Therapeutic Foster Care Services

The County of Orange Health Care Agency is soliciting proposals under RFP 042-2921007-CL for Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) services. These services provide a home-based alternative to institutional settings for Medi-Cal eligible children and youth under age 21 who meet medical necessity criteria for Specialized Mental Health Services. The contractor must maintain at least one fully licensed facility meeting Medi-Cal eligibility requirements and adhere to strict clinical standards, including the use of Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) and Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC)-35 assessments. The contract term is scheduled from July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028. Proposals must be submitted electronically via the County's eProcurement Portal by December 1, 2026. The evaluation process consists of two phases: a written proposal scored out of 900 points and a potential interview or presentation scored out of 100 points. Awarding is based on the most advantageous proposal, with specific cost preferences of 5% for certified Local Small Business (OCLSB) or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) firms, and 8% for those with dual certification. The contractor must comply with extensive regulatory requirements, including HIPAA/HITECH Act standards, 2 CFR Part 376 regarding debarment, and California labor codes regarding prevailing wages. Technical requirements include the ability to produce DHCS compliant 837P transactions and utilize ONC-certified EHR platforms supporting FHIR standards. Performance is measured by BHT measures and Consumer Perception Surveys, with a target of 80% agreement regarding cultural sensitivity and social connectedness. Monthly screenings of personnel against GSA, HHS/OIG, and Medi-Cal ineligible provider lists are mandatory.