Certified Peer Support Specialist Response to Overdose Emergency Calls

Caroline County Behavioral Health, an entity of the Caroline County Health Department in Maryland, is seeking proposals for a Certified Peer Support Specialist to respond to overdose emergency calls under RFP Procurement ID# BPM058185, with proposals due August 28, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. EST and bid opening on August 31. The specialist must respond in-person within one hour of notification by Caroline County Emergency Services and maintain 24/7 coverage availability.

The scope requires one full-time Certified Peer Support Specialist to provide immediate peer support to individuals and families affected by overdose, distribute Naloxone with instruction, navigate clients to treatment resources and community services, complete referrals within two business days, and conduct one-month follow-up for data tracking. The specialist may perform related peer recovery support, case management, outreach, and community-based recovery duties when not actively responding to overdose calls, provided the one-hour response time is maintained. The position can integrate into an existing peer recovery program with appropriate time and expense allocation. Specific workflows, consent processes, and procedures will be developed collaboratively during contract execution.

The contract maximum is $74,175.65 on a reimbursement basis with monthly invoicing, running from September 15, 2026 through June 30, 2027, with potential extension through amendment if funding becomes available. Vendors must hold a Maryland Certificate of Good Standing or Tax Clearance Statement through the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation. Hours worked will be based solely on the number of overdose calls, service referrals, and follow-up requirements in Caroline County.

Evaluation criteria (total 100 points): on-time submission with all required elements (10 points), comprehensive and innovative budget (10 points), understanding of services and client population (20 points), demonstrated experience and capacity (20 points), linkages with community-based service providers (20 points), and organizational capacity to provide services (20 points). Required submittals include cover letter, transmission letter, narrative, detailed budget with justification, contingency plan for staff absence, recent financial statements, substance abuse policy, certification credentials, minimum three reference letters from health organizations, liability insurance documentation, and tax clearance statement. Questions are due August 21, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. EST. A pre-proposal meeting may be requested if submitted by August 14. Proposals must be submitted through the e-Maryland Marketplace. Award notification is anticipated September 4, 2026.