Emergency Response Systems

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), specifically the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities, is seeking vendors to provide an Emergency Response System (ERS) through a Request for Proposals (RFP) with Contract No. HSS-26-007. The procurement aims to secure electronic devices that enable high-risk participants to quickly obtain emergency assistance during physical, emotional, or environmental crises by activating a help button that signals a response center. The ERS must automatically notify a trained staff when assistance is needed, either through direct button activation or by detecting a participant's failure to make a scheduled check-in. Service unit options range from landline to mobile systems with advanced features like GPS and fall detection technologies, and providers must offer statewide service coverage. The evaluation will be comprehensive, assessing corporate qualifications (20 points), work plan (50 points), service unit rate reimbursement proposal (20 points), and program staffing (10 points). The RFP was posted on August 29, 2025, with proposals due on October 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM EST, and an anticipated award notification date of December 1, 2025. The initial contract will run for one year with the potential for four additional one-year renewals.

The state encourages participation from diverse business enterprises, including Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), Woman Business Enterprises (WBE), Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE), Veteran Owned Business Enterprises (VOBE), and Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Business Enterprises (SDVOBE). Vendors must complete various forms including a Non-Collusion Statement, Subcontractor Information Form, and Business References Form, which requires a minimum of three business references. The contract includes provisions for comprehensive data protection, breach notification, and cybersecurity requirements, reflecting the sensitive nature of services for vulnerable populations. While specific pricing is not explicitly detailed, the total fixed fee is not to exceed $1,000,000, with subscription license costs incurred at the individual license level and additional licenses limited to 5% above actual utilization. The state reserves the right to award to multiple vendors and will select proposals based on the most advantageous offering, not necessarily the lowest price. Vendors must also comply with background check requirements and maintain appropriate insurance coverage.