Rural Health Transformation Program - Centralized Tool to Guide Interfacility Transfers

Vermont is seeking a qualified organization to lead a critical 11-month initiative under its Rural Health Transformation Program, aiming to develop a centralized tool to coordinate interfacility patient transfers across the state. This effort is part of a larger $195 million federal grant aimed at strengthening rural health networks, improving technology integration, and ensuring equitable, affordable care delivery. The selected contractor will be responsible for conducting a full feasibility assessment, crafting a statewide operating model, establishing a governance framework, designing a sustainable transportation capacity plan aligned with the Statewide EMS Strategy, creating a technology and interoperability roadmap, and implementing a performance measurement system—all with the goal of enhancing patient flow, optimizing system capacity, and improving outcomes in underserved rural areas. The project must begin on September 1, 2026, and conclude by July 31, 2027, with potential for four one-year extensions pending approval from the Agency of Human Services and CMS. The solicitation, issued under the NAICS code 541512 and identified by solicitation number 73919, requires full compliance with federal and state regulations, including SAM registration, a valid UEI, and adherence to the Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment for contracts over $100,000. Applicants must demonstrate proven experience in statewide health planning, care coordination, and interoperability initiatives, with strong emphasis on stakeholder engagement across hospitals, EMS agencies, community organizations, and state partners. Proposals will be evaluated on qualifications, comprehensiveness of plan, partnership strength, sustainability strategy, performance metrics, cost reasonableness, and prioritization of rural communities. All submissions must be completed via a Microsoft Form and include a detailed budget workbook, W-9 form, and any relevant NICRA or partnership letters. Data security and privacy are strictly enforced, with contractors required to comply with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, Vermont’s Security Breach Act, and other state and federal data protection laws, while also providing full indemnification for breaches. Financial reporting must follow a standardized quarterly Excel workbook provided by AHS, and all information submitted is subject to public disclosure under Vermont’s Public Records Act. Contractors must supply their own equipment and are obligated to correct any errors or breaches at no cost to the state.