AHRQ Evidence-based Practice Center (EPC) VII
ID: AHRQ-25-10002Type: Presolicitation
Overview

Buyer

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, DEPARTMENT OFAGENCY FOR HEALTHCARE RESEARCH AND QUALITYAHRQ CENTER FOR EVIDENCE AND PRACTICE IMPROVEMENTRockville, MD, 20857, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

HEALTH R&D SERVICES; HEALTH CARE - OTHER; APPLIED RESEARCH (AN42)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/c54e98cb91424560aa8c8b869ee5c7fd/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Health and Human Services, through the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), is soliciting proposals for the Evidence-Based Practice Center (EPC) VII program, aimed at conducting systematic evidence synthesis and analysis to improve healthcare practices and policies. The selected contractors will be responsible for producing evidence reports, including systematic reviews and living evidence reviews, focusing on healthcare effectiveness, patient outcomes, and disparities in healthcare delivery. This initiative is critical for informing clinical decision-making and healthcare policy, ensuring that stakeholders have access to high-quality, evidence-based findings. A total funding amount of up to $40 million is available for multiple Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts over a five-year period, with proposals due through the AHRQ Proposal Module. For further inquiries, interested parties may contact Scott Henderson at scott.henderson@ahrq.hhs.gov or Erin Mills at erin.mills@ahrq.hhs.gov.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Scott Henderson
    (301) 427-1764
    scott.henderson@ahrq.hhs.gov
    Erin Mills
    erin.mills@ahrq.hhs.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    a. SBSSN.pdf
    The Department of Health and Human Services, specifically the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, seeks experienced small businesses for a potential multiple award IDIQ contract. The primary objective is to engage Evidence-based Practice Centers (EPCs) to conduct various types of evidence syntheses, including systematic, rapid, and qualitative reviews. These reviews cover a wide range of medical topics, contributing to healthcare decision-making. EPCs must have expertise in evidence synthesis methods and be able to respond promptly to requests for various types of reviews. The agency seeks information on small businesses capable of fulfilling these requirements, with responses due by January 5, 2024. Selectees will have the opportunity to compete for task orders under the IDIQ contract, which has an anticipated period of performance from November 2024 to November 2029.
    AHRQ-25-10002.pdf
    The document outlines the Request for Proposal (RFP) No. AHRQ-25-10002 from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) for the Evidence-Based Practice Centers (EPC) VII program. The solicitation invites proposals to support the synthesis of scientific evidence crucial for enhancing healthcare practices and policy. It details administrative aspects such as dates for proposal submissions, the process for inquiries, and the importance of addressing conflicts of interest. The contract will span five years, with expectations of awarding up to 11 multiple-award contracts. It stipulates requirements for proposal submission using an online module, specifying that proposals must remain valid for a minimum of 120 days. The EPC will focus on the development of evidence reports which include systematic reviews, technical briefs, and living reviews, aimed at informing clinical practices, healthcare policy, and decision-making for various stakeholders such as clinicians and policymakers. Key principles of the program emphasize relevance, scientific rigor, and maintaining independence. The overarching objective is to improve healthcare outcomes by integrating high-quality, evidence-based findings into practice. Successful proposals will reflect thorough understanding and execution of the stipulated tasks promoting effective healthcare delivery and addressing disparities within the healthcare system.
    AHRQ-25-10002 Amendment 1.pdf
    The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP No. AHRQ-25-10002) for the Evidence-Based Practice Centers (EPC) VII, inviting submissions from qualified organizations to conduct evidence synthesis and analysis for healthcare improvement. The RFP outlines the timeline for question submissions, proposals, and the intent to award multiple Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts for a five-year period totaling up to $40 million. Key tasks for contractors include systematic reviews, rapid responses, and living evidence reviews focusing on healthcare effectiveness, patient outcomes, and healthcare disparities. The proposal process requires strict compliance with submission protocols, including registration in the AHRQ Proposal Module and adherence to conflict of interest policies. The contract aims to synthesize scientific literature, engage with stakeholders to enhance relevance, and uphold rigorous methodological standards. The EPCs will support various healthcare partners, including federal agencies, guideline developers, and patient-centered initiatives, reinforcing AHRQ’s commitment to evidence-based practice that informs clinical decision-making and healthcare policy.
    AHRQ-25-10002 Attachment 1A - EPC Procedures Guide.pdf
    The document serves as a comprehensive Procedure Guide for the AHRQ Evidence-based Practice Centers (EPCs) under the EPC VII Request for Proposals. Its purpose is to standardize and improve the process of developing evidence reviews for healthcare topics, ensuring the outputs are relevant for stakeholders such as federal agencies, clinicians, and policymakers. The guide delineates roles and responsibilities, specifies pre- and post-report activities, and outlines various review processes, including systematic, rapid, and living reviews. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration with Key Informants (KIs) and Technical Expert Panels (TEPs) in refining topics and developing high-quality reports. The document also provides detailed schedules for deliverables, ensuring adherence to timelines while fostering transparency and effective communication throughout the process. The overarching goal is to create reports that contribute to evidence-based healthcare practice and support decision-making in clinical and policy contexts.
    AHRQ-25-10002 Attachment 1B - USPSTF Procedures Guide for EPCs.pdf
    The document lays out the procedures for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) regarding systematic evidence reviews and reaffirmation processes. It emphasizes defining topics for review, producing evidence reports, and developing recommendation statements. Key phases involve the appointment of topic teams, literature review, conflict of interest checks, and public comment solicitation. A systematic evidence review entails gathering relevant scientific data, assessing the quality of studies, and synthesizing findings into detailed reports that inform preventive service recommendations. Another aspect is the reaffirmation of existing recommendations, which aims to ensure continued relevance through updates while maintaining high evidence standards. Additionally, the process includes manuscript preparation for publication in peer-reviewed journals, ensuring alignment with the USPSTF’s mission to promote evidence-based medicine. This structure illustrates the rigorous approach needed to inform clinical preventive services, highlighting the USPSTF's commitment to public health and evidence-based decision-making.
    Response to questions.pdf
    The document is a response to questions regarding the Request for Proposal (RFP) AHRQ-25-10002 for Evidence-Based Practice Centers (EPC) VII. It clarifies various aspects of the proposal requirements and addresses concerns raised by potential offerors. Key points include the confirmation that no amendment is necessary for several inquiries concerning resume limits, small business requirements, and the format for letters of commitment. Clarifications are also provided on conflicting instructions related to topic areas for proposals and evaluation criteria, emphasizing that while offerors should focus on two topics, the evaluation may mention three. Additional questions on submission protocols and budget requirements are answered without the need for amendments. The document exemplifies the AHRQ’s commitment to transparency and the support of a clear proposal submission process. It serves to guide interested parties in aligning their proposals with the defined expectations, thereby enhancing the likelihood of successful applications under the government's framework for addressing healthcare evidence synthesis.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    AHRQ Evidence-based Practice Center (EPC) VII
    Solicitation
    AHRQ Evidence-based Practice Center (EPC) VII
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    Presolicitation
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