Applied Research

The contract involves the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), specifically the Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (SAMH), seeking a Florida-based post-secondary institution accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to provide applied research services related to opioid abatement strategies funded by Florida’s Opioid Settlement Trust Fund. The scope includes conducting surveillance, delivering innovative solutions, and generating research results to help the Department understand current and future program needs, evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, assess policy impacts, and measure return on investments. The solicitation, identified as RFP-07478, was posted on December 19, 2023, with a response deadline of April 10, 2024. The contract emphasizes compliance with Florida statutes, includes provisions for amendments such as addendums extending timelines for vendor questions, and incorporates detailed performance measures, scope of work, and payment terms outlined in multiple exhibits. The contractual framework is a standard agreement that specifies the engagement terms, effective and termination dates, payment conditions, and notice procedures. It references multiple exhibits that detail the scope of work, deliverables, and performance standards, with provisions for contract renewal, adjustments based on service volume, and adherence to state purchasing rules. The contract also incorporates the MyFloridaMarketPlace transaction fee and emphasizes prompt payment requirements. Overall, the agreement aims to formalize the partnership with a qualified Florida institution to support the Department’s efforts in addressing opioid-related issues through rigorous applied research and innovative solutions, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and clear performance expectations.