NICHE - Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders

This intent to sole source announcement is posted in accordance with FAR 5.2 - Synopses of Proposed Contract Actions. Objective The Washington DC VA Medical Center has a requirement to fulfill the integration of the Nursing Professional Practice model and continue on the journey to a high reliability organization. This journey requires continuing education to serve specialized populations one of which is seniors and elders who represent a large portion of the VA population. Unique Qualifications The Washington DC Nursing Service selected the NICHE model in 2016 to meet several of these requirements including the Secretary s Blueprint for Excellence and Mission of the VA to meet the care of veterans in this growing population. This selection was made based on the organization s alignment with both the Evidence Based Practice model-ARCC-used by the service, care delivery model of patient and family centered care, and our professional practice model developed by staff. The NICHE membership includes specific training for leaders to support this culture change and the resources and education for staff throughout a year long membership at no additional cost. This education is CEU accredited and will offer staff the credits they need to meet licensure and continuing education requirements for professional development. The resources provide up-to-date information in a format that is easily accessible for all and supports the integration of the model into projects and planning to continue to meet the special needs of this population of veterans. NICHE is the leading nurse driven program designed to help hospitals and healthcare organizations improve the care of older adults. The vision of NICHE is for all patients 65 and over to be given sensitive and exemplary care. The veteran population over the age of 65 is growing exponentially as do the needs be able to serve this population to meet the mission of the VA. Award information The incumbent contractor shall be provided with the opportunity to present a quote that shall be accepted as a firm fixed price agreement at the lowest price technically acceptable (LPTA). The Government anticipates the Independent Cost Estimate shall be developed and comparable with the current market to justify fair and reasonable pricing. The contemplated period of performance is September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2030 (base + three option years) If anyone requests additional information or would like to obtain a copy of the statement of work (SOW) for more details, please contact: Cassie (KC) White cassie.white@va.gov