AgencyforHealthcare Research and Quality, Diviision of Contracts Management, Executive Office Center, Suite 601, 2101 East Jefferson Street, Rockville, MD 20852

A -- BIOTERRORISM INITIATIVE SOL AHRQ-00-0009 POC Sharon Williams, Contracting Officer, Telephone: 301-594-7192; E-mail: swilliam@ahrq.gov; Fax: 301-443-7523 The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) of the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is soliciting proposals (on a full and open competitive basis) for task order contracts (1) to describe and evaluate approaches to preparedness for bioterrorism that are based upon information systems, and (2) to determine the best ways to train clinicians to manage rare events, specifically including the possible consequences of bioterrorism, in order to fulfill the legislative mandate of AHRQ. The threat of bioterrorist attacks has stimulated broadly-based planning by DHHS. DHHS plans involve various elements of the public health and medical care systems in preparing for and responding to weapons of mass destruction. Sources must have an understanding of and, preferably, experience in, health services research. Sources must also possess, or be able to obtain (in-house or through subcontracting arrangements), the staff and other resources needed to expeditiously carry out the different types of activities listed above. Multiple contract awards may be made. The period of performance is anticipated to be for a one-year base period, with optional periods. It is estimated that the solicitation will be available approximately June 12, 2000, with proposals due approximately 30 days thereafter. The solicitation and any documents related to this procurement will only be available by downloading from the Internet on our Agency internet site at: http://www.ahrq.gov/fund It is the offeror's responsibility to monitor the Internet site for the release of the RFP. Potential offerors will be responsible for downloading their own copy of the RFP and amendments (if any). Posted 05/25/00 (W-SN458674). (0146)

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