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Questions already answered for this Invitation to Bid will show below.


Q: I would like to confirm that our intended submission format would be considered a responsive submission within the terms of the ITB format. This question applies generally to all ITBs for the RHC program in FY2020 posted on the ADS website. In the "Additional Information" section, the ITB format states: "Existing contracts may exist and may be used as bid responses if proposed by the incumbent service provider and allowable under program rules. Please include a cover letter outlining the historical flow of related funding requests so that the logic behind your offer is easily demonstrated." For RHC participants with existing contracts that cover FY2020, or partially cover the funding year and contain extension clauses, we may choose to respond to the ITB based upon this guidance. A response would include a cover letter, historical flow of related funding requests, copy of the contract, and a proposed extension, if applicable. We would not submit a SPAR or any other documentation in order to avoid introducing any new content that was not included in the original competitive bidding process for the contract. For any services requested that are not covered under the existing contract, we would offer a second, full ITB response with a new proposal, including new pricing and supporting information requested in the ITB. Would this submission format be considered responsive to the ITB format for RHC participants with existing contracts?
A: Yes. The intent of ITB is to provide information that helps determine the most cost effective solution(s) and Bethel Family Clinic expects the service providers to comply with all program rules in submitting their response as it pertains to new services or with respect to current contractual obligations and/or options.

Q: General Announcement
A: An extension is appropriate given the extenuating circumstances. We shall remain focused on completing 2020 applications for support so that services can be deployed and funding decisions may be issued in a timely manner. The due date for this ITB is: 04/14/2020.

Q: General Announcement
A: If possible respond by the EARLIEST DATE listed (most likely the 465 date). In this case: 04/05/2020. ITBs have been posted on www.adsadsi.com in accordance with the 465 posting – meaning a 28 day period has been observed. Obviously it takes USAC time to review and post 461s. All ACSDs shall be observed. Please submit your response as soon as possible so that the applicant has as much time as possible to review, complete evaluations, request, receive, and authorize contracts. We realize everyone is extremely busy and appreciate your efforts in making timely replies.

Q: Please define the Z location for the transport. Are you trying to connect to a particular medical cloud at ANTHC, Providence, or other site.
A: Correct, the circuit termination location or Z location is a "Medical Cloud" designed to be resilient, highly available and hardened. The purpose of the Medical Cloud is to provide connectivity and transport to various Healthcare Providers, Partners and Information required to provide services within the community in which the applicant serves.

Q: General Announcement
A: To make clear, the HCP Number for Bethel Family Clinic is 10892, as listed in the 461 and in the ITB. This information can be found in the SPAR Page 12 of 16) and we'll make it available on page 13 of 16 as well.

Q: GCI intends to respond to this ITB.
A: Thanks for your interest.

Q: Testing Q/A Functionality.
A: Q/A Functionality Working Fine. Please Remember: Include estimated latency. Use Cover Letters (examples are available on http://adsadsi.com/itb_year_23.shtml). The bid period shall be the period USAC identifies after posting the associated 461(s) and 465(s). Offers shall be due by 11:59:59PM local standard time on the date identified by USAC - meaning there will probably be different due dates for the various services sought. It is acceptable to submit all offers and responses by the earliest due date - this would assure all due dates are met. The applicant does not intent to extend due dates. If unsure of due dates, check the appropriate Form(s).