DOC Onsite Vision and Optometry Services for the Incarcerated Population

The Rhode Island Department of Corrections is soliciting proposals for comprehensive onsite vision and optometry services to approximately 2,400 incarcerated individuals across six correctional facilities on the Pastore Complex in Cranston, Rhode Island, with proposals due August 12, 2026 and vendor questions due by July 28, 2026.

The scope requires a minimum of 24 hours per month of optometrist coverage and 10 hours per month of optician coverage, encompassing comprehensive eye examinations, diagnosis and treatment of ocular disease, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy screening, prescription and provision of corrective lenses, and management of urgent and emergent eye conditions. All optometrists and opticians must be licensed in Rhode Island and compliant with HIPAA, American Correctional Association standards, and Rhode Island Department of Corrections security protocols including mandatory two-day orientation training. Optical frames must be non-metal without removable decorative components or sharp edges, and lenses must be non-shattering material. Vendors must demonstrate the ability to maintain uninterrupted services during staff absences and scale operations to meet demand. The cost proposal must detail hourly rates for personnel, eyewear costs (estimated at 265 frames, 170 single lenses, and 100 bifocal lenses annually), and any startup or equipment expenses; vendor staff are compensated only for hours worked with no payment for sick leave, vacation, or paid time off.

The initial contract term is three years beginning Fall 2026, with optional renewal for two additional 12-month periods contingent on vendor performance and fund availability. Vendors must carry professional liability insurance of $2 million per occurrence and aggregate, and cyber/privacy insurance of $5 million per occurrence and annual aggregate.

Technical proposals are scored on a maximum of 70 points and must achieve at least 55 points to advance to cost evaluation. Cost proposals receive up to 30 points with the lowest bidder receiving 100 percent. Bonus points of up to 6 are available for minority, women, or disability business enterprise participation, bringing the total possible score to 106 points. Proposals are submitted electronically through Ocean State Procures. A 0.33 percent contract administrative fee will be withheld from invoiced amounts.