S02 - RFQ 36C25623Q1573 - Physician Anesthesiologist and CRNA - Houston.pdf

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

36C25623Q1573 08-02-2023

Stephanie Keo 713-791-1414 08-11-2023

15:00 CDT

36C256 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 16 5075 Westheimer Road, Suite 750

Houston TX 77056-5643

X 100

X

561320

$34 Million

N/A

36C580

Department of Veterans Affairs Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center Receiving Warehouse Building 100 2002 Holcombe Boulevard Houston TX 77030-4298

36C256

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 16 5075 Westheimer Road, Suite 750

Houston TX 77056-5643

FSC e-Invoice Payment http://www.fsc.va.gov/fsc/einvoice.asp Invoice Setup Information 1-877-489-6135 Invoice must be submitted electronically

1-877-489-6135 512-460-5429

See CONTINUATION Page

Contractor shall provide onsite Physician Anesthesiologist and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) services at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) located at 2002 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030.

This is a solicitation in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 12 and FAR Part 13/13.5.

NOTIFICATION TO OFFERORS:

Required documents and instructions for quote submission are on page 73 through page 74 - INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS.

This is a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)set aside. Offerors must be VetCert certified at time fquote submission.

See CONTINUATION Page x 1(one)

Stephanie Keo

VA-VHA-RPOC-2023-0081

36C25623Q1573

Table of Contents

SECTION A

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

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

B.3 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

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

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (DEC 2022)

C.2 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

C.3 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000)

C.4 SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

C.5 VAAR 852.211-76 LIQUIDATED DAMAGES – REIMBURSEMENT FOR DATA

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

C.6 VAAR 852.219-73 VA NOTICE OF TOTAL SET-ASIDE FOR CERTIFIED

SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES (JAN 2023)

(DEVIATION)

C.7 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV

2018)

C.8 VAAR 852.242-71 ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRACTING OFFICER (OCT 2020) ... 58

C.9 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.10 VAAR 852.201-70 CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (DEC 2022)

C.11 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT

STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (JUN 2023)

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

See attached document: Attachment D.1 - Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan

(QASP)

See attached document: Attachment D.2 – Wage Determination See attached document: Attachment D.3 - VAAR 852.219-75 VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting – Certificate of Compliance for Services and Construction (Jan 2023) (Deviation) See attached document: Attachment D.4 – Business Associated Agreement (BAA) 68 See attached document: Attachment D.5 - Past Performance References

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

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

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAR 2023)

ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL

PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

ADDENDUM to 52.212-2 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES

E.2 52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS

AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT (NOV 2021)

E.3 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (OCT 2018)

E.4 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

E.5 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

E.7 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

E.9 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—

COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (DEC 2022)

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:

POC: ___________________________

Address: ________________________ Phone: __________________________ Email: ___________________________

SAM UEI Number: _________________

TAX ID: __________________________

b. GOVERNMENT:

Stephanie Keo, Contracting Officer (CO) Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 16 (NCO 16) 5075 Westheimer Road, Suite 750 (90C) Houston, TX 77056 Email: stephanie.keo@va.gov

Jenifer Davis, Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) Department of Veterans Affairs Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) 2002 Holcombe Boulevard Houston, TX 77030 Email: jenifer.davis@va.gov

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

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

AMENDMENT NO DATE

(End of B.1 Contract Administration Data)

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

Place of Performance: Services shall be provided onsite:

MEDVAMC

2002 Holcombe Boulevard Houston, TX 77030

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

1,040.00 HR __________________ __________________

On‐site Anesthesiologist (MD/DO) services in support of MEDVAMC.

Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services

Contract Period: Base (12 months from time of award)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 561320 ‐ Temporary Help Services

PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: Q401 ‐ Medical ‐ Nursing

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) services in support of

MEDVAMC. Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services rendered.

Contract Period: Base Year (12 months from time of award)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

TOTAL FOR BASE __________________

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services

Contract Period: Option Year 1 (12 months from Base Year)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

MEDVAMC. Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services rendered.

Contract Period: Option Year 1 (12 months from Base Year)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

TOTAL FOR OPTION YEAR 1 __________________

DESCRIPTION OF

Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services

Contract Period: Option Year 2 (12 months from Option Year 1)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) services in support of

MEDVAMC. Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services rendered.

Contract Period: Option Year 2 (12 months from Option Year 1)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

TOTAL FOR OPTION YEAR 2 __________________

DESCRIPTION OF

Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services

Contract Period: Option Year 3 (12 months from Option Year 2)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

MEDVAMC. Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services rendered.

Contract Period: Option Year 3 (12 months from Option Year 2)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

TOTAL FOR OPTION YEAR 3 __________________

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services

Contract Period: Option Year 4 (12 months from Option Year 3)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

MEDVAMC. Invoicing and Payment is limited to quantity of hours for services rendered.

Contract Period: Option Year 4 (12 months from Option Year 3)

POP Begin: TBD

POP End: TBD

TOTAL FOR OPTION YEAR 4 __________________

Note: Option year 4 pricing will apply to any extensions exercised in accordance with FAR Clause 52.217-8.

Based Year: $________________ Option Year 1: $________________ Option Year 2: $________________ Option Year 3: $________________ Option Year 4: $________________

Total Estimated Price to Include All Years (Based plus 4): $___________________

(End of B.2 Price/Cost Schedule)

B.3 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

1. SERVICES

1.1. This is a NON-PERSONAL services requirement for one Physician Anesthesiologist one Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) services to provide onsite Anesthesia and perioperative care Services at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) located at 2002 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030. Contractor’s personnel shall perform on-site nurse anesthesia services for varying periods of time and in various areas of MEDVAMC. Contractor’s personnel shall be subject to the quality assurance standards established by the Joint Commission and shall perform in accordance with ethical, professional and technical standards of the healthcare industry consistent with VA policy, regulations, procedures and protocol.

1.2. The parties agree that contract personnel shall not be considered VA employees for any purpose. Only those services specified herein are authorized. Changes to the contract are not authorized unless in writing by the Contracting Officer.

1.3. The contractor shall provide a point of contact to which the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), Anesthesiology care line (ACL) executive, Deputy to ACL executive, Director of Operating room and out of operating room anesthesia, or designee Administrative Supervisor can coordinate and report problems 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. During normal administrative hours, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday excluding holidays, the contractor shall coordinate and report any problems with the COR. The contractor shall report any problems that occur outside normal administrative hours to the Administrative Supervisor.

2. POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ANESTHESIOLOGIST:

2.1. Anesthesiologist: The Anesthesiologist has responsibility for providing the complete range of anesthetic care of patients including preoperative assessment, intraoperative anesthetic administration and monitoring, and post-anesthesia care, in compliance with national Joint Commission accreditation (JCAHO) accreditation standards. The contracted anesthesiologist is accountable to the Chief of Anesthesiology Service, to provide the most effective delivery of anesthetic care for a diverse Veteran population and broad range of situations throughout the medical center while meeting and exceeding compliance standards. Anesthesiologist functions as a cooperative and collegial team member with the entire staff.

2.1.1. Maintain patient confidentiality and a safe patient care environment.

2.1.2. Provide patient centered care by performing the following tasks:

2.1.2.1. General Areas of Responsibility: Performs pre-anesthetic evaluations, collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to prepare the anesthesia plan, delivers of all forms of anesthesia, and provides intra- and post-operative care to patients. As part of “Code Blue” Team, provides emergency airway and resuscitation management throughout the facility and establishes effective working relationships with all levels of staff throughout the

MEDVAMC

Routine Professional Duties: The Anesthesiologist:

2.1.2.2. • Translates the principles of anesthesia practice into appropriate patient care.

2.1.2.3. • Performs the pre-anesthetic patient history and physical, including the collection of preoperative consults and data, performs a patient evaluation and examination from which an appropriate anesthetic plan is formulated.

2.1.2.4. • Communicates the anesthetic risks, benefits, and options to the patient. This is done in the perioperative setting or when stationed the Anesthesia Preoperative Clinic.

2.1.2.5. • Prepares the patient, operating room and/or procedural area for the administration of anesthesia.

2.1.2.6. • Administers inhalation, regional, intravenous, local, and topical anesthetics and continuously evaluates the patient’s physical status and response to anesthesia.

2.1.2.7. • Performs post-anesthetic management of patients in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) in order to optimize the recovery from anesthesia and minimize pain. The PACU is medically directed by ACL.

2.1.2.8. • Ensures timely and accurate anesthetic record charting and anesthesia service documentation.

2.1.2.9. • Provides patient care that is abreast of changing concepts and advancements in the profession while working effectively in an interdisciplinary environment for improvement of services for patient care.

2.1.2.10. • Practices with colleagues and peers utilizing a collaborative team concept of anesthesia care while demonstrating effective communication skills and professional behaviors that promote cooperation and interdisciplinary teamwork. This includes guiding and training anesthesia residents, doctoral-level nurse anesthesia students and Medical Students from the Baylor College of Medicine and SRNAs from UT- Houston.

2.1.2.11. • Demonstrates skill in conducting and managing anesthesia for a broad range of surgical procedures and the ability to adapt and modify anesthesia techniques in order to optimize patient care.

2.1.2.12. • Demonstrates the ability to perform the clinical and technical aspects of anesthesia care and has in-depth knowledge of anesthesia methods and techniques. Able to perform own cases.

2.1.2.13. • Provides consultations and assistance for acute pain problems, difficult invasive line placement, and airway or ventilation concerns.

2.1.2.14. • Effectively blends technology, skills, and competency for the advancement of anesthesia techniques, pharmacology, and equipment.

2.1.2.15. • Applies new developments and theories to recognize and solve various complex anesthesia situations.

3. POSITION DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES CRNA:

3.1. CRNA: The CRNA is responsible for providing a complete range of anesthesia care for a diverse Veteran population including preoperative assessment, intraoperative anesthetic administration and monitoring, and post-anesthesia care, in compliance with national standards JCAHO. The contracted CRNA is accountable to Chief CRNA or delegate to provide the most effective delivery of quality anesthetic care for a diverse Veteran population and broad range of situations throughout the medical center while meeting and exceeding compliance standards. The CRNA functions as a cooperative and collegial team member with the entire staff. Responsibilities include, but is not limited to, effectively performing pre-anesthetic evaluations; collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to prepare the anesthesia plan; delivering all forms of anesthesia; providing intra- and post-operative patient care; provide emergency airway and resuscitation management throughout the facility; and establish effective working relationships with all levels of staff throughout MEDVAMC. The Chief CRNA, or appropriate leadership delegate (i.e. Assistant Chief CRNA), and the supervising anesthesiologist, will provide the CRNA with clinical oversight during their tour of duty. More specific duties and responsibilities of the CRNA are described below and shall be assessed by MEDVAMC prior to provider acceptance.

3.1.1. Maintain patient/resident confidentiality and a safe patient care environment.

3.1.2. The CRNA will translate the principles of professional nurse anesthesia practice into appropriate patient care by performing the following tasks:

3.1.2.1. General Areas of Responsibility: Performs pre-anesthetic evaluations, collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to prepare the anesthesia plan, delivers all forms of anesthesia, and provides intra- and post-operative anesthesia care to patients. As part of the ‘Code Blue” Team, provides emergency airway and resuscitation management throughout the facility and establishes effective working relationships with all levels of staff throughout the

MEDVAMC.

3.1.2.2. Routine Professional Duties: The CRNA:

• Translates the principles of anesthesia practice into appropriate patient care.

• Perform the pre-anesthetic patient history and physical, including the collection of preoperative consults and data, performs a patient evaluation and examination from which an appropriate anesthetic plan is formulated.

• Communicate the anesthetic risks, benefits, and alternatives to the patient.

• Prepares the patient, operating room and/or procedural area for the administration of anesthesia.

• Administer inhalation, regional, intravenous, local, and/or topical anesthetics with continuous evaluations of the patient’s physical status and response to anesthesia.

• Performs post-anesthetic management of patients to optimize the recovery from anesthesia and minimize pain.

• Ensures timely and accurate anesthetic record charting and anesthesia service documentation.

• Provides patient care that is abreast of changing concepts and advancements in the profession while working effectively in an interdisciplinary environment for improvement of services and patient care.

• Practices with colleagues and peers utilizing a collaborative team concept of anesthesia care while demonstrating effective communication skills and professional behaviors that promote cooperation and interdisciplinary teamwork. This includes guiding and training doctoral level anesthesia students and medical students from Baylor College of Medicine and UT Health Science Center Houston.

• Demonstrates skill in conducting and managing anesthesia for a broad range of surgical procedures and the ability to adapt and modify anesthesia techniques in order to optimize patient care.

• Demonstrates the ability to perform the clinical and technical aspects of anesthesia care and has in-depth knowledge of anesthesia methods and techniques.

• Effectively blends technology, sills, and competency for the advancement of anesthesia techniques, pharmacology, and equipment.

• Applies new developments and theories to recognize and solve various complex anesthesia situations.

3.1.2.3. Emergency Duties: Respond to emergency situations by providing airway management, administration of emergency fluids and medications, and using appropriate resuscitation procedures for patient care. Emergency treatment directed by patient’s request as noted in the Advanced Directives listed in VISTA.

3.1.2.4. Collect and document pertinent data into the electronic patient medical record.

3.1.3. Conflict of Interest: The Contractor are responsible for identifying and communicating to the Contracting Officer and COR conflicts of interest at the time of quotes and during the entirety of contract performance. The Contractor shall also provide statements containing the same information for any identified consultants or subcontractors who shall provide services. The Contractor must also provide relevant facts that show how it’s organizational and/or management system or other actions would avoid or mitigate any actual or potential organizational conflicts of interest.

3.1.3.1. Under the performance of this contract, a Government employee who is employed by the Contractor is prohibited from participating personally and substantially on behalf of the Government through decision, approval, disapproval, recommendation, rendering of advice, certifying for payment or otherwise in that contract. No VA employee who is an employee, director or trustee of an affiliated university or who has a financial interest in the contract may lawfully participate in a VA contract or any other Government contract with the contractor.

3.1.3.2. In relation to the contract monitoring procedures a Government employee who is also employed by the contractor may not certify bills for payment. An employee who is not an employee, officer, director or trustee of the contractor and who does not have a financial interest in the contract shall perform this duty. The agency grants the VA the right to hire agency staff with a 30-day notice and at no additional fee.

Contract personnel cannot work for the VA under the Fee Basis Program and through the Agency.

3.1.4. Citizenship related Requirements:

3.1.4.1. The Contractor certifies that the Contractor shall comply with any and all legal provisions contained in the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, As Amended; its related laws and regulations that are enforced by Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S Department of Labor as these may relate to non-immigrant foreign nationals working under contract or subcontract for the Contractor while providing services to Department of Veterans Affairs patient referrals.

3.1.4.2. While performing services for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Contractor shall not knowingly employ, contract or subcontract with an illegal alien; foreign national non-immigrant who is in violation their status, as a result of their failure to maintain or comply with the terms and conditions of their admission into the United States. Additionally, the Contractor is required to comply with all “E- Verify” requirements consistent with “Executive Order 12989” and any related pertinent Amendments, as well as applicable Federal Acquisition Regulations.

3.1.4.3. If the Contractor fails to comply with any requirements outlined in the preceding paragraphs or its Agency regulations, the Department of Veterans Affairs may, at its discretion, require that the foreign national who failed to maintain their legal status in the United States or otherwise failed to comply with the requirements of the laws administered by Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the U.S Department of Labor, shall be prohibited from working at the Contractor’s place of business that services Department of Veterans Affairs patient referrals; or other place where the Contractor provides services to veterans who have been referred by the Department of Veterans Affairs; and shall form the basis for termination of this contract for breach.

3.1.4.4. This certification concerns a matter within the jurisdiction of an agency of the United States and the making of a false, fictitious, or fraudulent certification may render the maker subject to prosecution under 18 U.S.C. 1001.

3.1.4.5. The Contractor agrees to obtain a similar certification from its subcontractors. The certification shall be made as part of the offerors response to the RFQ using the subject attachment in Section D of the solicitation document.

3.2. Clinical/Professional Performance: The qualifications of Contractor personnel are subject to review by VA Medical Center COS or his/her clinical designee and approval by the Medical Center Director as provided in VHA Handbook 1100.19.

Clinical/Professional performance monitoring and review of all clinical personnel covered by this contract for quality purposes will be provided by the VAMC COS and/or the Chief of the Service or his designee. A clinical COR may be appointed, however, only the Contracting Officer is authorized to consider any contract modification request and/or make changes to the contract during the administration of the resultant contract.

3.3. Non-Personal Healthcare Services: The parties agree that the Contractor provider (s) shall not be considered VA employees for any purpose.

3.4. Indemnification: The Contractor shall be liable for, and shall indemnify and hold harmless the Government against, all actions or claims for loss of or damage to property or the injury or death of persons, arising out of or resulting from the fault, negligence, or act or omission of the Contractor, its agents, or employees.

3.5. Inherent Government Functions: Contractor provider (s) shall not perform inherently governmental functions. This includes, but is not limited to, determination of agency policy, determination of Federal program priorities for budget requests, direction and control of government employees (outside a clinical context), selection or non-selection of individuals for Federal Government employment including the interviewing of individuals for employment, approval of position descriptions and performance standards for Federal employees, approving any contractual documents, approval of Federal licensing actions and inspections, and/or determination of budget policy, guidance, and strategy.

3.6. No Employee status: The Contractor provider (s) furnishing services. To carry out this responsibility, the Contractor shall provide or certify that the following is provided for all their staff providing services under the resultant contract:

3.6.1. Workers’ compensation

3.6.2. Professional liability insurance

3.6.3. Health examinations

3.6.4. Income tax withholding, and

3.6.5. Social security payments.

3.7. Tort Liability: The Federal Tort Claims Act does not cover Contractor contract provider (s). When a Contractor provider (s) have been identified as a provider in a tort claim, the Contractor shall be responsible for notifying their legal counsel and/or insurance carrier. Any settlement or judgment arising from a Contractor provider (s) action or non-action shall be the responsibility of the Contractor and/or insurance carrier.

3.7.1. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing coverage to the VA during periods of vacancies of the Contractor’s personnel due to sick leave, personal leave, vacations and additional coverage as required.

3.8. Personnel Substitutions: Personnel Substitutions: During the first 30 calendar days of performance, the Contractor shall make NO substitutions of key personnel unless the substitution is necessitated by illness, death or termination of employment. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer, in writing, within 2 calendar day (s) after the occurrence of any of these events and provide the information required below. After 5 days, the Contractor shall submit the information required below to the Contracting Officer at least 2 calendar days prior to making any permanent substitutions.

3.8.1. The Contractor shall provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances necessitating the proposed substitutions, complete resumes for the proposed substitutes, and any additional information requested by the Contracting Officer. Proposed substitutes shall have comparable qualifications to those of the persons being replaced. The Contracting Officer will notify the Contractor within 2 calendar days after receipt of all required information of the decision on the proposed substitutes. The contract will be modified to reflect any approved changes of key personnel.

3.8.2. For temporary substitutions where the key person shall not be reporting to work for three

(3) consecutive workdays or more, the Contractor shall provide a qualified replacement for the key person. The substitute shall have comparable qualifications to the key person. Any period exceeding two weeks will require the procedure as stated above.

3.8.3. The Government reserves the right to refuse acceptance of any Contractor personnel at any time after performance begins, if personal or professional conduct jeopardizes patient care or interferes with the regular and ordinary operation of the facility. Breaches of conduct include intoxication or debilitation resulting from drug use, theft, patient abuse, dereliction or negligence in performing directed tasks, or other conduct resulting in formal complaints by patient or other staff members to designated Government representatives. Standards for conduct shall mirror those prescribed by current federal personnel regulations. Should the VA COS or designee show documented clinical problems or continual unprofessional behavior/actions with any Contractor’s CRNA (s), s/he may request, without cause, immediate replacement of said Contractor’s CRNA (s). The Contracting Officer and COR shall deal with issues raised concerning Contractor’s CRNA (s) conduct. The final arbiter on questions of acceptability is the Contracting Officer.

3.8.4. Contingency Plan: Because continuity of care is an essential part of MEDVAMC’s medical services, the Contractor shall have a contingency plan in place to be utilized if the Contractor provider (s) or is unable to continue performance in accordance with the terms and conditions of the resulting contract.

3.9. Clinical/Professional Performance: The qualifications of Contractor personnel are subject to review by VA Medical Center COS or his/her clinical designee and approval by the Medical Center Director as provided in VHA Handbook 1100.19.

Clinical/Professional performance monitoring and review of all clinical personnel covered by this contract for quality purposes will be provided by the VAMC COS and/or the Chief of the Service or his designee. A clinical COR may be appointed, however, only the Contracting Officer is authorized to consider any contract modification request and/or make changes to the contract during the administration of the resultant contract.

3.10. Non-Personal Healthcare Services: The parties agree that the Contractor and all contractor’s anesthesiologist (s) shall not be considered VA employees for any purpose.

3.11. Indemnification: The Contractor shall be liable for, and shall indemnify and hold harmless the Government against, all actions or claims for loss of or damage to property or the injury or death of persons, arising out of or resulting from the fault, negligence, or act or omission of the Contractor, its agents, or employees.

3.12. Inherent Government Functions: Contractor and Contractor’s anesthesiologist(s) and other contract provider (s) shall not perform inherently governmental functions.

This includes, but is not limited to, determination of agency policy, determination of Federal program priorities for budget requests, direction and control of government employees (outside a clinical context), selection or non-selection of individuals for Federal Government employment including the interviewing of individuals for employment, approval of position descriptions and performance standards for Federal employees, approving any contractual documents, approval of Federal licensing actions and inspections, and/or determination of budget policy, guidance, and strategy.

3.13. No Employee status: The Contractor shall be responsible for protecting Contractor’s anesthesiologist (s) and other contract provider (s) furnishing services.

To carry out this responsibility, the Contractor shall provide or certify that the following is provided for all their staff providing services under the resultant contract:

3.13.1. Workers’ compensation

3.13.2. Professional liability insurance

3.13.3. Health examinations

3.13.4. Income tax withholding, and

3.13.5. Social security payments.

3.14. Tort Liability: The Federal Tort Claims Act does not cover Contractor or contractor’s anesthesiologist (s) and other contract provider (s). When a Contractor or contractor’s nurse (s) and/or other contract provider (s) have been identified as a provider in a tort claim, the Contractor shall be responsible for notifying their legal counsel and/or insurance carrier. Any settlement or judgment arising from a Contractor’s (or contractor’s anesthesiologist(s) or other contract provider (s)) action or non-action shall be the responsibility of the Contractor and/or insurance carrier.

3.14.1. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing coverage to the VA during periods of vacancies of the Contractor’s personnel due to sick leave, personal leave, vacations and additional coverage as required.

3.15. Personnel Substitutions: Personnel Substitutions: During the first 30 calendar days of performance, the Contractor shall make NO substitutions of key personnel unless the substitution is necessitated by illness, death or termination of employment.

The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer, in writing, within 2 calendar day

(s) after the occurrence of any of these events and provide the information required below. After 5 days, the Contractor shall submit the information required below to the Contracting Officer at least 2 calendar days prior to making any permanent substitutions.

3.15.1. The Contractor shall provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances necessitating the proposed substitutions, complete resumes for the proposed substitutes, and any additional information requested by the Contracting Officer.

Proposed substitutes shall have comparable qualifications to those of the persons being replaced. The Contracting Officer will notify the Contractor within 2 calendar days after receipt of all required information of the decision on the proposed substitutes. The contract will be modified to reflect any approved changes of key personnel.

3.15.2. For temporary substitutions where the key person shall not be reporting to work for three (3) consecutive workdays or more, the Contractor shall provide a qualified replacement for the key person. The substitute shall have comparable qualifications to the key person. Any period exceeding two weeks will require the procedure as stated above.

3.15.3. The Government reserves the right to refuse acceptance of any Contractor personnel at any time after performance begins, if personal or professional conduct jeopardizes patient care or interferes with the regular and ordinary operation of the facility. Breaches of conduct include intoxication or debilitation resulting from drug use, theft, patient abuse, dereliction or negligence in performing directed tasks, or other conduct resulting in formal complaints by patient or other staff members to designated Government representatives. Standards for conduct shall mirror those prescribed by current federal personnel regulations. Should the VA COS or designee show documented clinical problems or continual unprofessional behavior/actions with any Contractor’s nurse (s), s/he may request, without cause, immediate replacement of said Contractor’s nurse (s).

The Contracting Officer and COR shall deal with issues raised concerning Contractor’s nurse (s) conduct. The final arbiter on questions of acceptability is the Contracting Officer.

3.15.4. Contingency Plan: Because continuity of care is an essential part of MEDVAMC’s medical services, the Contractor shall have a contingency plan in place to be utilized if the Contractor’s anesthesiologist (s) leaves Contractor’s employment or is unable to continue performance in accordance with the terms and conditions of the resulting contract.

4. FOR ALL POSITIONS:

4.1. The contract anesthesiologist shall complete all documentation accurately and within assigned timeframes.

4.2. The contract anesthesiologist assigned shall be physically able to carry out measures under the “Prevention and Management of Disruptive Behavior (PMDB),” which includes prevention techniques, basic self-defense, and the ability to perform a therapeutic containment to provide care in the Acute units.

4.3. The contract anesthesiologist shall, at all times, conduct themselves in a professional manner treating patient, visitors, and staff in a courteous manner. Sustained allegations of patient or coworker abuse, both verbally or physically, will result in immediate removal from MEDVAMC, and will also be reported to the Contracting Officer. These incidents may result in that contractor employee not being eligible for continued contract performance with MEDVAMC.

4.4. Dress apparel: Contractor personnel shall be required to dress in a professional manner and in accordance with VA Handbook 1850.4 Employee Uniforms. VHA Handbook 1850.04.

5. SCHEDULING:

5.1. The following entities/positions are authorized by the Contracting Officer to place requests with the contractor for services required under this contract: Anesthesiology Care Line executive or designee, Supervisory Program analyst, or COR. The VA shall provide Contractor with the names, titles and telephone numbers of individuals authorized to request staffing. Contractor’s personnel will be scheduled for shifts (Day, Evening, Night, Weekend, etc.) based on the needs of MEDVAMC, providing maximum flexibility to the appropriate VA authority in scheduling.

5.2. MEDVAMC does not guarantee a set contract or number of hours for any agency personnel. Contractor shall maintain sufficient VA credentialed staff to meet service requests for uncovered shifts. Contractor shall confirm with VA the ability to meet all scheduled coverage requirements upon award of the contract.

5.3. The VA reserves the right to cancel or change any scheduled shift of any contract personnel with at least a two-hour notice to the contractor prior to cancellation of a shift, at no cost to the VA. If the VA fails to provide two-hour advance notice, the contractor may charge the VA for two (2) hours from the beginning of the cancelled shift. The VA retains the right to change the scheduled shift and/or work location within MEDVAMC, provided the nurse is clinically qualified to work in the area.

5.4. Contractor provider (s) staff must contact their agency regarding cancellations, changes in scheduling, etc. The contractor will, in turn, contact MEDVAMC of employee cancellation and advise the name of the replacement provider. The Contractor provider

(s) will provide notification of cancellations at least two (2) hours prior to the beginning of a scheduled shift. Contractor provider (s) shall be responsible for any overtime costs to the government to provide coverage for any “no call/no show” shift. A short notice cancellation of less than four hours shall become the vendor’s responsibility to provide a replacement provider. Notification of, or the inability to provide, a replacement provider must be made to the MEDVAMC at least two (2) hours prior to the start of the scheduled shift.

6. TOUR OF DUTY: The contract resulting from this requirement shall provide maximum flexibility to the VA scheduling authority. MEDVAMC provides anesthesia services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Coverage may include weekends, federal holidays, days, evenings, or overnights, and are variable within a 24 hour period. Contractor’s personnel shall be required to work any regular or irregular tour, with 8 hour, 10 hour and 12 hour tours typically being:

7. Contract anesthesiologist hours:

8 Hour Tour:

Day 0700-1530

10 Hour Tour Day 0700-17:30

12 Hour Tour:

Day 0700-2030;

The contract anesthesiologist may be required on any tour to stay extra time according to the schedule and patients’ needs.

CRNA Hours:

8 Hour Tour:

Day 0645-1515;

Evening 1100-1930;

Night 2300-0700

10 Hour Tour:

Day 0645-1715;

Evening 1100-2130;

Evening 1230-2300

12 Hour Tour:

Day 0645-1915;

Night 1900-0700

The contract nurse anesthetist may be required on any tour to stay extra time according to the schedule and patients’ needs.

7.1. Contractor’s personnel must be present at MEDVAMC during scheduled work hours and actually be performing required services identified herein or the Contractor’s payment will decrease accordingly. Contractor will be notified and required to have back-up plan to provide needed staff in the event of a no-show. A no-show is defined as the contract employee not being in place at the scheduled start time. Contractor will be notified within two (2) hours of the contract employee reporting for duty if their services are not needed due to a decrease in workload.

7.2. Contractor’s personnel must present a legible “service ticket” to the appropriate VA authority (Executive of Anesthesiology Care Line or designee, or Supervisory program analyst ) for each shift worked, showing the individual’s name, date, work unit and hours worked to include meal breaks. The appropriate authority will initial and retain a copy for verification and payment purposes. Timecards signed by other than those listed above will not be accepted with invoices for payment.

8. BASIC QUALIFICATION/KNOWLEDGE SKILLS:

8.1. Contract anesthesiologist:

8.2. Contractor shall ensure that all contract personnel have met the qualifying criteria outlined in this section. Personnel assigned by the contractor to perform the services covered by this contract shall have: Degree of Doctor of Medicine or an equivalent degree resulting from a course of education in medicine or osteopathic medicine. The degree must have been obtained from one of the schools approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs for the year in which the course of study was completed. Current, full and unrestricted license to practice medicine or surgery in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth of the United States, or in the District of Columbia.

Completion of residency training, or its equivalent, approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs in an accredited core specialty training program leading to eligibility for board certification. Proficiency in spoken and written English

8.3. The qualifications of such personnel shall also be subject to review/approval by the VA COS or designee. Individuals will be required to provide and maintain current license, applicable certifications, proof of a negative TB test within the past 12 months, pre-employment drug screening, and BLS certification and ACLS Certification. Contractor will provide proof of updated licenses and certifications to the COR or designated individual prior to being scheduled for MEDVAMC required training. Contractor will also provide proof of updated licenses and certifications to the COR or designated individual as they expire. Contractor will be responsible for completing initial competency evaluations based on VA-provided competency list and will provide completed assessment to COR. Individuals must meet physical requirements to perform a full range of duties without physical restrictions. Personnel must also have a working knowledge and basic skills in the use of personal computers (PC). Contract personnel are required to be credentialed through VetPro. Evidence of completion of required licensure, credentials, required training, current competencies and initiation of background investigations must be validated for all contractor personnel referred to perform services under this contract prior to providing direct patient care. Ultimately, the decision to accept or reject contract staff rests with the VA. Contractor shall not have any personnel report to duty until written notification is received from the Contracting Officer advising that the candidate(s) presented has met all requirements for contract performance.

Contract CRNA:

8.4. Personnel shall be graduates of a professional, accredited nursing school approved by the appropriate state-accrediting agency and accredited by one of the following accrediting bodies at the time the program was completed by the applicant and must meet the basic requirement established by VA Handbook 5005/37 Part II Appendix G7

8.4.1. The National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), an accrediting arm of the National League for Nursing located at 61 Broadway, 33rd Floor, New York, New York 10006. Additional information may be obtained from the NLNAC website; or

8.4.2. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), an accrediting arm of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). The CCNE accredits bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and is located at One Dupont Circle, N.W., Suite 530, Washington, DC 20036. Additional information may be obtained from the CCNE website.

8.4.3. In cases of graduates of foreign schools of professional nursing, possession of a current, full and unrestricted registration (see basic requirement in subparagraph c below) and the possession of a Certificate from the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) will meet the requirement of graduation from an approved school of professional nursing.

8.5. Graduate of an accredited nurse anesthesia educational program approved by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) at the time the program was completed by the applicant. The AANA has compiled current listings of approved training institutions, which are published annually in the December issue of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists Journal. The American Hospital Association in their “Guide to the Health Care Field” also publishes listings of approved training institutions annually in August.

8.6. Current, full active and unrestricted licensure as a graduate professional nurse in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth (i.e., Puerto Rico) of the U.S. or in the District of Columbia.

The nurse anesthetist must maintain a current, full, active and unrestricted registration to continue employment with VA.

8.7. Certification: On and after May 4, 1993, certification by the Council of Certification of Nurse Anesthetists is a requirement for employment. This requirement does not apply to non-certified nurse anesthetists employed by VA as a nurse anesthetist prior to May 4, 1993 and continuously thereafter. Any nurse anesthetist, who leaves VA employment or vacates the nurse anesthetist occupation for another VA position, must meet the current requirement of certification for reappointment as a nurse anesthetist. The CCNA and the Council on Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists have designated the AANA's web site as a display agent for their information. (2) Nurse Anesthetists will maintain recertification by meeting the Council on Recertification of Nurse Anesthetist's requirements as a condition of employment.

8.8. Nurse Anesthetists will maintain recertification by meeting the Council on Recertification of Nurse Anesthetist’s requirements as a condition of employment.

8.9. Proficiency in spoken and written English.

The qualifications of such personnel shall also be subject to review/approval by the VA COS or designee.

8.10. Individuals will be required to provide and maintain current license, applicable certifications, proof of a negative TB test within the past 12 months, current flu and COVID vaccination or valid exemption, pre-employment drug screening, and BLS certification and ACLS Certification. Contractor will provide proof of updated licenses and certifications to the COR or designated individual prior to being scheduled for MEDVAMC required training. Contractor will also provide proof of updated licenses and certifications to the COR or designated individual as they expire. Contractor will be responsible for completing initial competency evaluations based on VA-provided competency list and will provide completed assessment to COR. Individuals must meet physical requirements to perform a full range of duties without physical restrictions. Personnel must also have a working knowledge and basic skills in the use of personal computers (PC). Contract personnel are required to be credentialed through VetPro.

8.11. Evidence of completion of required licensure, credentials, required training, current competencies and initiation of background investigations must be validated for all contractor personnel referred to perform services under this contract prior to providing direct patient care.

8.12. Ultimately, the decision to accept or reject contract staff rests with the VA.

Contractor shall not have any personnel report to duty until written notification is received from the Contracting Officer advising that the candidate(s) presented has met all requirements for contract performance.

6. SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS/KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: This contract requires the services of anesthesiologist in various areas of MEDVAMC. The experience required should be within the past five (5) years:

Current ACLS Certification 8.1.2.Current BLS Certification

Note: Contract anesthesiologist(s) performing services on this contract may not provide anesthesiology services at other health care systems/medical centers located within the Houston, Texas area concurrently will be providing services at MEDVAMC unless getting approval/authorization by designed VA personnel to do so.

7. MEDVAMC CONDUCTED…