Graduate Medical Education Incentive Program for Opioid and Substance Use Disorders

The Florida Department of Children and Families, through its Office of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, is issuing a solicitation to establish a Graduate Medical Education Incentive Program focused on addressing Opioid Use Disorder and co-occurring Substance Use and Mental Health conditions within Florida. The program aims to incentivize eligible entities to designate and repurpose accredited GME slots in areas such as addiction medicine, addiction psychiatry, pain medicine, or related residency programs. The goal is to enhance specialized training and learning opportunities for healthcare professionals serving populations affected by these disorders, thereby supporting workforce development and retention in these critical fields. The contract size ranges from 500,000 to 2 million dollars, with a response deadline of September 4, 2024, and the primary point of contact being Joseph Ruis. The initiative aligns with broader state efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and improve mental health services by expanding GME opportunities tailored to these needs. The contractual framework emphasizes compliance with state procurement rules, performance standards, and deliverables detailed in multiple exhibits, including scope of work and performance measures. Payments are contingent upon meeting specified conditions, with provisions for contract renewal, modifications, and adherence to Florida statutes. The overarching purpose is to foster the development of a specialized healthcare workforce equipped to address substance use and mental health challenges, ultimately improving treatment outcomes and access for Florida residents. This comprehensive approach underscores the state's commitment to leveraging GME resources as a strategic tool in its public health response to the ongoing opioid crisis and related disorders.