Hospital Sitting Services

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, through the Health and Human Services Commission, is conducting an open enrollment for Hospital Sitting Services under solicitation HHS0015911. The contract seeks qualified applicants to provide continuous, awake supervision for children under DFPS conservatorship who are hospitalized in facilities across Texas and lack available caregivers. The period of performance is five years, running from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2030. Services are billed at a fixed rate of $40 per hour for both hospital sitting and court services. Qualified contractors must demonstrate at least two years of service and financial management experience and maintain specific insurance coverages, including Commercial General Liability with a Sexual Molestation and Abuse endorsement and a Crime Policy. Personnel requirements are strict: sitters must be at least 21 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, have one year of experience working with children, and complete Trauma-Informed Care Child Welfare training within 15 days of hire. Additionally, all staff must pass annual background checks and TB screenings. The award process is based on a best-value trade-off focusing on past performance, financial resources, and the ability to perform. Applicants must submit a consolidated electronic packet consisting of two file folders containing the application, insurance documentation, and various state-mandated forms. Administrative compliance is managed through specific Texas state forms for invoicing and direct deposit, and contractors are prohibited from providing medical or nursing care or working more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period.