Respite Services - Master Agreement Request for Applications

The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (DMH) is issuing a Request for Applications (RFA) to establish a pool of qualified providers from which DMH Areas can purchase Site-Based Respite and/or Mobile Respite Services on an as-needed basis. DMH will enter into a Master Agreement (MA) with all qualified providers. The RFA outlines the application requirements, including details on the applicant's background, staff qualifications, service model and delivery, quality management, and reporting. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to meet the stated service principles, goals, and operational standards. Applications will be evaluated based on criteria such as the bidder's background, staffing, service model, scenarios, site locations, and quality management. The RFA termination date is June 30, 2027, and applications may be submitted anytime from June 23, 2017 up to March 31, 2027, with the first round of awards estimated for August 25, 2017.

The RFA indicates that providers must have an approved Supplier Diversity Plan in order to be paid more than $150,000 under the MA. However, the RFA does not provide details on any set-asides, incumbent vendors, or award values. Pricing terms, funding requirements and sources are also not specified, as DMH will establish the pool of qualified providers from which services will be purchased on an as-needed basis. The RFA is focused on the qualifications and selection of the provider pool, rather than commercial or financial details.