Interpreter services for deaf and hard. .

The South Carolina Department of Mental Health (SCDMH) is soliciting fixed-price bids for interpreter services for deaf and hard of hearing clients across its statewide programs and facilities. The procurement seeks qualified interpreters to provide on-site and video remote interpreting (VRI) services available 24/7, including standard interpreting, certified deaf interpreter (CDI) services, sign language instruction, orientation to deafness, and telecommunications device training. Interpreters must meet South Carolina Law 40-84-110 requirements and possess current certification from the Registry of the Interpreters for the Deaf. The solicitation requires bidders to demonstrate two years of mental health interpreting experience or workshop completion, current certification, and at least two references. Key submission deadlines include August 14, 2023, for questions and August 22, 2023, at 3:00 P.M. for sealed bid submissions, with award notification scheduled for August 28, 2023. The contract will be a one-year initial agreement with four one-year renewal options, for a maximum contract duration of five years, starting September 7, 2023, and ending September 6, 2028.

The procurement does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The contract will utilize a fixed price structure with maximum hourly rates: $70.00 for base rate services, $80.00 for evening and weekend rates, and $100.00 for emergency services. SCDMH anticipates approximately 550 annual appointments, with 52% requiring in-person services (285 appointments) and 48% requiring virtual services (265 appointments). A two-hour minimum payment applies per assignment, with mileage reimbursed at the current state rate. Multiple interpreters may be placed on a Qualified Provider List (QPL), though placement does not guarantee usage levels. Contractors must execute the SCDMH Business Associate/Qualified Service Organization Agreement and comply with HIPAA, Joint Commission, CMS, ADA, and ACA regulations. Canceled appointments with less than 48 hours notice will be paid at the hourly rate for scheduled hours, and VRI services must be provided within 20 minutes for American Sign Language and 60 minutes for CDI services.