S02.36C24826Q0663.docx

36C24826Q0663

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

573-26-2-774-0057

05-05-2026

VICTOR J MERCADO

352-214-6492 05-22-2026

12:00PM

EDT

36C248 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 8

1601 S.W Archer Road Gainesville FL 32608-1197

X

485991 $19 Million

N/A

36C573 Department of Veterans Affairs Lake City VAMC 619 S. Marion Street

Lake City FL 32601-3460 36C248 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 8 (NCO 8)

1601 S.W. Archer Road Gainesville FL 32608-1197

Financial Services Center

P.O. Box 149971 Austin TX 78714-9971

See CONTINUATION Page Wheelchair and Stretcher Transportation Services

SEE B.2 Price/Cost Schedule

See CONTINUATION Page x x x

Victor J. Mercado

Table of Contents

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: Victor J. Mercado, Contracting Officer 36C248

Network Contracting Office 8

1601 S.W Archer Road Gainesville FL 32608-1197

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

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

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:

Section B Items:

INVOICES:

a) Invoices shall be submitted weekly in arrears in accordance with: 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV 2018)

b) Payments shall be made in arrears upon receipt of a properly prepared invoice.

c) In order to comply with the Improper Payment Elimination and Recovery Act of 2010 (IPERA), the VA has mandated electronic invoice submission to the Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center (VAFSC). VAFSC has partnered with Tungsten Network e-Invoicing network, for submissions of all electronic invoices to VA. Tungsten Network electronic invoicing is free to all VA vendors. In order to submit electronic invoices, all VA vendors must register with Tungsten Network by submitting an email to VA.Registration@Tungsten-Network.com or calling 1-877-752-0900 option 2 for Enrollment.

d) Contractor shall submit an electronic invoice weekly in arrears to the Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center (VAFSC) e-Invoice through the website at https://portal.Tungsten-Network.com/Login.aspx. For questions regarding the submission of VA electronic invoices, Tungsten Network customer service may be contacted at 1-877-489-6135.

e) All invoices shall reference the vendor name and address, customer name, contract number, appropriate obligation/funding order number, description of services provided, quantity, unit price, and total invoice amount (any additional info). Invoices shall also include any payment discount terms.

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS (See SF1449 Block 18):

a. All invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV 2018)

b. Facsimile, e-mail, and scanned documents are not acceptable forms of submission for payment requests.

c. VA’s Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment System – The Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center (VAFSC) uses a third-party contractor, Tungsten Network e-Invoice, to transition vendors from paper to electronic invoice submission. Please go to this website: http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer-campaigns/veterans-affairs-us/ to begin submitting electronic invoices, free of charge.

d. As of July 1, 2020, the VA10091 form has been eliminated and the VAFSC is requiring our vendors to update and add their information in the Customer Engagement Portal (CEP) at https://www.cep.fsc.va.gov/. This is for new vendors being added to FMS only.

e. For assistance setting up e-Invoice, the below information is provided:

i. * Tungsten Network e-Invoice Setup Information: 1-877-489-6135 * Tungsten Network e-Invoice email: VA.Registration@Tungsten-Network.com * FSC e-Invoice Contact Information: 1-877-353-9791 * FSC e-invoice email: vafsccshd@va.gov

FUTURE VET RIDE INVOICE PROCEDURES

Upon notification for the Contracting Officer, the vendor must receive training and begin implementation of invoices via Vet Ride within 30 days.

f) Invoices must be submitted via the electronic HCFA 1500 in the VetRide Third-Party Portal or other VA approved software. These invoices shall not include patient information, but shall include the following:

· Contractor Name

· Contract Number

· Current Purchase Order Number

· Date of service

· Total amount invoiced including a summary of the total number of charges that align with the line items of this contract (ie. total number of BLS Base Rate, total BLS Mileage incurred, etc.)

· An itemized list of charges or services rendered that align with the line items of this contract (ie. BLS Base Rate, BLS Mileage incurred, etc.)

Additionally, a copy of the invoice along with secondary documentation shall be provided to the COR. This may be delivered via fax, email, or hand carried. The secondary documentation must include the following information:

· Contractor name and telephone number for billing questions

· Contract Number

· Current Purchase Order Number

· Dates of service

· Name of the patient

· Date and time of pick-up/drop-off

· Address for pick-up/drop-off

· Daily itemized listing of transports and charges that align with the line items of this contract. List shall include patient’s name, the last four digits of the SSN, date of transport, and pick‐up/drop‐off points.

· Total amount invoiced including a summary of the total number of charges that align with the line items of this contract (i.e., total number of BLS Base Rate, total BLS Mileage incurred, etc.)

Payment by VA under this contract to a provider of air ambulance transportation services authorized under this contract extinguishes any and all liability on the part of the VA BENEFICIARY for that transportation service. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE VA BENEFICIARIES, THIRD PARTY INSURANCES, MEDICARE OR MEDICAID TO BE BILLED FOR THE SERVICES PERFORMED UNDER THIS CONTRACT.

1. Purpose: The Lake City VA Medical Center (hereafter LCVAMC), the Northern Region of North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS) its associated Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs), and affiliated healthcare clinics require contracted nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher transportation services. The contractor shall provide all vehicles, personnel, management, supplies, equipment, and necessary reporting for the provision of nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher transportation services. The contractor shall make these nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher transportation services available to the VA as needed, 24 hours a day, seven days a week (24/7), including weekends and holidays.

2. Background: The LCVAMC main campus is located at 619 South Marion Avenue, Lake City, Florida 32025, serving over 85,000 veterans, primarily within the Northern Region of the NF/SG Veterans Healthcare System and it’s 15 Community-Based Outpatient Clinics. The hospital has 540 inpatient beds and the nursing home has 240 inpatient beds and sees approximately 7100 -inpatient admissions and 142,000 outpatient visits a year. Veterans served within this facility live within the following counties and zip codes.

Alachua, FL 32608,32607,32605,32606,32601,32609,32653,32615,32641,32618.32669.32640.32643.32603.32666.32667,32694,32622,32611,32610,32631,32613,32627,32633,32635,32655,32654,32658,32662,32602,32604,32612,32614,32616 Baker, FL 32040, 32063, 32072,32087 Calhoun, FL 32466,32424,32421,32438,32430,32449 Columbia, FL 32025.32024.32055.32643.32038.32087.32096.32061,32056 Dixie, FL 32628,32648,32680,32692

Franklin, FL 32456,32465,32322,32328,32320,32358,32346,32323,32329 Gadsden, FL 32351,32333,32352,32324,32343,32332,32330,32353 Gulf, FL 32456,32465,32457 Hamilton, FL 32052,32053,32096 Jackson, FL 32446,32448,32440,32431,32460,32442.32443,32420,32423,32445,32426,32432,32447

Jefferson, FL 32344,32331,32336,32337,32345,32361 Lafayette, FL 32066,32008,32356,32013 Leon, FL 32303,32304,32301,32309,32312,32308,32311,32305,32302,32306,32307,32310, Liberty, FL 32321,32358,32334,32335,32360 Madison, FL 32340,32331,32059,32350,32341,32336

Nassau, FL 32034,32097,32011,32046,32009,32035,32041 Suwannee, FL 32060,32024,32064,32008,32071,32094,32062,32096 Taylor, FL 32323,32327,32348,32350,32351 Union, Fl 32054,32083,32697 Wakulla, FL 32327,32358,32346,32326,32355

Atkinson, GA 31624,31642,31650

Berrien, GA 31622,31637,31639, 31645,31749,31794 Brantley, GA 31542,31543,31553,31566 Brooks, GA 31602,31643,31626,31778,31625,31629,31638,31720 Camden, GA 31558,31548,31569,31565,31568,31547

Charlton, GA 31537,31562,31646 Clinch, GA 31635,31642,31634,31631,31649,31630,31623 Colquitt, GA 31753,31756,31768,31771,31788,31744,31637,31738,31765,31775,31747,31776,31722 Cook, GA 31620,31627,31637,31647 Decatur, GA 39819,39817,39834,39825,39815,39818,39852

Echols, GA 31636,31631,31630,31648 Grady, GA 31792,39828,31779,31773,39897,39829,39827 Lanier, GA 31635,31641,31649

Lowndes, GA 31602,31601,31605,31632,31636,31645,31606,31641,31699,31603,31604,31698 Miller, GA 39845,39837,39841

Mitchell, GA 31705,31730,31779,31716,31765,31784,31739 Pierce, GA 31516,31510,31557,31551,31518,31556 Seminole, GA 39701,39702,39703

Thomas, GA 31792,31757,31773,31626,31738,31765,31778,31720,31758,31799 Ware, GA 31503,31501,31554,31631,31552,31550,31502,31564

3. Acronyms AOD – Administrative Officers of the Day CO – Contracting Officer COR – Contracting Officer’s Representative DOL – Department of Labor IAW – In Accordance With OO – Ordering Officer PWS – Performance Work Statement QASP – Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan QC – Quality Control Plan TB – Tuberculosis TJC – The Joint Commission VTS – Veteran Transportation Service

4. Scope/Requirements

4.1. Types of Nonemergent Wheelchair and stretcher Transportation Service

4.1.1. The contractor shall provide Nonemergent Wheelchair and stretcher Transportation Service as-needed basis in accordance with all federal, state, and local regulations.

4.1.2. Occasionally a veteran will need to be transported with VA staff and equipment; the contractor shall return VA Staff and equipment to the original place of pick-up.

4.2. Transport of Miscellaneous Items with the Patient

The Contractor may also be required to transport patient luggage, medical records, medication, and comfort items from pickup points to destination at no additional cost to the Government. Luggage to be transported will be restricted to suitcase and valise types. When patients are transported to the LCVAMC, destination is deemed to be the ER, Admissions, the clinic, or service within the hospital, or directly to the ward as instructed by VA Staff.

4.3. Contractor Personnel: Contractor personnel shall be courteous and always conduct themselves in a businesslike manner while providing services under this contract.

4.3.1. Nonemergent Wheelchair and stretcher Transport Drivers & Other Personnel

4.3.1.1. Nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher van transport drivers shall at all times meet the qualifications specified in this contract as well as all applicable federal, state, and local government laws, regulations, and standards.

4.3.1.2. If the contractor wishes to add or replace personnel throughout the life of the contract, it shall provide evidence of required training, certifications, licensing, and any other qualifications to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) for review.

4.3.1.3. All wheelchair and stretcher transport drivers shall have a valid driver’s license in accordance with state requirements for their place of operation and the services they perform. If the contractor wishes to add or replace drivers throughout the life of the contract, it shall provide a valid driver’s license to the COR.

4.3.1.4. Investigative Requirements for Contract Personnel: Contract personnel will be subject to the same investigative requirements as those for regular VA appointees and employees. The level of investigation commensurate with the level of access to perform the performance work statement is: Special Agreement Checks (SAC). Fingerprinting for contract personnel will be conducted at LCVAMC. Thereafter the contracted employees will be subject annually to the same requirement, with a 90-day window to complete such requirements as provided by LCVAMC and North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS). The VA Security and Investigation Center (SIC) is responsible for adjudicating all background investigations for contract employees.

4.3.2. Tuberculosis Exposure Control Policy

4.3.2.1. The contractor shall provide the VA with a policy on tuberculosis (TB) exposure and control, to include TB decontamination.

4.3.2.2. The contractor shall have its personnel tested for TB in accordance with state guidelines and provide written confirmation to the COR that all personnel (current employees and any new hires) performing services under this contract are current in their TB test by at the start of each Ordering Period.

4.4. Contractor Equipment, Vehicles, and Inspection

4.4.1. Wheelchair and stretcher vans shall meet all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and specifications, including but not limited to licensing, registration, and safety standards.

4.4.2. Wheelchair and stretcher vans shall be of model and make to ensure safe and comfortable transportation of Veterans (ample headroom must be available for Veterans transported in standard wheelchair and stretchers). Any type or style offering complete Veteran safety within the vehicle will be acceptable. Those considered lacking in this essential requirement will not be used for Veteran transport under this contract. Any replacement will be at the Contractor's expense.

4.4.3. The VA reserves the right to inspect the contractor’s equipment and vehicles or require documentation of compliance with state laws, rules, regulations, and guidelines governing emergency medical transport vehicles (ambulances). VA inspections of contractor equipment do not constitute a warranty or guarantee that the contractor’s vehicles and equipment are properly maintained. The VA reserves the right to restrict the contractor’s use of equipment and vehicles in the performance of this contract which are not in compliance with contract requirements. The restriction of such equipment and vehicles shall not relieve the contractor from performance in accordance with the contract nor necessitate additional cost to the VA.

4.4.4. Each vehicle must be equipped with general use first aid kit.

4.4.5. Vehicles shall be clean and maintained in good repair in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

4.4.6. The contractor shall not be permitted to borrow medical equipment from the LCVAMC or North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS facilities. Contractor shall at no time and under any circumstances exchange supplies, equipment and/or medications with VA. The prices quoted in Schedule shall be inclusive of consumables used in transport.

4.4.7. Contractor shall always have a wheelchair and stretcher available for transport of Veterans from pickup point to delivery point. When the Veteran is delivered to a destination other than the Department of Veterans Affairs and return trip is ordered for the same day, the Veteran will transfer from the contractor's wheelchair and stretcher to a facility owned wheelchair and stretcher.

4.4.8. The contractor shall furnish qualified personnel as required by contract specifications to accomplish all services under this contract.

4.4.8.1. The contractor personnel performing services for the VA, shall, at all times, conduct themselves in a professional manner, and be identified by having the company name, and employee name affixed to the uniform. The Contractor shall be responsible for furnishing all vehicles, uniforms, nametags and/or badges for performance of services under this contract. Employee identifications shall be worn in clear view above the waist. The contractor personnel shall not smoke/play loud music originating from any device in vehicles while transporting VA patients.

4.4.8.2. Each driver shall possess a driver’s license that is valid for the class of vehicle driven. Evidence of a special transportation service vehicle permit, or endorsement issued by the commissioner of public safety.

· Be at least 18 years of age and have not less than one year of experience as a licensed driver; and

· For the past three years:

· Have not had a driver’s license canceled or suspended.

· Have a driving record clear of convictions for operating a motor vehicle or motorcycle without insurance.

· Have a driving record clear of convictions for driving a motor vehicle without a valid current license for the class of vehicle driven

· Have a driving and criminal record clear of convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.

4.4.8.3. Responsibilities for Veteran safety will include the availability and appropriate use of Veteran restraining devices in each transport vehicle. The Contractor staff will adequately restrain the Veteran through every phase and during each movement to prevent injury to the Veteran. The need for additional staff to manage the Veteran in transport will be established before initiating the transport.

4.4.8.4. The driver will (within safety and reason) observe the Veteran during transport. Any indication of significant change in condition (i.e. sudden onset of rapid or labored respirations, complaints of chest pains) will be immediately communicated to the Medical Center Admitting office. Depending on the condition of the Veteran, the Veteran will be returned to the Admitting Office, transported to the nearest emergency room or advanced life support called.

4.4.8.5. Wheelchair and stretcher van drivers shall have a valid driver’s license, in accordance with Federal, State, and local government requirements for their place of operation for the services they perform, be capable of administering oxygen and shall have successfully completed the standard and advanced first aid course of the American Red Cross of U.S. Bureaus of Mines of equivalent and be capable of providing necessary medical assistance to the attending emergency medical technician or paramedic.

4.5. Transportation Request

4.5.1 VetRide or VA-approved Transportation Software Utilization:

The contractor agrees to utilize the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-Approved Transportation Software with every patient transported under this contract.

Department of Veteran Affairs will provide the software and access to the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-Approved Transportation Software for the vendor/contractor in this contract. The Contractor will utilize the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-Approved Transportation Software fully as instructed:

a) Receive and respond to electronic trip requests

b) Receive, use, and ensure the use of the Vendor pass by the driver.

c) Submit claims via the electronic HCFA 1500 in the VetRide Vendor Portal or VA-Approved Transportation Software system.

d) All invoices must be submitted within 30 calendar days of date of service in accordance with 38 CFR 70 to be considered timely submission.

i. The contractor’s invoice must be on the HCFA 1500 to include:

ii. Contract Number

iii. Date of Service (to include Box 24 A-J)

iv. Authorization number(s)

v. Pick-up and drop-off location of the patient

vi. Base Rate

vii. Name (Last, First and Middle Initial (if any)) and Full Social Security number (Box 1a) of patient transported

viii. Date of Birth and Sex

ix. Diagnosis Codes or Nature of Illness or Injury

x. Documentation of circumstances when billing for waiting time

xi. Any miscellaneous charges for which the contractor is expecting reimbursement i.e., Tool charges, waiting time, etc.

xii. VA authorizing official’s name

xiii. Healthcare Procedure Coding System/National Level II (HCPCS)

e) Unloaded Mileage “The Contractor shall only invoice for loaded miles, defined as mileage when the patient is on board the vehicle. Unloaded (deadhead) miles, including travel to the pickup location or return travel after drop-off, are not billable and will not be reimbursed.

f) Mileage Determination Mileage shall be calculated based on the shortest driving distance between the Veteran’s address and the Lake City VA Medical Center located at: 619 S Marion Ave, Lake City, FL 32025

The applicable one-way mileage band rate tiers are defined as:

1) 0-50 miles No paid mileage

2) 51-100 miles

3) 101+ miles

f) Unauthorized charges will be reviewed by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) as to the validity of the charges and as to whether the payment will be made. A final determination will be made within 30 days after notifying the Contractor of the charges, which are being suspended.

4.5.1.1. A transportation request is defined as one incidence of a request for one-way service wheelchair and stretcher van transport. No more than one patient will be transported per order unless approved by an authorized VA staff. Transportation requests will be made through VetRide or VA-Approved Transportation Software Utilization. Contractors must have the capability to receive orders, update ride status, and input trip costs and other required data through this portal. Contractors must have dedicated staff available to monitor this portal 24/7. North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS) Travel Program Staff will be available to assist with account setup and training for the Contractor’s Staff. In the event VetRide or other VA-Approved Transportation Software Utilization is down, other methods of communication (i.e., telephone, facsimile) will be used to place Transportation requests.

4.5.1.1.1. North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS) Travel Program Staff/or authorized VA employees will work with the Contractor the following business day to reconcile any transportation requests that were placed outside of VetRide or VA-Approved Transportation Software Utilization.

4.5.1.1.2. The Contractor must update VetRide or VA-Approved Transportation Software Utilization with any data and/or notes in real time that deviate from the original order such as invoicing for additional mileage due to a road closure, wait time, reason for no load, etc. North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS) Travel Program Staff/or authorized VA employees may place a “hold” on payment of this order until it has been reconciled.

4.5.1.2. Only the following VA staff are authorized to place, cancel, or make changes to transportation requests:

Contracting Officer (CO) Ordering Officers (OO) Administrative Officer of the Day (AOD) Beneficiary Travel Office Staff Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR)

The Contracting Officer will furnish the Contractor with the names of individuals above, who are authorized as Ordering Officers, by separate memorandum upon issuance of the contract. The Contracting Officer will update this list throughout the life of the contract as Ordering Officers change.

Ordering Officers are responsible for issuing and administering orders placed under this contract. Ordering Officers have no authority to modify any term of this basic contract. Any deviation from the terms of the basic contract must be approved in writing by the Contracting Officer responsible for this contract. The Contractor shall accept orders against this contract only from the Contracting Officer and/or authorized ordering officers. Fulfilling orders from persons other than the Contracting Officer or ordering officer may result in loss or delay in payment for supplies/services provided under such orders.

Non-authorized VA employees and private agencies (e.g., nursing homes) are not considered authorized to place transportation requests.

4.5.1.2.1. All patient pick-up(s) and drop-off(s) shall be authorized via “orders” which shall only be issued by the designated Ordering Officers. When placing orders for services, the Ordering Officer shall contact the designated contractor point of contact(s) to provide the following information:

· Mode of transportation required,

· Required time of arrival

· Name of the beneficiary,

· Pick-up and delivery point,

· Type and number of additional medical care specialists required,

· Type of equipment required,

· Last four of the patient's Social Security Number, and

· Any other special instructions

4.5.1.3. For ALL Transports – an Audit system will be put in place by the VA to include the COR or designee, Beneficiary Travel Department staff, and clinical staff to ensure appropriateness of the order and timeliness of the response.

4.5.1.4. The VA may authorize an escort (e.g., spouse, relative, guardian, etc.) to accompany the patient during medical transport if it is practicable and, in the patient’s, best interest. The contractor shall allow the escort to accompany the patient at no additional cost.

4.5.1.5. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing all vehicles and manpower, necessary to meet all wheelchair and stretcher van transport requirements of this contract. The Contractor will be authorized to utilize another company, as a subcontractor (certified to be within all requirements of this contract) to complete these transportation requests. All bills for this subcontractor service will be paid directly to the Contractor at the contract rate, and the Contractor shall reimburse the subcontractor at their agreed to rate. In the event, the Contractor is unable to perform services or have services performed as required, the Contractor shall immediately notify the VA Travel Section and provide a justification for non-performance. The VA reserves the right to re-procure services, which cannot be performed by the Contractor, in accordance w i t h the terms, conditions, and schedule of this contract. The Contractor shall indemnify the VA for excess re-procurement cost, which may result from the Contractor's inability to perform the required service. Payment of re-procurement costs shall not relieve the Contractor from any other provision in this contract covering inspection, acceptance and deductions from payment. The VA will be the sole judge in determining when services will be re-procured. The failure of the contractor to perform services within the required time frames and in accordance with terms and conditions may also provide cause for termination of the contract for "cause," (see FAR clause 52.212-4(m)).

4.5.1.6. The patient may bring with her or him up to three (3) liters of oxygen. The contractor shall be responsible for providing adequate and safe storage of the oxygen tanks during transport.

4.5.1.7. Response Times*

4.5.1.7.1. Orders that are scheduled by 7pm local time the day before the required services are defined as scheduled in advance. With the exceptions found below, the contractor shall arrive on time for all orders scheduled in advance.

4.5.1.7.2. For all add-ons (not scheduled in advance) transportation requests, with pick up at the LCVAMC and other North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS) facilities. The contractor will be allotted up to a thirty (30) minute response time from time of order placement for transportation requests that are not previously scheduled in advance.

4.5.1.7.3. For transportation requests which do not have a pick-up at the LCVAMC and other North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SG VHS facilities.

a. The contractor may be required, if requested by the VA, to dispatch wheelchair and stretcher van(s) on short notice for transportation requests not scheduled in advance; for these transportation requests the contractor shall dispatch wheelchair and stretcher van(s) within thirty (30) minutes of receiving the order.

b. Pick-up appointment times shall be set by the VA unless agreed upon by the VA and contractor at time of order placement and be reasonable based upon travel distance, speed limits, and weather conditions.

c. The contractor’s patient pick-up time cannot be more than 15 minutes prior to the schedule pickup time nor 15 minutes later than the scheduled pickup time for transportation requests scheduled in advance.

* The contractor shall not be held liable for nonperformance caused by an occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the contractor and without its fault or negligence such as, acts of God or the public enemy, acts of the Government in its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, and unusually severe weather. The contractor MUST notify the VA with as much advance notice as possible should any of these occur.

4.5.2. Cancellations

4.5.2.1. For trips in which the contractor is notified of cancellation before the vehicle is dispatched, there shall be no charge to the Government.

4.5.2.1a. A “no show” is defined as a transportation request which is cancelled after the contractor has dispatched a vehicle, the vehicle is enroute, or has arrived at the pick-up location, and there is no longer a requirement for patient transportation. If a previously scheduled trip is cancelled by the VA at least one (1) hour prior to the scheduled pickup time, no charges shall be billed to the Government.

2. If a previously scheduled trip is cancelled by the VA less than one (1) hour prior to the scheduled pickup time, the Contractor shall receive 100% of the completed pick-up charge as provided in the schedule.

4.5.2.1.1. The contractor may request one-way reimbursement for no-shows. No-show reimbursement shall be based upon the base rate for nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher transport, and the one-way mileage accrued enroute to the pick-up location at time of cancellation. Mileage for no- show cancellations shall be confirmed by the contractor and reported to the VA as soon as possible from time of cancellation.

4.5.2.2. For transportation requests OUT of Lake City VAMC ONLY – The contractor will immediately dispatch a vehicle upon receipt of the order (including transportation requests in which the final destination may change prior to pick up due to the critical condition of the patient). When the contractor is notified of a cancellation prior to arrival at the Lake City VAMC campus, there shall be no charge to the Government.

4.6. Pick-Up/Drop-Off/Reporting Procedures

4.6.1. The Veteran will be delivered to and picked up from the assigned appointment location. (For example, the (facility name) Medical Center nursing station on wards or units, clinics, private home or community nursing home.)

4.6.2. All Veterans will be checked in and out with the appropriate administrative staff. Veterans must be checked in by their appointment time and picked up in a timely fashion after their schedule appointment.

4.7. Patient Welfare

4.7.1. The contractor shall be responsible for the patient’s welfare during transport. The contractor shall be held responsible for patient and/or VA property during transport. Any damaged or lost wheelchair and stretchers, walkers, crutches, or personal belongings shall be replaced at the contractor’s expense.

4.7.2. The VA requires the contractor to exercise extreme caution and care in the handling of patients.

4.7.3. If a VA beneficiary being transported declines to be properly secured or removed the securement devices himself/herself, the driver will notify the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) of this fact prior to departure. The contractor is not required to transport any VA beneficiary who refuses to be properly secured while being transported. In the event that the beneficiary refuses to be properly secured, they shall be returned back into the building which they came from.

4.8. Incident Reporting

4.8.1. The contractor shall notify the COR, Requestor, Program Manager, Beneficiary Travel Department, of any accidents and/or safety problems that occur while the patient is being transported. This notification shall occur within one (1) hour by telephone and/or. A written report of the incident shall be delivered to the COR, Program Manager, or Beneficiary Travel Department, by the close of business of the next working day.

4.8.2. The COR will monitor the service provided. The contractor shall cooperate with the COR in providing information and answering questions in a timely manner. The contractor shall promptly inform the COR of any complaints received directly from patients. If warranted, the VA may conduct incident investigations and require written response from the contractor within 48 hours of request.

4.9. Invoicing

4.9.1. Each transport shall include thirty (30) minutes of waiting time; the contractor may invoice for wait times in excess of this initial thirty (30) minutes. Wait time shall begin only once the contractor has reached the pick-up address location, and notification to the veteran and/or travel staff of arrival, and the appointment time has elapsed. All wait times shall be itemized and invoiced in fifteen (15) minute intervals. For partial fifteen (15) minute intervals, zero (0) to seven (7) minutes shall be rounded down to zero (0) minutes and eight (8) to fifteen (15) minutes rounded up to fifteen (15) minutes.

4.9.2. When invoicing for mileage, the contractor shall round to the nearest mile. Mileage ending in .5 or higher shall be rounded up to the nearest mile. Mileage ending in .4 or lower shall be rounded down to the nearest mile. Payment for mileage to or from the point of care shall be limited to the VA’s calculation according to the VA’s Bing Maps API determination. Bing Maps API is optimized to determine mileage based on the shortest time of travel.

4.9.3. Long Distance Mileage — Payment for mileage outside the contract miles covered in the base rate, shall be at the mileage rate stated in the price schedule, and shall be based upon the miles from the pick-up point and the specified destination. Any mileage from the place of business and/or location of vehicle and the pick-up point, or from the delivery destination back to the place of business and/or location of next trip are not considered as a separate item of this reimbursement but would be expected to be incorporated into the mileage rate as part of the administrative costs (or costs of doing business).

4.9.4. Upon notification of the contracting officer, the vendor must receive training and begin implementation of invoices via VetRide within 30 days versus VA Tungsten Network e-Invoicing network. Invoices must be submitted via the electronic HCFA 1500 in the VetRide Vendor Portal or other VA approved software. These invoices shall not include patient information, but shall include the following:

· Contractor Name

· Contract Number

· Current Purchase Order Number

· Date of service

· Total amount invoiced including a summary of the total number of charges that align with the line items of this contract (i.e., total number of Nonemergent Wheelchair and stretcher Base Rate, total mileage incurred in excess of the base rate, etc.)

· An itemized list of charges or services rendered that align with the line items of this contract (i.e., Nonemergent Wheelchair and stretcher Base Rate, Mileage incurred outside the base rate, etc.)

Payment by VA under this contract to a provider of nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher transportation services authorized under this contract extinguishes any and all liability on the part of the VA BENEFICIARY for that transportation service. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE VA BENEFICIARIES, THIRD PARTY INSURANCES, MEDICARE, OR MEDICAID TO BE BILLED FOR THE SERVICES PERFORMED UNDER THIS CONTRACT.

5. Period & Place of Performance

5.1. This contract’s ordering period shall be effective from Date of Award through Date: 7/31/27

5.2. The Place of Performance is variable and may occur within the states of Florida; Georgia nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher transportation services may be required to or from locations including, but not limited to the following:

5.2.1. North Florida/South Georgia to include specific Atrium Clinics, Emergency Department, pavilions, or out-buildings on North Florida/South Georgia facilities, and VA approved Non-VA Contracted Nursing Homes and other approved facilities.

5.2.2. North Florida/South Georgia Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs):

Sergeant Ernest I “Boots” Thomas OPC

2181 East Orange Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32311

5.2.3. Other VA Medical Centers, Hospitals, or CBOCs within Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 8 including, but not limited to:

Tampa, FL 33612

FL 32827

Pines, FL 33744-8200

33125

Beach, FL 33410

5.2.4. Other Non-VA Medical facilities and Community Care facilities as authorized by the VA.

5.2.5. Veteran’s residence.

5.2.6. Local airports including but not limited to:

Local airports: including Jacksonville International Airport, Tallahassee International Airport, _Valdosta regional Airport, Gainesville regional Airport, Orlando International Airport, Ocala International Airport, Lake City Gateway Airport, Northeast Florida Regional, St. Augustine, FL, Orlando Stanford International, _Leesburg International and Tampa International Airport

6. Quality Control Plan

6.1. Quality Control

6.1.1. The contractor shall maintain a Quality Control Plan (QCP) that contains, at a minimum, the following:

6.1.1.1. A description of the company’s organizational structure including a description of the roles and responsibilities of management and supervisors.

6.1.1.2. A description of the methods to be used by the contractor for identifying and preventing deficiencies or problems in the quality of service.

6.1.1.3. A description of the specific steps the contractor will take for corrective action if needed if a deficiency or problem in the quality of service occurs.

6.1.1.4. A description of the company’s records and tracking system used to identify up-to- date background checks, applicable certifications and tests, and training of each employee performing services under this contract.

6.1.1.5. A description of the method used to provide on-time nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher transportation services to meet the requirements of this contract (24/7 availability).

6.1.1.6. A description of the methods used to identify and prevent radio communication breakdowns and a detailed procedure for alternative communications in the event of electronic and mechanical breakdown of vehicle two-way radios.

6.1.1.7. CONTENGENCY PLAN: (In case VetRide Vendor Portal is down) A description of the method/system used to log all requests for service. The contractor shall confirm that the log indicates the date and time of service call, actual time of pick-up versus the scheduled time, name of patient requiring services, designated pick-up and delivery points, mileage, and actual waiting time at pick-up and delivery points if waiting charges are claimed. The contractor shall confirm the log will be sent to the COR monthly.

6.1.2. The Government will evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract to ensure that the contractor’s QCP is adequate, and that quality is achieved through a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

6.1.3. The Government shall prepare a QASP after contract award derived from the PWS and contractor’s submitted quality control plan. The QASP is a “living document” and the Government may review and revise it at any time. However, the Government shall coordinate changes to the QASP with the contractor.

6.1.4. The QASP will specify the work requiring surveillance and the Government’s method of surveillance.

6.2. Minimum Performance Standards

6.2.1. The contractor shall maintain performance standards in accordance with the standards outlined in the table below. Failure to meet the Acceptable Quality Levels (AQL) may result in termination of the contract.

6.2.2. The QASP will include the standards below as well as others derived from the successful offeror’s quality control plan.

Reference

Provide on- time nonemergent wheelchair and stretcher van services

orders

of monthly invoices/reports

7. COVID-19 Or Other Similar Infectious Diseases

7.1. Contractor shall not refuse transports of COVID-19 positive or other similarly infected patients.

7.2. Contractor shall abide by all additional procedures and precautions that may be implemented by the VA based on VA-issued guidance and/or CDC recommendations. These procedures are subject to change throughout the life of the contract and will be incorporated via attachment (See APPENDIX B VTS Patient Transport PPE and Vehicle Cleaning/Disinfection SOP).

7.3. Contractor shall have written policy of steps they will take to prevent the spread of COVID-19 or other similarly infectious diseases by their employees and/or vehicles. This policy shall, at a minimum, include procedures of screening drivers before each shift, deliberate decontamination of their vehicles and all other preventative precautions taken by Contractor employees.

7.4. Contractor shall furnish all required PPE throughout the life of the contract.

8. Conformity To Regulations

8.1 The contractor and his/her operators shall conform to all Federal, State, and local regulations governing the performance of contracted services.

8.2 VAMC facilities have been designated NO SMOKING areas in their entirety. Individuals found in violation of this no smoking policy may be subject to a $50.00 federal citation for disregarding posted safety rules and regulations. Furthermore, the contractor may be directed to stop work. The contractor is to notify all of his/her employees and/or sub-contractors of this strict enforcement policy.

9. Wage Rates

9.1. Wage Determination(s) as listed in Section D in this solicitation are applicable to any resulting contract.

9.2. The contractor certifies by signature on this offer that the salaries to be paid workers involved in the performance of the contract are equal to or greater than those specified in the attached Wage Determination(s).

9.3 The Department of Labor has held that contractors must pay their employees the Service Contract Act waged while they are driving both to and from destinations for the VA. The WageDetermination is attached in Section D.

10. Evidence of Coverage

10.1 Before commencing work under the contract, the contractor shall furnish the Contracting Officer with a certification from his/her insurance company indication that the coverage outlined in this contract has been obtained and that it may not be changed of canceled during the term of the contract.

11. Worker’s Compensation

11.1 The Act of June 25, 1936, 42 Stat. 1938 (40 USC 290), authorized the constituted authority of the several states to apply their workmen’s compensation laws to all lands and premises owned or held by the United States. The contractor agrees to procure and maintain while the contract is in effect, Worker’s Compensation and Employers Public Liability insurance. The policy shall provide coverage for Public Liability Limits of not less than the statutory limitations for any one accident, and at least meet the statutory limitations if more than one person is involved. , Upon award of the contract, the contractor shall furnish to the Contracting Officer a certificate from its insurance company indicating that this coverage has been obtained and that such coverage may not be changed or canceled unless 30 day advance written notice is provided to the Contracting Officer.

12. Contractor Personnel Security Requirements

12.1…