HHS0015674 Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are seeking FDA-approved at-home self-testing collection kits for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and hepatitis testing. The Invitation for Bids (IFB) requires contractors to provide comprehensive testing services throughout Texas for priority populations at no cost to clients, with specific requirements for HIV Dry Blood Spot tests, syphilis and 3-site testing, HCV AB tests, and HBV aAg tests. The initial contract term runs from award through August 31, 2026, with three possible one-year renewal options extending through August 31, 2029. Questions are due by February 14, 2025, with bid responses required by March 5, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time. Evaluation criteria will consider price, ability to meet specifications, and delivery requirements to determine the best value for the state. Bidders must provide per-kit pricing for multiple test products, including controls and verification panels, with an estimated quantity of 250,000 HIV Point of Care Test kits and 1,500 controls. The historical spend for similar services was $650,000 in FY24, though future volumes are not guaranteed.

The solicitation includes a mandatory 21.1% Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) subcontracting goal for commodities contracts, with probable subcontracting opportunities in diagnostic reagents, test kits, supplies, and transportation services. Vendors must submit a completed HUB Subcontracting Plan (HSP) using one of five approved methods: using only HUB vendors, participating in a Mentor-Protege Program, meeting the HUB goal, conducting solicitation outreach, or self-performing all work. Contractors must provide detailed demographic information, number of test kits distributed, and screening results to the agency. Pricing must remain firm and fixed throughout the contract term, with potential adjustments only allowed based on the Consumer Price Index or federal minimum wage increases. The solicitation requires comprehensive documentation, including HHS Solicitation Affirmations, Pricing Sheet, Bidder Reference Form, and HUB Subcontracting Plan. Vendors must comply with various state requirements, including cybersecurity training, cloud computing compliance, and specific prohibitions on certain business practices. The contract will be awarded based on the most advantageous proposal considering technical capabilities, pricing, and ability to meet the state's STI testing needs.