R499--POETRY THERAPY SERVICES
ID: 36C26224Q1825Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

VETERANS AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OFVETERANS AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF262-NETWORK CONTRACT OFFICE 22 (36C262)Gilbert, AZ, 85297, USA

NAICS

Civic and Social Organizations (813410)

PSC

SUPPORT- PROFESSIONAL: OTHER (R499)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Veterans Affairs is soliciting proposals for poetry therapy services under solicitation number 36C26224Q1825, with a budget of $9.5 million. The objective of this procurement is to enhance veteran care through the provision of specialized therapeutic services, which will be delivered over a performance period from September 27, 2024, to September 26, 2025. Interested contractors must comply with small business set-aside regulations, particularly focusing on service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses, and are required to submit their proposals by September 17, 2024, with inquiries due by September 11, 2024. For further information, potential vendors can contact Contract Specialist Jessica Brooks at JESSICA.BROOKS3@VA.GOV.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Jessica BrooksContract Specialist
    (480) 466-7940
    Jessica.brooks3@va.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document outlines a Request for Proposal (RFP) for poetry therapy services issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The solicitation, numbered 36C26224Q1825, is part of an ongoing initiative to enhance veteran care, with a budget set at $9.5 million. Interested contractors must submit their offers by September 17, 2024, with inquiries due by September 11, 2024. Key terms address compliance with small business set-aside regulations, particularly focusing on service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses. The RFP emphasizes the provision of services as detailed in a Statement of Work (SOW), and vendors must adhere to strict information security protocols due to the sensitivity of VA data. The document also outlines invoicing requirements, payment terms, and delivery schedules, indicating that services should begin as early as September 27, 2024, through September 26, 2025. Key contract clauses include terms related to inspection, acceptance, and the obligations surrounding security incidents and data breaches. Additionally, contractor compliance with various federal regulations, including those pertaining to subcontracting limitations and the possession of sensitive personal information, is detailed, highlighting the importance of maintaining privacy and security throughout the contract period.
    This document is an amendment to solicitation number 36C26224Q1825 issued by the Department of Veterans Affairs, specifically managed by the Gilbert Network Contracting Office. The amendment responds to inquiries from potential vendors regarding the contract details. It clarifies that the required 40 hours of service will be spread throughout the performance period from September 24 to September 25, 2024, rather than being completed in one block of time. Additionally, it allows that half of the interaction can occur virtually via Zoom, indicating a flexible approach to service delivery. The amendment reinforces that aside from these changes, all other terms and conditions from the original solicitation remain intact and enforceable. This process reflects the VA's commitment to transparency and effective communication with contractors as part of its procurement procedures.
    The document titled "Wage Determination 2015-5635" outlines the minimum wage rates applicable for various labor categories under federal contracts. This wage determination is relevant for contracts governed by the Service Contract Act (SCA) and sets forth the prevailing wage rates for different job classifications across specific geographic locations. The document presents wage rates for occupations ranging from custodial and maintenance positions to construction and technical roles. Each job classification includes corresponding monetary values reflecting regional economic conditions and labor market standards. Moreover, the document emphasizes adherence to these wage rates by contractors, ensuring fair compensation for workers engaged in federally funded projects. The attached wage rates are subject to periodic revisions, indicating the federal government’s commitment to maintaining equitable labor practices. The information is essential for compliance with federal contracting regulations and informs prospective bidders on appropriate labor costs when preparing proposals for government contracts. Overall, this wage determination serves as a critical tool for fostering fair labor standards in federal contracting and supports the overarching objective of promoting worker rights in government-funded projects.
    The provided documents consist of a request for proposal (RFP) associated with the VA10091, alongside necessary administrative forms such as the W-9 Form and the FMS Vendor File Update Request Form. The primary purpose of these documents is to facilitate the procurement process for the Department of Veterans Affairs, detailing submission guidelines for potential contractors and outlining required documentation. The W-9 Form allows vendors to provide their taxpayer identification information necessary for tax reporting, while the FMS Vendor File Update Request ensures the vendor information remains current within federal tracking systems. Collectively, these documents exemplify standard practices in federal contracting, emphasizing compliance with federal regulations and thorough vendor vetting. They are integral to ensuring transparency, accountability, and proper financial oversight in government-funded projects.
    The provided vendor information form is a comprehensive document required for the registration of vendors wanting to participate in federal government contracts and grants, particularly for the Veterans Affairs (VA) sector. It includes essential sections such as vendor identification, service details, financial information, and compliance with government regulations. Key components require vendors to provide their legal name, address, tax identification number, contact details, contract information, business type, socioeconomic statuses, DUNS number, and verification of registration with the Central Contractor Registration (CCR). This document ensures that the vendor meets specific requirements for doing business with the federal government by confirming their eligibility and compliance with procurement regulations. It also outlines that vendors must verify their registration on federal oversight sites to prevent administrative penalties. The information collected is critical for transparent and efficient management of vendor relationships and compliance with federal guidelines.
    The VA-FSC Vendor File Request Form is designed for vendors to establish or update their records within the VA's financial management system. The form requires the VA facility information, vendor type selection, and specific documentation based on the vendor category (e.g., commercial, individual, federal agency). Essential details include the vendor's Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), Social Security Number (SSN) or Tax Identification Number (TIN), bank information for electronic payments, and authorized representative details. Vendors must complete various fields, including current and previous addresses, and verify their registration status in the System for Award Management (SAM). The form submission, via secure fax, is expected to be processed within 3-5 business days. The document also emphasizes compliance with the Privacy Act of 1974, noting that submitted information is used by the Treasury Department for payment processing and that failure to provide required details may delay payments. This form reflects an important step in the government procurement process, aligning with federal requirements for vendor registration and financial transactions.
    The document outlines Form W-9, a crucial tax form required for U.S. persons to provide their Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to various requesters. It aims to prevent backup withholding, primarily affecting payments such as interest, dividends, and nonemployee compensation. The form includes sections for personal identification, such as name, address, and TIN, and a certification section where the signer attests to the accuracy of the supplied information. Key components include guidelines on who should complete the form, how to apply for a TIN, and the implications of incorrect or missing TINs, which can result in penalties. The document also delineates the categories of exempt payees, such as certain government entities and tax-exempt organizations, and explains backup withholding rules. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of safeguarding personal information and provides resources for individuals facing identity theft. This information is particularly relevant in the context of government requests for proposals (RFPs) and grants, where accurate taxpayer identification is essential for compliance and financial transactions.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Sources Sought
    Similar Opportunities
    V999--Bus Transportation Services
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is soliciting proposals for bus transportation services to support the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, with a total award amount of $19 million. This firm-fixed-price contract is exclusively set aside for small businesses and aims to provide reliable transportation for veterans and their caregivers to medical appointments from 2025 through 2030, with options for contract extension. The contractor will be responsible for ensuring safe transport, maintaining operational efficiency, and adhering to safety regulations, while implementing a Quality Assurance Plan and managing driver qualifications. Interested vendors must submit their proposals by September 23, 2024, at 3 PM Pacific Time, and can contact Contract Specialist Danielle Carroll at danielle.carroll4@va.gov for further information.
    R702--PBM Drug Pricing Database [VA-25-00000408]
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking proposals for a subscription service to access Pharmacy Average Wholesale Pricing (AWP) data, aimed at ensuring compliance with federal regulations regarding pharmacy agreements with third-party payers and pharmacy benefit managers. This service is critical for the VA to assess whether reimbursement rates proposed by PBMs meet federal requirements, thereby maximizing revenue streams while adhering to legal standards. The contract is set for one year, starting in December 2024, with an option for four additional years, and has an estimated budget of approximately $19.5 million. Interested vendors must submit their proposals by October 1, 2024, and can contact Contract Specialist Orangella Bittick at Orangella.Bittick@va.gov or (314) 894-6460 for further information.
    Q301--VISN 04 Reference Laboratory Testing Services (9 Facilites)
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking proposals for Reference Laboratory Testing Services across nine facilities within the VISN 04 network. The procurement aims to establish a Fixed-Priced Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, valued at approximately $41.5 million, to enhance laboratory testing capabilities for veterans from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2029. This initiative is crucial for ensuring timely and accurate diagnostic services, thereby improving healthcare outcomes for veterans. Interested vendors, particularly those classified as Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), must submit their proposals by April 25, 2024, and direct any inquiries to Amanda Saunders at amanda.saunders@va.gov or (412) 822-3731.
    7290-- Building 59A Art Procurement
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking qualified vendors for the procurement of art for Building 59A at the Coatesville VA Medical Center in Pennsylvania. This project aims to enhance the therapeutic environment within the facility by acquiring behavioral health-grade artwork and installation services, with contractors required to manage the design, order, delivery, and installation while adhering to safety protocols. The solicitation, classified under product service code 7290 and NAICS code 339999, is set aside for small businesses, with proposals due by September 24, 2024, at 11 AM Eastern Time. Interested parties should contact Contract Specialist Jud Kale at judson.kale@va.gov for further information and must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) to be eligible for contract award.
    H945--DA Tank Magnetic Particle Testing
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs is soliciting proposals for the DA Tank Magnetic Particle Testing project at the Battle Creek VA Medical Center. This procurement requires the contractor to perform cleaning, inspection, and testing of the deaerator tank in compliance with VA regulations, which necessitate third-party inspections every six years. The contract is specifically set aside for veteran-owned small businesses (VOSB) and mandates the use of certified technicians for non-destructive testing methods, including wet magnetic particle and ultrasonic testing, while adhering to strict scheduling and safety protocols. The total award amount for this solicitation is approximately $19 million, with offers due by September 23, 2024. Interested parties can contact Contract Specialist Margaret R Thompson at margaret.thompson@va.gov for further information.
    Q701--Cancer Registry Abstracting Services in support of the Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) 20, Multiple Sites within the Pacific Northwest
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs is soliciting proposals for Cancer Registry Abstracting Services to support the Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) 20, which encompasses multiple sites in the Pacific Northwest. The contract, valued at $24.5 million, aims to provide essential services including case finding, data entry, and compliance with the Commission on Cancer Registry standards, while ensuring strict adherence to cybersecurity protocols for veteran data. This procurement is particularly significant as it is set aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs), reflecting the government's commitment to supporting veteran-owned enterprises. Proposals are due by 5 PM EST on September 26, 2024, and interested parties should direct inquiries to Contracting Officer Jennifer Robles at jennifer.robles1@va.gov or by phone at 253-888-4923.
    G004--NEW REQUIREMENT/HEALTHCARE FOR HOMELESS VETERANS- RESPITE/NEW BASE PLUS FOUR (VA-25-00004914)
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking proposals for a contract to provide Medical Respite Residential Services for homeless veterans in Columbia, South Carolina. The contract, which spans five years from October 15, 2024, to October 14, 2029, aims to offer recuperative care, including room and board for up to five veterans daily, alongside essential medical services such as on-site nursing and medication management. This initiative is crucial for ensuring safe housing and continuity of care for vulnerable veterans transitioning from homelessness, with a total award amount of $19 million. Interested parties should contact Contracting Specialist William Prenzler via email at william.prenzler@va.gov for further details and must comply with all solicitation requirements, including the recent amendment regarding inspection prerequisites.
    R499--Release of Information Services for VASNHCS
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking proposals for Release of Information Services for the Veterans Affairs Sierra Nevada Health Care System (VASNHCS). This procurement is specifically aimed at Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) and requires contractors to provide labor, materials, and equipment necessary for the orderly release of medical information while ensuring compliance with privacy laws such as HIPAA and the Privacy Act. The contract, valued at approximately $40 million, will span from November 8, 2024, to November 7, 2029, with options for renewal and extension. Interested parties must submit their quotes electronically by September 20, 2024, and can direct inquiries to Contract Specialist Jill Williams at jill.williams@va.gov or by phone at 702-001-5380.
    G099--Low Demand Safe Haven Program
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking proposals for the Low Demand Safe Haven Program, aimed at providing transitional housing for homeless veterans with severe mental illnesses in the Baltimore area. This program is designed to serve veterans who are hard to reach and may be unwilling or unable to engage with traditional services, offering a low-barrier, non-threatening environment that focuses on stabilization and gradual reintegration into supportive services. The contract includes provisions for 24/7 staffing, meals, medication monitoring, and individual case management, with a total compensation of up to $19 million over a base year and four optional extensions. Interested vendors must submit their proposals by September 20, 2024, at 4:00 PM Eastern Time, and can contact Veronica B. Dillard at veronica.dillard@va.gov for further inquiries.
    Q403-- MDE 2025 Regions 1-4 Recompete AMENDMENT 0005
    Active
    Veterans Affairs, Department Of
    The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking proposals for the recompete of the Medical Disability Examinations (MDE) contract for Regions 1-4, with an estimated contract value of $16 million. The procurement aims to engage contractors to provide comprehensive medical evaluations for veterans, ensuring adherence to quality standards and regulatory compliance in the assessment process. These examinations are critical for determining veterans' eligibility for disability benefits, reflecting the government's commitment to delivering timely and effective healthcare services to service members. Interested vendors must submit their proposals by 09:00 AM ET on September 23, 2024, and can direct inquiries to Jennifer Benisek at Jennifer.Benisek@va.gov or Corey Mann at Corey.Mann@va.gov.