20LCEHSSTEPRFR: The COVID-19 Strategic Testing Expansion Program RFR

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) is issuing a Request for Responses (RFR) to solicit applications from eligible bidders to serve as specimen collection and test resulting providers for the COVID-19 Strategic Testing Expansion Program (STEP). The purpose of STEP is to increase access to COVID-19 testing across Massachusetts, with the goal of developing statewide capacity for 45,000 tests per day by August 1, 2020 and 75,000 tests per day by January 1, 2021. The initial contract term is anticipated to run until December 31, 2020, with the possibility of extensions of up to 18 additional months. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, with priority given to those submitted by June 22, 2020 and July 14, 2020. Bidders must demonstrate the ability to provide testing services for at least 500 individuals per day cumulatively across all site locations, with flexibility to adjust testing locations as needed.

The RFR does not specify any set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond. EOHHS intends to enter into contracts with all bidders whose applications meet the minimum requirements. The RFR does not identify any incumbent vendors or current contractors, nor does it provide details on existing infrastructure or technology that requires integration. While the RFR does not list specific award values or budget ranges, it indicates that contractors will be paid a per-test overhead rate, adjusted for the total number of individuals tested, with priority given to bidders whose pricing is at or below EOHHS benchmarks.