Writing a solicitation to identify a provider to build and/or operate a comprehensive crisis response center is a complex endeavor that requires a thorough review of the current crisis continuum in the community to identify any existing gaps and barriers. Before writing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a crisis center response, local stakeholders must carefully consider the questions they will pose to potential respondents. These questions are crucial for ensuring that the selected provider aligns with community needs, adheres to national standards, and demonstrates a clear approach to care.
Before releasing an RFP, evaluators must ensure several critical considerations are addressed. First, they need to identify the largest gaps and pain points in their current crisis continuum and assess available data to highlight strengths and opportunities for improvement. It's essential to clarify how the proposed scope of services will address these gaps, particularly regarding the acuity of the population served. Evaluators must determine if the crisis center will accept both voluntary and involuntary patients, especially those diverted from the criminal justice system, and ensure proper resources are in place for all acuity levels.
Additionally, decisions about serving youth and adult populations, meeting state or county staffing requirements, and outlining the specific services to be offered must be determined. These considerations ensure the RFP is clear, targeted, and capable of soliciting providers equipped to meet the community’s needs.
Once decided, here are the top five questions to include in the clinical scope of services section of the RFP:
- Describe in detail how your organization will fulfill the RFP’s scope of services, including any areas of model variation.
- Outline the intake process for various individuals that will come to the center.
- Demonstrate your organization and staff’s experience providing the services requested.
- Describe the roles of all clinical personnel.
- Detail your organization’s staffing protocols to safely operate.
Next time we dive into the financial sustainability section of an RFP, discussing what should be determined before the RFP release and what questions should be posed to ensure the responding providers can successfully fund and sustain the center’s ongoing operations.
SOURCE: Building a safe place to go solicitation insights-Connections Health Solutions
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