S02-36C25523R0060-032123.docx
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- G004--2023 HCHV CERS Acquisition, Columbia MO
- Solicitation number
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| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| P09_2023 HCHV Contract Emergency Residential Services PWS with security and transportation language_PG.docx | DOCX document | |
| D.11 HCHV INCIDENT REPORT.pdf | ||
| S06-36C25523R0060 0001.docx | DOCX document | |
| D.8 HCHV Medication Inspection Checklist - 2018.pdf | ||
| D.6 Mileage Log_v1.xlsx | XLSX spreadsheet | |
| D.4 Past Performance Contacts.docx | DOCX document | |
| D.1 FINAL 2023 HCHV CERS QASP.docx | DOCX document | |
| D.3 IMMIGRAT_CERT_.docx | DOCX document | |
| D.10 HCHV_CRS_Inspection_Form_Nutrition (1).pdf | ||
| D.7 HCHV CRS Inspection Form - 2018.pdf | ||
| D.2 WDOL_5079rev18_07-11-2022.docx | DOCX document | |
| D.1 QASP _final.docx | DOCX document | |
| D.9 Quarterly Environmental Review.pdf | ||
| D.5 Small Business Subcontracting Plan Template.docx | DOCX document |
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36C25522Q0465
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
36C25523R0060 03-21-2023 Hansroth, Jessica 913-946-1114 04-21-2023 17:00
36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 15 3450 S 4th Street Trafficway
Leavenworth KS 66048
X
624221 $12 Million one
N/A
00255 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 15 3450 S 4th Street Trafficway Leavenworth, KS 66048
36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 15 3450 S 4th Street Trafficway
Leavenworth KS 66048
36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp
Austin TX 877-353-9791 512-460-5429
See CONTINUATION Page
HEALTH CARE FOR HOMELESS VETERANS (HCHV) SERVICES
To provide HCHV Services as described in the attached Performance Work Statement. The period of performance is one (1) base year with four (4) one-year option periods.
This is a firm-fixed price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity solicitation.
Services are being solicited for the Columbia, MO VA Medical Center with the intent for multiple awards.
See CONTINUATION Page x x
ONE
Galvin, Paula
VHA-RPOC-2021-10
Table of Contents
| SECTION A | 1 |
| A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES | 1 |
| SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS | 4 |
| B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA | 4 |
| B2. PRICE SCHEDULE | 5 |
| B3. DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/Performance Work Statement | 8 |
| SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES | 34 |
| C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2021) | 34 |
| C.2 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998) | 40 |
| C.3 52.216-18 ORDERING (AUG 2020) | 41 |
| C.4 52.216-19 ORDER LIMITATIONS (OCT 1995) | 42 |
| C.5 52.216-22 INDEFINITE QUANTITY (OCT 1995) | 42 |
| C.6 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999) | 43 |
| C.7 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000) | 43 |
| C.8 52.219-28 POST-AWARD SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REREPRESENTATION (OCT 2022) | 43 |
| C.9 52.232-19 AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS FOR THE NEXT FISCAL YEAR (APR 1984) | 46 |
| C.10 VAAR 852.212-70 PROVISIONS AND CLAUSES APPLICABLE TO VA ACQUISITION OF COMMERCIAL ITEMS (APR 2020) | 46 |
| C.11 VAAR 852.219-74 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING—MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE (JUL 2018) | 48 |
| C.12 VAAR 852.237-70 INDEMNIFICATION AND MEDICAL LIABILITY INSURANCE (OCT 2019) | 49 |
| C.13 VAAR 852.237-75 KEY PERSONNEL (OCT 2019) | 50 |
| C.14 VAAR 852.242-71 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICER (OCT 2020) | 50 |
| C.15 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (DEC 2022) ALTERNATE II (DEC 2022) | 50 |
| C.16 MANDATORY WRITTEN DISCLOSURES | 58 |
| SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS | 59 |
| SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS | 60 |
| E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2021) | 60 |
| E.2 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998) | 68 |
| E.3 52.204-15 SERVICE CONTRACT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR INDEFINITE-DELIVERY CONTRACTS (OCT 2016) | 68 |
| E.4 52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT (NOV 2021) | 69 |
| E.5 52.212-2 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2021) | 72 |
| E.6 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984) | 73 |
| E.7 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006) | 73 |
| E.8 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAY 2022) (JUL 2020) (DEVIATION) | 74 |
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:
b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C255 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 15 3450 S 4th Street Trafficway Leavenworth KS 66048
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.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:
| AMENDMENT NO |
| DATE |
B2. PRICE SCHEDULE
a. In accordance with FAR 16.504 (a)(4) this shall be an Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) fixed price contract. It is the governments intent to issue multiple awards. The period of performance for this contract will be for a Base Year plus four (4) Option Years. It is understood that no obligation will be incurred by the VA except for services rendered under this contract pursuant to referrals issued by the VA for residential treatment for Veterans. This contract will serve up to 45 chronically street homeless Veterans in need of immediate placement in a safe environment with onsite supportive services.
b . Contract Minimum and Maximum: In accordance with FAR Clause 52.216-22, Indefinite Quantity, as prescribed in FAR 16.506 (e), the overall guaranteed minimum amount established is $1000.00 and the overall maximum amount for this contract is $8,800,000.00. The $500.00 guaranteed minimum is only applicable in the fiscal year of the base award. The Government does not guarantee that it will place any orders under this contract in excess of the guaranteed minimum award amount.
c. Fair Opportunity: Based on the Veteran’s specific need, geographic location of the homeless Veteran, and gender available space, the HCHV Coordinator determines placement. Based on the Veteran’s needs, there may be times when the standard Fair Opportunity practice cannot be exercised, and placement determination is based solely on the VA coordinator.
d. Transportation mileage reimbursement rate will be updated by a request from vendor at any time during the performance period or at the exercise of an option to reflect current mileage reimbursement rates at www.gsa.gov
e. The government’s estimated BDOC per year does not exceed 16,425.
Based Year: To Be Determined-Approximately August 01, 2023 through July 31, 2024
LIN*
DESCRIPTION:
| PRICE PER BDOC: |
| ESTIMATED BDOC PER YEAR (Contractor’s Estimated Capacity. Maximum does not exceed 16,425) |
| TOTAL |
| 0001 |
| Bed Days of Care (BDOC) |
LIN*
DESCRIPTION:
| PRICE PER MILE |
| ESTIMATED MILEAGE |
| TOTAL |
| 0002 |
| Transportation Mileage (see PWS 5.g) |
2,340
* Line Item Number
Option Period 1: August 01, 2024 through July 31, 2025
LIN
DESCRIPTION:
| PRICE PER BDOC: |
| ESTIMATED BDOC PER YEAR (Contractor’s Estimated Capacity. Maximum does not exceed 16,425) |
| TOTAL |
| 1001 |
| Bed Days of Care (BDOC) |
LIN*
| PRICE PER MILE |
| ESTIMATED MILEAGE |
| TOTAL |
| 1002 |
| Transportation Mileage (see PWS 5.g) |
2,340
Option Period 2: August 01, 2025 through July 31, 2026
LIN
DESCRIPTION:
| PRICE PER BDOC: |
| ESTIMATED BDOC PER YEAR (Contractor’s Estimated Capacity. Maximum does not exceed 16,425) |
| TOTAL |
| 2001 |
| Bed Days of Care (BDOC) |
LIN*
| PRICE PER MILE |
| ESTIMATED MILEAGE |
| TOTAL |
| 2002 |
| Transportation Mileage (see PWS 5.g) |
2,340
Option Period 3: August 01, 2026 through July 31, 2027
LIN
DESCRIPTION:
| PRICE PER BDOC: |
| ESTIMATED BDOC PER YEAR (Contractor’s Estimated Capacity. Maximum does not exceed 16,425) |
| TOTAL |
| 3001 |
| Bed Days of Care (BDOC) |
LIN*
| PRICE PER MILE |
| ESTIMATED MILEAGE |
| TOTAL |
| 3002 |
| Transportation Mileage (see PWS 5.g) |
2,340
Option Period 4: August 01, 2027 through July 31, 2028
LIN
DESCRIPTION:
| PRICE PER BDOC: |
| ESTIMATED BDOC PER YEAR (Contractor’s Estimated Capacity. Maximum does not exceed 16,425) |
| TOTAL |
| 4001 |
| Bed Days of Care (BDOC) |
LIN*
| PRICE PER MILE |
| ESTIMATED MILEAGE |
| TOTAL |
| 4002 |
| Transportation Mileage (see PWS 5.g) |
2,340
| Contract Total – Base and all option years |
| $ |
36C25522Q0465
Page 1 of Page 1 of B3. DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/Performance Work Statement
1. OVERVIEW: The Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Columbia, Missouri hereafter referred to as Truman VA Hospital located at 800 Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65201, requires Contractor to provide homeless Veteran services through a Contracted Emergency Residential Services (CERS) model of residential care at a facility located within 25 miles of the above VA Medical Center. These services, 45 Bed Days of Care (BDOC) not to exceed 16,425 BDOC annually, are to be provided to homeless Veterans as defined in the Performance Work Statement (PWS). The VA National Center on Homelessness among Veterans (“the Center”) will provide ongoing training for program development for both contract providers and VA staff. Contractor will be evaluated based on the Center’s established evaluation protocol and program fidelity measures.
Contracted Emergency Residential Services (CERS) programs target and prioritize homeless Veterans transitioning from literal street homelessness, Veterans being discharged from institutions, and Veterans who recently became homeless and require safe and stable living arrangements while they seek permanent housing. CERS Programs, either directly or through linkage with community and other VA services, provide time-limited services such as supporting mental health stabilization, SUD treatment services, enhancement of independent living skills, vocational training, and employment services. Emphasis is placed on referral and placement in permanent housing or longer-term residential programs utilizing VA and/or community resources. Lengths of stay in CERS typically range from 30 to 90 days with the option to extend based on clinical need. Eligibility will be determined by the VA, based on Veteran status; meeting the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act definition of homelessness (see http://www.hudhre.info/hearth/ for additional information); and an assessment by the VA Health Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) program resulting in a determination of designating the Veteran highly vulnerable and requiring CERS services. This is an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract for the period August 1, 2023, to July 31, 2028, in accordance with FAR 16.5.
2. BACKGROUND AND OVERVIEW: The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) has been providing direct and specialized services for homeless Veterans for nearly 25 years. The Secretary of the VA has set a zero-tolerance policy for homelessness within the Veteran population. As part of the Plan to End Homelessness among Veterans announced in late 2009, the Veterans Health Administration has been increasing both capacity of existing programs and services offered to program participants. The plan calls for utilizing new models of care not previously offered by VA.
The VA’s Plan to End Veteran Homelessness calls for enhancing current homeless service capacity as well as developing new programs and initiatives in concert with community and federal partners. This contract will enable a community provider to offer homeless Veterans services through a CERS model of residential care. This model will offer services to homeless Veterans under the HCHV CERS program enhanced by the services as defined in the PWS. Rapid stabilization of the Veterans’ medical, mental health, substance abuse and other psychosocial problems to place Veterans in other appropriate transitional or permanent housing within 30 to 60 days, with no more than 120 days, without a planned reason for the extension approved by the VA Liaison, is an expected outcome of this Contract.
The community-based Contractor should have a minimum of 24 months experience as a CERS provider or 24 months experience with other Emergency Shelter models or experience with direct service to the homeless, or a combination of the above documented in its proposal.
This contract will be awarded to a Contractor or Contractors having an acceptable facility within 25 miles of Truman VA Hospital. If no facilities are available within this area, consideration will be given to the Contractor(s) whose facility meets all the stated requirements and is closest to the Medical Center. A VA Liaison to the Contractor will be identified by the Homeless Program leadership at Truman VA Hospital. This individual will act as the coordinator of the CERS program for administrative issues and as the clinical liaison for all client-related issues between the Contractor(s) and Truman VA Hospital by providing clinical oversight. The VA Liaison will not provide direct clinical supervision to Contractor(s) staff. The VA Liaison will also consult with and provide input to the Contractor(s) as needed.
The Contractor shall provide all labor, supervision, housing, material and supplies necessary to provide emergency residential placement, treatment, and supportive services through the HCHV program CERS Model. Services will be provided on-site at the Contractor’s facility, in accordance with all terms, conditions, provisions and requirements listed herein. The prices provided in the Price Schedule shall be inclusive of all “basic services” as may be necessary in the treatment of the Veteran. “Basic services” shall be as defined in the Performance Work Statement.
| 3. | IMPLEMENTATION TIMELINE: The contract facility and associated onsite services are expected to pass inspection and become fully operational within 30 days from the date of contract award. Failure to meet the 30-day milestone may result in the contract being terminated. The Contractor will demonstrate successful completion of the following tasks, validated by VA inspection, prior to receiving Veteran referrals and invoicing for payment: |
| a. | Site control demonstrated at time of contract award. This may be through ownership or lease. All permits and licenses will be reviewed. The Contractor is required to ensure that the facility used for this contract meets fire and safety code imposed by the State law, and the Life Safety Code of the National Fire and Protection Association. It is important to note that typically the Life Safety Code is more stringent than local or state codes. No additional funds will be made available for capital improvements under this contract. Applicants also should note that all facilities, unless they are specifically exempted under the Life Safety Code, are required to have an operational sprinkler system. VA will conduct an inspection that Contractor sites must pass prior to contract award. The Contractor is required to ensure the facility used for this contract meets the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines for accessible accommodations for Veterans with physical limitations or impairments. This is also referred to as “Architectural Barriers Act compliant.” At least 8% – 10% of a facility’s HCHV Contract Residential Care beds must meet ADA accessibility requirements, to include entrances/exits, bathroom facilities, and common areas. For example, if a Contractor has 25 beds for the HCHV Contract Residential Care program in the facility, two (2) to three (3) of those beds must be accessible to Veterans with physical limitations or impairments. Veterans must not be segregated from the rest of the facility due to physical disability; they must have full access to the services and supports at the facility. Contractor facility must be licensed as required for the particular setting under State or Federal authority, and must meet all applicable local, state, and/or Federal requirements concerning licensing and health/occupancy codes. Copies of valid licenses must be provided to the VA at the time of pre-inspection and for all annual inspection reviews. Where applicable, the facility must have a current occupancy permit issued by the authority having jurisdiction. Contracted Emergency Residential Services housing and supportive services for female Veterans under this contract are required to ensure the safety and privacy of these Veterans. Men and women must have separate bathroom facilities. The facility must have female residential rooms or sections that are securely segregated or restricted from men to ensure safety and privacy. If the facility cannot accommodate both male and female Veterans at one location, the provider must make available equivalent facilities and services for the opposite gender that meet the terms of the contract for facilities and services. |
| b. | Pre-Award Inspection of the facility and on-site services conducted by VA contract inspection team. This team is made up of HCHV clinical staff, VA fire and safety officials, nursing, dietetics, and other staff as deemed necessary for facility inspection. Pre-award inspection will be completed within 30 days of proposal submission. Any items requiring corrective action will be communicated to the Contractor in writing within one (1) week of inspection. |
| c. | Complete the abatement of all inspection corrective action(s) and pass VA inspection. To be completed within 30 days of pre-award inspection. |
| d. | Identify all staff required per the PWS, have them in place and available to provide full range of case management and services to Veterans. This is to be completed within 30 days of contract award. |
| e. | Work will be performed at the Contractor’s facility within the geographic limitations outlined above. Government furnished workspace will not be provided for this effort. Government furnished property will not be provided to the Contractor. All equipment required by the Contractor will provided at their expense. The Contractor will be required to attend frequent meetings and planning sessions at Truman VA Hospital throughout the term of the contract. |
| f. | The Contractor shall not commence performance under this contract until the Contracting Officer has conducted a kickoff meeting or has advised the Contractor that a kick-off meeting is waived. |
| 4. | GUIDELINES FOR SERVICES: |
| a. | Annual HCHV Re-Inspections: Annual re-inspections must occur for each HCHV CRS program and must be passed with 100% compliance. When annual inspections are not possible, a minimum of four unannounced site visits are required. Annual re-inspections should be unannounced whenever possible. For any deficiency that is noted during inspections, plans of correction with timeframes to correct the deficiency must be submitted by the Contractor within 15 days of notification. |
(1) When an unannounced inspection is not possible due to privacy or other concerns, the HCHV CRS Liaison must still ensure that at a minimum four unannounced site visits are made annually. These unannounced site visits must include:
(2) A visual safety and sanitation inspection of the facility including meal preparation areas, fire exits, sleeping areas and medication storage. Any safety or sanitation deficiency must be addressed immediately. The Nutrition and Food Service checklist is at D.10, Attachment 10.
(3) Review of the contract provider’s emergency and disaster plans to ensure they are up to date, and that staff are trained in the procedures outlined in the plans.
(4) An audit of Veteran’s clinical records selected randomly to ensure documentation of case management services and that other services are being provided as required by the contract terms.
(5) Review of any Veteran complaints to ensure that these have been resolved in a fair, impartial and consistent manner.
b. Cursory Environment Review:
(1) When VA medical facility staff is at a HCHV CRS site, a cursory environmental review must be conducted using D.9, Attachment 9.
(2) If a hazardous condition or deficiency is noted, the HCHV CRS Liaison or other VA medical facility staff must act to ensure that immediate appropriate actions are taken by the HCHV CRS provider to ensure the safety and well-being of the Veterans and then make appropriate notification to VA medical facility staff to include the CO and COR for inspection, guidance and follow-up.
(3) Any hazards or deficiencies noted must be documented in the COR Administrative File for that HCHV CRS program along with the resolution.
c. The Contractor must provide a safe environment for all Veterans consistent with the CERS model of housing and services. The Contractor will offer a safe and stable time-limited living environment along with supportive services necessary to complete an individualized treatment plan to obtain permanent housing. Veterans cannot be denied entry to CERS based solely upon length of current abstinence from alcohol or non-prescribed controlled substances, the number of previous treatment episodes, the time interval since the last program entry, the use of prescribed controlled substances, or legal history. The screening process must consider each of these special circumstances and determine whether the program can meet the individual Veteran's needs while maintaining the program's safety, security, and integrity.
| • | Acceptance of treatment cannot be a condition of admission or continued stay; |
| • | Medication adherence or compliance cannot be a condition of admission or continued stay; |
| • | Abstinence from alcohol or drugs cannot be a condition of admission or continued stay; Infractions of rules should be used as opportunities for engagement; |
| • | Management of suspected or known drug or alcohol use or relapse by one or more Veterans and interventions based on the Safe Haven model including Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction; |
| • | On-site contraband, weapons, drug or alcohol related paraphernalia (i.e., found alcohol, drugs, drug “works”, etc.) and utilize interventions based on the Harm Reduction model; |
| • | Safe prescription medication storage and handling, including specific provisions for prescribed controlled substances; |
| • | Room inspections, including methods and frequency to be tracked in a log and available for review by VA staff upon request; |
| • | Grievance process to address Veteran complaints with Contractor providing a response to the VA within 3 business days. |
| • | Client abandonment of belongings in the facility, including time frames and procedures for disposal; |
| • | Process to elicit client satisfaction with the facility and onsite services, including information collection methods and frequency, and process for utilizing the information for continual performance improvement purposes; and |
| • | Procedure for medical records request by veteran with a specifics regarding re-release of information. |
| d. | These policies and procedures must be communicated to Veterans both verbally and in writing in a manner that is understandable within 72 business hours of admission to the facility. This communication must be documented in the Veteran’s client record. |
| e. | House rules and expectations should be kept to a minimum, be simple, and should focus on safety of the Veterans and staff. Most Veterans may have had difficulty in the past adhering to settings where strict rules are applied. The rules should reward positive behavior, be enforceable, relate to the living situation, provide for safety of the Veterans and provide opportunities for engagement. Veterans will not be discharged for the use of alcohol or drugs. Many of the Veterans that this program will target have failed programs in the past for their inability to stay clean and sober. Maintaining housing stability will be the primary goal for each Veteran. To provide for the safety of the Veteran(s), the Contractor must have written policies and procedures in place that clearly indicate the following are prohibited: |
| • | Dealing or use of illicit drugs/alcohol at the facility; |
| • | Buying or selling of alcohol or drugs in the facility; |
| • | Sexual activity between Veterans (including kissing and holding hands); |
| • | Violence or threat of violence toward Veterans or facility staff; |
| • | Destruction of facility property; |
| • | Possession of weapons. |
| f. | Although rules must be kept simple and demands on the Veterans low, it is required that staff at the facility stay continuously engaged with the Veterans. Policies and procedures for staff should reflect the following: Regular room checks should occur with a strong focus on maintaining a safe environment that promotes the well-being of all Veterans; Staff is trained in providing flexible, respectful responses to infractions of rules; Homeless Veterans will not be discharged for drinking or use of drugs off property, non-compliance with prescribed medication or infractions of house rules that do not constitute a risk to their personal safety or the safety of the facility Veterans or staff; and assertive engagement by the staff with patients regarding these problems is the preferred course of action to deal with these common problems of the Safe Haven facility |
| g. | The Contractor must communicate policies and procedures to Veterans both verbally and in writing in a manner that is understandable to each Veteran upon admission to the facility, in the form of a written Veteran handbook that is verbally reviewed by the assigned case manager with the Veteran. All updates to any policies and procedures must be reviewed with Veterans with 7 days of revision. This communication must be documented in the Veteran’s client record. |
| h. | Emergency and Disaster Plans: All HCHV CRS programs have emergency and disaster plans with written protocols that are posted to guide staff response to crises including, but not limited to, manmade and natural disasters, episodes of infectious diseases, physical injury, program participants suicide or suicide attempts, overdoses, and domestic or other violence. All contractor’s staff are trained on emergency procedures and protocols. |
| 5. | BASIC SERVICES. The Contractor shall furnish each Veteran referred for care under this contract the following basic services: | |
| a. | ROOM AND BOARD: Accommodations include a bed and other furnishings, such as a dresser, storage locker or designated secured space and personal linens (e.g., towels, pillows, blankets, and bed sheets). The bed must be designated for use exclusively by the individual Veteran from the time of admission to the time of discharge. The bed must be situated in a room that affords the Veteran safety, privacy, and security. Each Veteran must have a safe and secure place to store their belongings that is readily accessible to the Veteran (such as a locking closet, a locking armoire, a locker, etc.) The HCHV CRS contract provider is responsible for providing a sanitary food preparation area, supply food sufficient for at least three nutritious meals 7 days a week, and snacks of nourishing quality (e.g., fruits, vegetables, protein sources), between meals and bedtime. This is to include alternative meals or food supplies for Veterans with dietary restrictions if medically indicated (e.g., diabetic, renal, and soft mechanical diets) and reasonable accommodation for Veterans with cultural/religious preferences around food (e.g., Kosher, Sikh). The VA has particular concern for chronically homeless Veterans, many of whom are either undernourished or have developed poor eating habits or both, because of chronic medical, mental health or substance abuse disorders. A VA dietitian may assess printed menus as well as Veterans’ satisfaction with meals and the actual consumption of food offered in determining the Contractor’s success in meeting this requirement during annual facility inspection or at any point during the contract period. | |
| b. | LAUNDRY FACILITIES: Contractor will provide onsite laundry facilities and supplies free of charge for Veterans to do their own laundry or to have laundry done. The Contractor is responsible for the costs of laundry services. | |
| c. | INTERNET AND COMPUTER ACCESS: Internet access shall be available to Veterans residing at the facility. Access shall consist of a service/speed rating of at least 10 Megabytes per Second (Mbps) Download, 1Mbps Upload or better. Wireless or other access shall be provided so that it is possible for three (3) or more users to access internet services simultaneously. Facility shall provide hardware (computer(s), printer, etc.) to be utilized. Veterans conducting online employment or housing searches and submitting applications should be given priority of usage. The Contractor will be responsible for establishing hours of usage as well as setting any internet controls or firewall they deem essential. | |
| d. | SAFE ROOM: Provides a “safe room” where veterans returning to the facility under the influence can relax until they are ready to return to their rooms. This room should provide a television and comfortable seating. A minimum of 30-minute checks will be performed by staff on duty while a Veteran is in the “safe room.” More than one intoxicated Veteran is permitted in the room at a time. | |
| e. | ENVIRONMENT OF CARE SERVICES: The Contractor must provide a clean and comfortable environment of care that is structurally sound facility; does not pose any threat to the health and safety of the occupants and protects them from the elements. The facility entries and exit locations are to be capable of being utilized without allowing unauthorized use and must provide alternate means of egress in case of fire. Every room or space will have natural or mechanical ventilation. The facility will be free of pollutants in the air at levels that threaten the health of Veterans; provide a water supply free from contamination; and have sufficient sanitary facilities in proper operational condition, allowed to be used in privacy, and are adequate for personal cleanliness and the disposal of human waste. Facility must have adequate heating and cooling mechanisms that are in proper operating condition; adequate natural or artificial illumination to permit normal indoor activities and to support the health and safety of Veterans; and sufficient electrical sources to permit use of essential electrical appliance while assuring safety from fire. All housing and equipment will be maintained in a sanitary manner free from pests, insects and vermin and will provide a warm, welcoming, and respectful atmosphere through lighting and décor. Contractor ensures that furniture is well maintained and comfortable. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to maintain a clean and comfortable environment that meets these conditions. For example, the Contractor would be responsible for alleviating a bed bug infestation by hiring an exterminator at its own expense. | |
| f. | ON-SITE OFFICE SPACE FOR VA STAFF: The Contractor must provide designated onsite furnished office space for VA staff to meet with Veterans at the contracted facility. The office space must afford the VA staff and Veterans’ privacy and confidentiality when meeting. | |
| g. | TRANSPORTATION: The Contractor will ensure that transportation is available for Veterans at admission to CERS to attend medical/mental health appointments, search for permanent housing and to address other care needs. The Contractor shall assist the Veterans with local transportation through the provision of bus passes, utilization of cab services or use of Contractor transportation. If VA staff determines that adequate public transportation is not available or appropriate for a Veteran, the Contractor shall coordinate with the HCHV Coordinator or their designated representative to arrange for alternative transportation. Transportation may include but is not limited to VA transportation services and RideShare programs available through HCHV. If public transportation and alternate VA provided services are not available or appropriate, the Contractor is responsible for transportation which is constituted in BDOC rate. |
(1) Priority of transportation is as follows: Public transportation
a. Cab services coordinated through the contractor
b. Coordination with HCHV personnel for VA Funded Authorized Program Travel
c. Coordination with VA Travel programs (VTP/DAV)
d. Coordination with HCHV Coordinator for authorization to use Contractor transportation
(2) Contractor owned vehicles may be used to provide transportation on a case-by-case basis with prior HCHV Coordinator or designee approval. When the contractor owned vehicle is used for Veteran transportation, the contractor must maintain a log of all transportation milage for HCHV enrolled veterans. Point to point transportation, not to exceed fifty-two (52) episodes of transportation per HCHV enrolled veteran per calendar year. Every effort is to be made to transport as many veterans per trip as safely possible, reimbursement is by trip not by veteran. Mileage must be tracked on a daily trip log and submitted with the monthly invoices. The Mileage Log is located at Section D, Attachment 6.
(3) Reimbursed mileage shall be dictated by the Joint Travel Regulations. It is the Government’s policy to not allow a charge of profit or fee on reimbursable items and to only reimburse actual costs consistent with the Federal Travel Regulation.
https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/transportation-airfare-pov-etc/privately-owned-vehicle-pov-mileage-reimbursement-rates
(4) In accordance with the Federal Travel Regulation, subpart D, §301-10.302, mileage shall be captured between the origin and destination as shown in paper or electronic standard highway mileage guide or actual miles driven as determined from odometer readings. Only one method of tracking mileage shall be used. If odometer readings are submitted, an electronic standard highway mileage may be used for comparison of odometer readings as part of VA’s due diligence process.
https://www.gsa.gov/policy-regulations/regulations/federal-travel-regulation-ftr/i1206091#d25e5203
h. OUTREACH: Outreach will be conducted by the CERS provider and VA homeless outreach staff in conjunction with street outreach teams within VA catchment area. Engagement with the Veteran should be goal-directed with consistent staff geared toward building trust and getting the Veteran to accept CERS admission.
i. The Contractor shall comply with the principles listed in 38 CFR 17.707(b) to provide housing and supportive services in a manner that is free from religious discrimination.
| k. | MEDICATIONS: Contractor shall provide Veterans with appropriate space and security for the storage of medications as outlined in VHA-10-10115a HCHV Contractor Provider Inspection Template. A list of current medications will be available for each resident in the case record. Veterans will manage medications but should have a secure storage area in which to keep them. | ||
| (1) | The Contractor shall have a written procedure that address the storage while providing access to medications and safe disposal of medications and syringes. Each Veteran shall be educated about the medication procedures and the importance of safely storing their medications. |
a. BASIC RIGHTS AND PROTECTION AGAINST DISCRIMINATION: Contractors must protect the rights and dignity of the individual or family served in all phases of service delivery. At a minimum, providers must afford each Veteran the following rights and protections. Clients must be permitted to exercise these rights without fear of reprisal.
| (1) | Veterans are entitled to enjoy a safe and healthful environment in the program. |
| (2) | Veterans are entitled to be treated in a manner that respects their dignity, privacy, and individuality. |
| (3) | Veterans with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations under fair housing laws when such accommodations are necessary because of their disability. |
| (4) | Veterans are entitled to remain in the program and not be involuntarily removed without reasonable notice, good cause, and just procedures. |
| (5) | All program clients are entitled to just and standardized procedures for determining eligibility, admissions, sanctions, and discharges, and resolving grievances. |
| (6) | Veterans are entitled to reasonable privacy and confidential treatment of personal, social, financial, medical, mental, and behavioral health records, except as necessary to further treatment, information, and referral services and in compliance with the resident’s consent to release information. |
| (7) | Veterans are entitled to the full exercise of their civil, constitutional, and legal rights. |
| (8) | Veterans will have on-going opportunities to voice opinions, to participate in program operation and programming, and to make suggestions regarding programming and rules. |
| (9) | Veterans’ rights must be protected against all forms of discrimination, including those based on race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, language, disability (physical or mental health), medical condition, marital status, familial status, age, gender and gender identity, sex and sexual orientation, source of income, or political affiliation, |
| (10) | Veterans will receive a written policy indicating that harassment of clients and staff on the basis of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, language, disability (physical or mental health), medical condition, marital status, familial status, age, gender and gender identity, sex and sexual orientation, source of income, or political affiliation will not be condoned nor tolerated |
| (11) | For facilities with the capacity to safely shelter transgender Veterans, Contractors will develop a written policy for transgender clients that provides for safe, secure, and dignified case management and that accommodates the specific requirements needed for privacy. Transgender clients will have access to sleeping accommodations and bathroom facilities based on their gender identification, regardless of physical characteristics or gender conformity, with sleeping accommodations assigned and bathroom facilities use determined by the Veteran’s preference. People who do not clearly identify as male or female should have access to whichever sleeping and/or bathroom accommodation helps them feel safest. Where there are single-use showers and bathrooms in the facility designated for residents, transgender residents will be told about them and be welcome to use them though that will not be required. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to promote a safe environment for transgender clients amongst the general population. |
| (12) | Programs must post these policies in a conspicuous place and in appropriate languages. |
| (13) | All policies and procedures will be in writing and subject to review by the VA Liaison. |
7. REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION:
a. Contractor must respect and reasonably accommodate personal and cultural differences associated with race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, language, disability (physical or mental health), medical condition, marital status, familial status, age, gender and gender identity, sex and sexual orientation, source of income, or political affiliation.
b. At no point shall program access be denied because of an individual’s disability.
c. Information learned about the client’s disability from the assessment will not be used as grounds for discharge or other punishment and will be used to guide client to appropriate services. Moreover, a program may not apply different rules to individuals because of their disabilities, unless the different rules are a result of granting a reasonable accommodation request made by an individual with a disability.
d. The Contractor shall not ask questions about a client’s disability, including the nature and severity of the disability or the treatment, symptoms, and medications related to the disability. A Veteran is not obligated to reveal that s/he has a disability prior to admission.
e. Veterans with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations. If a Veteran requests a change in a program’s policy or procedure as an accommodation of his/her disability, the program should grant the accommodation when the accommodation is both reasonable and necessary because of the individual’s disability. Such an accommodation request must be considered during any stage in the provision of a program, including at intake, during services, and during discharge proceedings. When a reasonable accommodation request is made, the program supervisor may request verification of the individual’s disability.
f. The Contractor is required to develop a written policy for their process for reasonable accommodations within 30 days of the award of this contract. This will include:
| (1) | All requests for reasonable accommodation |
| (2) | Details of all steps taken to accommodate a Veteran’s request for reasonable accommodation |
| (3) | Any explanation for denial of services and/or accommodation |
| (4) | any appropriate referrals to Veterans who are denied accommodation. |
All explanations are to be written on formal letterhead from program management to the Veteran and Liaison at the time of denial for services or accommodation. Contractor will be aware that violation of the ADA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Fair Housing Laws may result in stopping admissions and/or termination of contract for convenience.
8. ADDITIONAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS:
| a. | The Contractor shall comply with the VA patient’s Bill of Rights as set forth in Section 17.34a, Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations. The Contractor is responsible for maintaining Veterans’ privacy and confidentiality and must have systems in place that protect Veteran’s personal identifying information and protected health information. This includes but is not limited to the following: having adequate private office space for Veterans to meet in confidence with their case manager; having secured paper and electronic filing systems to protect clients’ case records and other documentation; conducting ongoing training of staff about maintaining client privacy and confidentiality in all verbal and written communications and interactions; and ensuring that non-clinical/non-case management facility staff have access to Veteran information only as needed in order to meet the service requirements contained in the contract. |
| b. | The CERS Contractor shall have the ability to accommodate immediate admissions 24 hours per day, seven (7) days per week. If unable to verify during off tour hours, homeless person should be accepted conditionally. Within 48 business hours, VA clinical staff will meet with newly admitted individual and assess for eligibility and safety issues. If safety issues arise before assessment, decision to exit individual based on safety concerns will be deferred to contract agency staff. VA staff have right of approval/disapproval for payment for non-approved admissions and non-verified Veterans. |
| c. | The Contractor shall comply with the principles listed in 38 CFR 17.707(b) to provide housing and supportive services in a manner that is free from religious discrimination. |
| CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES: The Contractor shall provide, at minimum, the following case management services to Veterans in the program: |
(1) Engagement of the Veteran in the service planning process. Contractor will carry responsibility for interviewing, counseling and case managing identified Veterans by conducting psychosocial assessments to identify treatment needs which affect the Veterans’ adjustment to their environment.
(2) Contractor will assess the psychosocial and environmental needs or dysfunction secondary to or exacerbating the social, substance or psychiatric problems, which might contribute to Veterans’ readjustment challenges in the community. Contractor establishes and maintains an intensive therapeutic relationship with the Veteran, staff, and community programs/agencies, and is responsible for formulating case-management treatment goals with the primary goal being to obtain stable housing and plans that address identified needs, stressors and problems.
(3) Contractor will conduct high-risk screening, psychosocial assessment, and treatment planning, actively involving the Veteran and their family or significant others, in coordination with the team members. Psychosocial assessments will include goals for clinical treatment. Contractor coordinates and documents clinical case management and psychosocial services and documents the overall effectiveness of the case management services provided. Specifically, Contractor will:
(a) Develop a highly Individualized Service Plan (ISP) with the Veteran consistent with low demand program goals; the plan must specifically include provisions for Veteran placement into an appropriate transitional or permanent housing placement within 30-60 days of admission to the HCHV Contract Residential Care facility with no more than 120 days without a planned reason for extension. The housing placement planning must consider all appropriate and available community-based housing options as well as the Veteran’s preferences regarding location and housing type. The plan should also be focused on getting the Veteran(s) to accept services, especially mental health and substance use services that will allow attainment of transitional or permanent housing. Acceptance of the services offered should not be a condition of continued stay in CERS.
(b) Complete a written ISP within the first two 7 days of program admission and signed by the Contractor, the Veteran, and the VA Liaison.
| (c) | Review ISP a minimum every thirty (30) days thereafter in a clinical meeting with the Veteran. Updated plans must by communicated to the VA Liaison within 3 business days. |
| (d) | Make changes in plans in consultation with the Veteran at weekly case management meetings. Weekly case management meetings with Veterans will focus on the objectives and tasks in the ISP. Contracted case manager will provide Veteran with a written copy of their weekly tasks. |
(e) Screen each Veteran for suicidal and homicidal risk with each contact. This screening must be documented in regular progress notes in the Contractor’s clinical service records. If the Veteran is a danger to him/herself or others Contractor will take immediate steps to provide appropriate intervention. Contractor will notify the VA same day or next business day (if after hours) of any Veteran suicidal or homicidal risk.
(4) Contractor will conduct weekly case conferencing with Contractor clinical Director, Contractor Case Managers, and VA Liaison, and with other VA Homeless and Contractor staff as necessary. Contractor will coordinate with VA Liaison during weekly case conferences regarding updates and changes in Veterans’ care plans to foster a collaborative relationship with the VAMC and Contractor in meeting Veterans’ needs. Case conferencing may be done in person, by telephone, or through video conference calls as determined by VA staff.
(5) Contractor will obtain relevant Releases of Information to communicate and coordinate Veterans’ treatment with VA and other community-based service providers.
(6) Contractor will work in close collaboration with the VA Liaison to ensure Veterans’ connections to needed VA medical, mental health, and substance abuse treatment and care.
(7) Contractor will take primary responsibility for assisting Veterans in completing housing applications and other benefits paperwork as needed. Contractor will assist Veterans in obtaining the needed documentation required for complete applications including but not limited to, birth certificates, state ID, income verification, and any additional information required by housing resources and potential income supports.
(8) Contractor will provide transportation for Veterans to attend appointments at the VA, potential housing placements, benefits agencies, meetings with landlords, etc. Contractor will attend meetings with Veterans when appropriate according to Veteran’s needs.
| (9) | The Contractor will provide onsite therapeutic and rehabilitative services including: | |
| (a) | Health and personal hygiene maintenance | |
| (b) | Supportive social services, in collaboration with the VA and other involved community resources | |
| (c) | Opportunities for immediate learning and/or development of responsible living with a goal of achieving a more adaptive level of psychosocial functioning |
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