Lab Specimen Courier Services for DSSLC

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) for Lab Specimen Courier Services for the Denton State Supported Living Center (DSSLC), located in Denton County. The procurement seeks a courier service to transport medical specimens, including blood, urine, stool, and COVID testing samples, between two specified laboratory locations in Denton, Texas. The service requires 24/7 availability with a strict 30-minute maximum response time and 30-minute delivery window, with a critical 10-minute requirement specifically for Arterial Blood Gas specimens. Bidders must demonstrate comprehensive operational capabilities, including customer service processes, order fulfillment, and provide three verifiable references for similar contracts completed within the last three years. Evaluation criteria will focus on meeting IFB requirements, performance delivery capabilities, and pricing, with the HHSC reserving the right to award based on best value to the State of Texas. Key dates include a question submission deadline of July 3, 2025, bid responses due by July 15, 2025, and an anticipated contract start date of September 1, 2025, with potential for two one-year renewals through August 31, 2028.

The solicitation encourages participation from Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) and requires contractors to maintain specific standards of conduct. Bidders must complete several mandatory attachments, including Exhibit A Solicitation Affirmations, Exhibit C Pricing Sheet, and Exhibit D Bidder Reference Form, with failure to submit these documents potentially resulting in bid disqualification. The contract includes specific insurance requirements, such as workers' compensation, commercial general liability, commercial automobile liability, professional liability, and umbrella liability insurance. The historical spend for similar services is approximately $25,000 for the period of September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025. Pricing must be firm and fixed for the contract duration, with potential Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustments during renewal periods. Bidders must also comply with various state regulations, including provisions related to employment practices, cybersecurity training, and restrictions on business conduct with certain entities. The solicitation emphasizes comprehensive legal and regulatory compliance, with potential consequences for false statements or misrepresentations including contract termination and legal penalties.