demonstrated knowledge of HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, and provision of services to underserved or uninsured.

o Documented ability to execute the proposed plan of service delivery, including accounting and financial reporting systems and sound fiscal stability o Sufficient experienced staff, or the ability to hire qualified personnel, and/or subcontract for services, to execute the proposed plan of service delivery.

o Demonstrated experience managing and subcontracting services o Technology and infrastructure to support a DPH approved web-based data collection system, the recommended minimum hardware/software configuration for use in the office is as follows:

Software: Proposals closer to the recommended specs will be prioritized. The workstation must use a modern, up-to-date web browser (automatically updated or regularly patched). As of October 2025, acceptable browser choices include:

• Google Chrome — current stable version is 140.x

• Mozilla Firefox — latest release (regular channel) or Extended Support Release (ESR)

• Microsoft Edge — current stable version or automatically updating

• Other Chromium-based browsers that Support recent web standards and security updates

PDF Reader that Supports modern PDF features (forms, digital signatures, embedded multimedia as required. One of the following (or equivalent) PDF readers must be installed:

• Adobe Acrobat Reader DC

• Foxit PDF Reader

• Sumatra PDF or another lightweight, standards-compliant PDF viewer

The Operating System must be a supported version of Microsoft Windows with all current security updates applied. As of 2025:

• Windows 11 is the actively supported desktop OS, with these minimum hardware requirements:

• 1 GHz or faster 64-bit processor with ≥2 cores

• ≥ 4 GB of RAM

• ≥ 64 GB of storage

• UEFI firmware with Secure Boot capability

• TPM version 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module)

• Graphics device compatible with DirectX 12 and WDDM 2.0 driver

Hardware Requirements

• Processor: 2.0 GHz (or better) multi-core 64-bit CPU

• Memory (RAM): 8 GB (minimum); 16 GB recommended for better performance

• Storage: 256 GB SSD (or faster NVMe)

• Free disk space: At least 64 GB available for system & data

• Graphics / Video: GPU with support for DirectX 12 and WDDM 2.0

• Networking: Gigabit Ethernet or Wi-Fi 6/6E (where relevant)

• Display: 1080p (or higher) capable monitor https://sam.gov/SAM/

8.Letter of Intent. A Letter of Intent (LOI) is not required by this RFP but is highly encouraged. The LOI is non-binding and does not obligate the sender to submit a proposal. The LOI must be submitted to the Official Contact by e-mail by the deadline established in the Procurement Schedule. The LOI must clearly identify the sender, including name, postal address, telephone number, and e-mail address. It is the sender's responsibility to confirm the DPH's receipt of the

LOI.

9.Inquiry Procedures. All questions regarding this RFP or the Agency's procurement process must be directed, in writing, electronically (email) to the Official Contact before the deadline specified in the Procurement Schedule. The early submission of questions is encouraged. Questions will not be accepted or answered verbally - neither in person nor over the telephone. All questions related to this RFP and the procurement process received before the deadline(s) will be answered by self-identified Proposers. However, the Agency will not answer questions when the source is unknown (i.e., nuisance or anonymous questions). At its discretion, the Agency may or may not respond to questions received after the deadline. The Agency may combine similar questions and give only one answer. All questions and answers will be compiled into a written amendment to this RFP. If any answer to any question constitutes a material change to the RFP, the question and answer will be placed at the beginning of the amendment and duly noted as such.

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The agency will release the answers to questions on the date(s) established in the Procurement Schedule. The Agency will publish any and all amendments to this RFP on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, on the Agency's RFP Web Page. At its discretion, the Agency may distribute any amendments to this RFP to Prospective Proposers who submitted a Letter of Intent or attended the RFP Conference.

10.RFP Conference. A virtual RFP Bidder's Conference will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00 am EST to answer questions from Prospective Proposers. Attendance at the conference is optional but highly encouraged. DPH will publish conference material on its website following the conclusion of the conference. There will be limited oral answers given at the conference by the DPH's representatives. These answers are tentative and not binding on the DPH. All questions submitted will be answered in a written amendment to this RFP, which will serve as DPH's official response to questions asked at the conference. If any answer to any question constitutes a material change to the RFP, the question and answer will be placed at the beginning of the amendment and duly noted as such. The Agency will release the amendment on the date established in the Procurement Schedule. DPH will publish any amendments to this RFP on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, on DPH's RFP Web Page.

RFP Conference Link: Ryan White Part B RFP 2027-0905 I Meeting I Microsoft Teams

11.Proposal Due Date and Time. The Official Contact is the only authorized recipient of proposals submitted in response to this RFP. Proposals must be received by the Official Contact on or before the due date and time: Monday, August 31, 2026, at 4.00 pm Eastern Daylight Time

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Please be aware that delays may occur when emailing submissions with large attachments, and plan accordingly. Proposals received after the due date and time will be ineligible for review. DPH will send an official letter alerting late Proposers of ineligibility.

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An acceptable submission must include the following:

One (1) conforming electronic copy of the original proposal.

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The proposal must be complete, properly formatted, and outlined, and ready for evaluation by the Screening Committee.

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The electronic copy of the proposal must be emailed to the official agency contact for this procurement. The subject line of the email must read: DPH-RFP-2027-0905 Response. The main body should be submitted in PDF format, while the provided budget template should be submitted as a spreadsheet (See Appendix E.1 and E.2). Required forms and appendices may be scanned and submitted as PDFs at the end of the main proposal document. Please consolidate the main proposal body and attachments into a single PDF file or as few files as possible. Please be sure that each file submitted with your proposal is appropriately titled with your organization's name and an indicator of the content. For example, if you are submitting the main body and

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STATE OF CONNECTICUT – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH RYAN WHITE PART B RFP DPH 2027-0905

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8. Letter of Intent. A Letter of Intent (LOI) is not required by this RFP but is highly encouraged. The LOI is non-binding and does not obligate the sender to submit a proposal. The LOI must be submitted to the Official Contact by e-mail by the deadline established in the Procurement Schedule. The LOI must clearly identify the sender, including name, postal address, telephone number, and e-mail address. It is the sender’s responsibility to confirm the DPH’s receipt of the

LOI.

9. Inquiry Procedures. All questions regarding this RFP or the Agency’s procurement process must be directed, in writing, electronically (email) to the Official Contact before the deadline specified in the Procurement Schedule. The early submission of questions is encouraged. Questions will not be accepted or answered verbally – neither in person nor over the telephone. All questions related to this RFP and the procurement process received before the deadline(s) will be answered by self-identified Proposers. However, the Agency will not answer questions when the source is unknown (i.e., nuisance or anonymous questions). At its discretion, the Agency may or may not respond to questions received after the deadline. The Agency may combine similar questions and give only one answer. All questions and answers will be compiled into a written amendment to this RFP. If any answer to any question constitutes a material change to the RFP, the question and answer will be placed at the beginning of the amendment and duly noted as such.

The agency will release the answers to questions on the date(s) established in the Procurement Schedule. The Agency will publish any and all amendments to this RFP on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, on the Agency’s RFP Web Page. At its discretion, the Agency may distribute any amendments to this RFP to Prospective Proposers who submitted a Letter of Intent or attended the RFP Conference.

10. RFP Conference. A virtual RFP Bidder’s Conference will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00 am EST to answer questions from Prospective Proposers. Attendance at the conference is optional but highly encouraged. DPH will publish conference material on its website following the conclusion of the conference. There will be limited oral answers given at the conference by the DPH’s representatives. These answers are tentative and not binding on the DPH. All questions submitted will be answered in a written amendment to this RFP, which will serve as DPH’s official response to questions asked at the conference. If any answer to any question constitutes a material change to the RFP, the question and answer will be placed at the beginning of the amendment and duly noted as such. The Agency will release the amendment on the date established in the Procurement Schedule. DPH will publish any amendments to this RFP on the State Contracting Portal and, if available, on DPH’s RFP Web Page.

RFP Conference Link: Ryan White Part B RFP 2027-0905 | Meeting | Microsoft Teams

11. Proposal Due Date and Time. The Official Contact is the only authorized recipient of proposals submitted in response to this RFP. Proposals must be received by the Official Contact on or before the due date and time: Monday, August 31, 2026, at 4.00 pm Eastern Daylight Time

Please be aware that delays may occur when emailing submissions with large attachments, and plan accordingly. Proposals received after the due date and time will be ineligible for review. DPH will send an official letter alerting late Proposers of ineligibility.

An acceptable submission must include the following:

One (1) conforming electronic copy of the original proposal.

The proposal must be complete, properly formatted, and outlined, and ready for evaluation by the Screening Committee.

The electronic copy of the proposal must be emailed to the official agency contact for this procurement. The subject line of the email must read: DPH-RFP-2027-0905 Response. The main body should be submitted in PDF format, while the provided budget template should be submitted as a spreadsheet (See Appendix E.1 and E.2). Required forms and appendices may be scanned and submitted as PDFs at the end of the main proposal document. Please consolidate the main proposal body and attachments into a single PDF file or as few files as possible. Please be sure that each file submitted with your proposal is appropriately titled with your organization's name and an indicator of the content. For example, if you are submitting the main body and https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_NDg1ODM4ZWQtNjc4Yy00OGUyLTgyYjQtZDNmYzE5ZGY0MTgw%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22118b7cfa-a3dd-48b9-b026-31ff69bb738b%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2295a481bb-08f4-44f1-8810-1aea7b7c1717%22%7d attachments as one file, an appropriate file title would be "ORGNAME_FullProposal" If you are submitting the budget, an appropriate file title would be "ORGNAME_Budget".

Please ensure the entire email submission is less than 25MB, as this reflects server limitations.

Proposers should work to ensure there are no additional IT limitations from the provider side.

12.Multiple Proposals. The submission of multiple proposals is not allowed with this procurement.

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There are eight (8) Core and seven (7) Support services listed in Section 2, Part D.2(a), that will be funded by the RWPB Program from 2027 to 2030. The Scope of Work Application allows entities to apply to provide all eight (8) Core Services and six (6) of the seven (7) Support Services (specifically, all Support Services except Non-Medical case Management) either as the Eastern Planning Region Hub or the Western Planning Region Hub through a single proposal. The Statewide TLC Coordinator application will focus solely on Transitional Linkages to Community, must provide Non-Medical Case Management, Medical Transportation, Food Bank, and Emergency Financial Assistance Services, and may provide any of the remaining Support Services or referrals for Core Services, as necessary in the Proposer's discretion. Please be aware that there are some requirements specific to this procurement:

•A single entity may respond to serve only one planning region (Eastern, Western, or Statewide).

•Proposers can subcontract for services to be provided in the planning region.

CT Department of Public Health I Page 7 of 48

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STATE OF CONNECTICUT – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH RYAN WHITE PART B RFP DPH 2027-0905

CT Department of Public Health | Page 7 of 48 attachments as one file, an appropriate file title would be “ORGNAME_FullProposal”. If you are submitting the budget, an appropriate file title would be “ORGNAME_Budget”.

Please ensure the entire email submission is less than 25MB, as this reflects server limitations.

Proposers should work to ensure there are no additional IT limitations from the provider side.

12. Multiple Proposals. The submission of multiple proposals is not allowed with this procurement.

There are eight (8) Core and seven (7) Support services listed in Section 2, Part D.2(a), that will be funded by the RWPB Program from 2027 to 2030. The Scope of Work Application allows entities to apply to provide all eight (8) Core Services and six (6) of the seven (7) Support Services (specifically, all Support Services except Non-Medical case Management) either as the Eastern Planning Region Hub or the Western Planning Region Hub through a single proposal. The Statewide TLC Coordinator application will focus solely on Transitional Linkages to Community, must provide Non-Medical Case Management, Medical Transportation, Food Bank, and Emergency Financial Assistance Services, and may provide any of the remaining Support Services or referrals for Core Services, as necessary in the Proposer’s discretion. Please be aware that there are some requirements specific to this procurement:

• A single entity may respond to serve only one planning region (Eastern, Western, or Statewide).

• Proposers can subcontract for services to be provided in the planning region.

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II. PURPOSE OF RFP AND SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH OVERVIEW

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH or Agency) is the state's leader in public health policy As the central authority in a comprehensive network of public health services, DPH serves as a key partner to local health departments across Connecticut. The Agency plays a vital role in shaping and advancing public health priorities by providing advocacy, training and certification, technical assistance, and expert consultation. It also delivers specialized services, such as risk assessments, that are not typically available at the local level.

DPH is a trusted and timely source of accurate health information for the Governor, the Legislature, the Federal government, and Connecticut's communities. This information is essential for monitoring the health status of residents, setting health priorities, and evaluating the effectiveness of public health initiatives and policies.

Focused on measurable health outcomes, DPH works to maintain a balanced approach that ensures both the quality of services and the effective administration of personnel, facilities, and programs. The Agency is also recognized as a national leader, contributing directly to federal public health efforts and informing the work of U.S. government agencies and Congress.

Mission Statement: The mission of DPH is to protect and improve the health and safety of the people of Connecticut by:

•Assuring the conditions in which people can be healthy;

•Preventing disease, injury, and disability; and •Promoting equal enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health, which is a human right and a priority of the state.

B. RYAN WHITE PART B PROGRAM - HEALTH CARE SUPPORTS AND SERVICES

DPH administers the RWPB Health Care and Support Services (HCSS) Program to ensure that medically underserved, low-income individuals with HIV have access to essential care and services. As a payer of last resort, the program funds services based on income eligibility, with priority given to those who are Out of Care (i.e., individuals who do not have a primary care provider, infectious disease provider, or medical case manager or who do not attend appointments with such providers) or otherwise face significant barriers to access.

To meet the diverse needs of people with HIV across the state, DPH contracts with a broad network of community-based organizations, HIV service providers, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), community health centers, local health departments, and other eligible health care providers. These partnerships are critical in delivering a comprehensive, coordinated system of care.

The purpose of this RFP is to identify Proposers who will implement a program to either serve as one of two separate geographical Planning Region Hubs to provide access to a full range of Core and Support Services, or to serve as one Statewide Coordinator for TLC. These services aim to improve retention in care, achieve viral load suppression, reduce health disparities, and contribute to ending the HIV epidemic in Connecticut by 2030. This initiative is grounded in the goals of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act and adheres to the HIV/AIDS Bureau's Division of State HIV/AIDS Programs National Monitoring Standards for RWPB Grantees, Ending the HIV Epidemic, the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, Connecticut's Integrated Plan (https://www.cthivplanning.org/). as well as the Connecticut RWPB Standards of Care.

DPH is deeply committed to the elimination of health inequities. Racial and ethnic minorities, as well as other underserved populations in Connecticut, continue to face disproportionate burdens of disease and limited access to care. As such, all proposals must demonstrate which populations within the Proposer's selected RPA experience greater barriers to accessing healthcare (Priority Populations) as supported by relevant data-and outline how proposed services and activities will address these barriers. Proposers must clearly identify Priority Populations and describe specific, evidence-based strategies to reduce barriers.

CT Department of Public Health Page 8 of 48

CT Department of Public Health | Page 8 of 48

II. PURPOSE OF RFP AND SCOPE OF SERVICES

A. CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH OVERVIEW

The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH or Agency) is the state’s leader in public health policy . As the central authority in a comprehensive network of public health services, DPH serves as a key partner to local health departments across Connecticut. The Agency plays a vital role in shaping and advancing public health priorities by providing advocacy, training and certification, technical assistance, and expert consultation. It also delivers specialized services, such as risk assessments, that are not typically available at the local level.

DPH is a trusted and timely source of accurate health information for the Governor, the Legislature, the Federal government, and Connecticut’s communities. This information is essential for monitoring the health status of residents, setting health priorities, and evaluating the effectiveness of public health initiatives and policies.

Focused on measurable health outcomes, DPH works to maintain a balanced approach that ensures both the quality of services and the effective administration of personnel, facilities, and programs. The Agency is also recognized as a national leader, contributing directly to federal public health efforts and informing the work of U.S. government agencies and Congress.

Mission Statement: The mission of DPH is to protect and improve the health and safety of the people of Connecticut by:

• Assuring the conditions in which people can be healthy;

• Preventing disease, injury, and disability; and

• Promoting equal enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health, which is a human right and a priority of the state.

B. RYAN WHITE PART B PROGRAM – HEALTH CARE SUPPORTS AND SERVICES

DPH administers the RWPB Health Care and Support Services (HCSS) Program to ensure that medically underserved, low-income individuals with HIV have access to essential care and services. As a payer of last resort, the program funds services based on income eligibility, with priority given to those who are Out of Care (i.e., individuals who do not have a primary care provider, infectious disease provider, or medical case manager or who do not attend appointments with such providers) or otherwise face significant barriers to access.

To meet the diverse needs of people with HIV across the state, DPH contracts with a broad network of community-based organizations, HIV service providers, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), community health centers, local health departments, and other eligible health care providers. These partnerships are critical in delivering a comprehensive, coordinated system of care.

The purpose of this RFP is to identify Proposers who will implement a program to either serve as one of two separate geographical Planning Region Hubs to provide access to a full range of Core and Support Services, or to serve as one Statewide Coordinator for TLC. These services aim to improve retention in care, achieve viral load suppression, reduce health disparities, and contribute to ending the HIV epidemic in Connecticut by 2030. This initiative is grounded in the goals of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act and adheres to the HIV/AIDS Bureau’s Division of State HIV/AIDS Programs National Monitoring Standards for RWPB Grantees, Ending the HIV Epidemic, the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, Connecticut’s Integrated Plan (https://www.cthivplanning.org/), as well as the Connecticut RWPB Standards of Care.

DPH is deeply committed to the elimination of health inequities. Racial and ethnic minorities, as well as other underserved populations in Connecticut, continue to face disproportionate burdens of disease and limited access to care. As such, all proposals must demonstrate which populations within the Proposer’s selected RPA experience greater barriers to accessing healthcare (Priority Populations) as supported by relevant data—and outline how proposed services and activities will address these barriers. Proposers must clearly identify Priority Populations and describe specific, evidence-based strategies to reduce barriers.

https://www.cthivplanning.org/

B. RYAN WHITE PART B PROGRAM - HEALTH CARE SERVICES AND SUPPORTS (cont'd) Problem Statement: Despite medical advancements in HIV treatment, many low-income individuals with HIV in Connecticut remain medically underserved. These individuals face structural barriers to care, including poverty, stigma, housing instability, and inadequate access to culturally competent health services. These challenges contribute to gaps in the HIV care continuum-especially in linkage to care, retention in care, and viral suppression-ultimately hindering statewide efforts to reduce HIV transmission and improve health outcomes.

Program Outcome Goals: The Proposer will be expected to achieve the following quantifiable outcomes:

1.Increase Retention in HIV Medical Care - Ensure at least eighty-five percent (85)% of enrolled clients receive continuous medical care within a twelve (12)-month reporting period.

2.Improve Viral Suppression Rates - Achieve and maintain viral suppression in at least ninety percent (90%) of clients receiving medical services.

3.Enhance Linkages to Core and Support Services - Ensure that ninety-five percent (95%) of newly enrolled clients are linked to care within thirty (30) days.

Program Policies/Guidelines: The HCSS Program operates as a payer of last resort, in compliance with the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act and aligned with the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) HIV/AIDS Bureau's National Monitoring Standards for Part B Grantees. All funded services must follow the Connecticut RWPB Standards of Care. Contracts require detailed program monitoring, client eligibility verification, and data reporting through the Agency's designated client-level data system.

Priority Population: The HSCC Program serves low-income people with HIV (PWH) in Connecticut who are uninsured or underinsured and meet income eligibility guidelines. Priority Populations include:

■Individuals who are Out of Care or newly diagnosed with HIV.

■Racial and ethnic minorities-particularly Black and Latino populations, who account for over sixty percent (60%) of new HIV diagnoses in the state.

■Individuals facing significant social determinants of health barriers, such as unstable housing, mental health conditions, or substance use.

According to Connecticut DPH 2024 provisional surveillance data, approximately 11,000 individuals have HIV in Connecticut, with ongoing disparities in access and outcomes.

Evidence-Based Programming: The HCSS Program prioritizes evidence-based interventions that are proven to enhance retention in care and viral suppression, including:

■Medical case management.

■Rapid ART (antiretroviral therapy) initiation.

■Peer navigation and outreach.

■Integrated behavioral health and substance use services.

These interventions are grounded in CDC and HRSA-recommended models and tailored for the local population's needs.

Preferred Practices: Preferred practices for implementation include:

•Use of culturally competent, trauma-informed…