Medical Support Staffing Services for Disaster Shelters

Sarasota County is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Medical Support Staffing Services for Disaster Shelters, seeking a vendor to provide comprehensive medical support during declared emergencies. The procurement will result in up to two contracts for a medical support team consisting of 28 personnel, including medical providers, nurses, respiratory therapists, care assistants, and logistics staff who will operate in 12-hour shifts. Proposers must demonstrate extensive experience in medical support staffing, with a preference for those with disaster event experience. The medical support team must be capable of deploying within 72 hours of notification and operating for a minimum of 15 consecutive days, adhering to FEMA, American Red Cross, and State of Florida standards. Evaluation criteria will include qualifications, experience, project approach, and compensation, with potential presentations required during the selection process. The proposal is due on April 5, 2024, with an anticipated initial contract term of 5 years. The solicitation is funded through FEMA grant funding, which means local and American business preferences do not apply.

The procurement does not specify explicit set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, though contractors are required to take affirmative steps to include minority and small businesses. The contract involves extensive insurance requirements, including workers' compensation, commercial general liability, business automobile liability, umbrella liability, and professional liability coverage. Contractors will be responsible for their own lodging, transportation, and meals, with Sarasota County providing the shelter facility. The contract is subject to strict federal compliance requirements, including provisions related to clean air and water compliance, debarment and suspension rules, anti-lobbying requirements, and prohibitions on certain telecommunications equipment. While a specific contract value is not disclosed, the comprehensive staffing requirements and 5-year term suggest a potentially significant financial commitment. Proposers must also comply with various federal guidelines from FEMA, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management, with mandatory record retention for five years after contract completion.