[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 121 (Tuesday, June 23, 2020)]
[Notices]
[Pages 37676-37684]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-13470]
[[Page 37676]]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Indian Health Service
Office of Direct Service and Contracting Tribes; Tribal
Management Grant Program
Announcement Type: New and Competing Continuation.
Funding Announcement Number: HHS-2020-IHS-TMD-0001.
Assistance Listing (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance or CFDA)
Number: 93.228.
Key Dates
Application Deadline Date: August 24, 2020.
Earliest Anticipated Start Date: September 8, 2020.
I. Funding Opportunity Description
Statutory Authority
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is accepting applications for
grants for the Tribal Management Grant (TMG) Program. This program is
authorized under 25 U.S.C. 5322(b)(2) and 25 U.S.C. 5322(e) of the
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA), Public
Law (Pub. L.) 93-638, as amended. This program is described in the
Assistance Listings located at https://beta.sam.gov (formerly known as
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance) under 93.228.
Background
The TMG Program is a competitive grant program that is capacity
building and developmental in nature and has been available for
federally-recognized Indian Tribes and Tribal Organizations (T/TOs)
since shortly after enactment of the ISDEAA in 1975. The TMG Program
was established to assist T/TOs to prepare for assuming all or part of
existing IHS programs, functions, services, and activities (PFSAs), and
to further develop and improve Tribal health management capabilities.
The TMG Program provides competitive grants to T/TOs to: Establish
goals and performance measures for current health programs; assess
current management capacity to determine if new components are
appropriate; analyze programs to determine if a T/TO's management is
practicable; and develop infrastructure systems to manage or organize
PFSAs.
Purpose
The purpose of this IHS grant program is to enhance and develop
health management infrastructure and assist T/TOs in assuming all or
part of existing IHS PFSAs through a Title I ISDEAA contract and assist
established Title I ISDEAA contractors and Title V ISDEAA compactors to
further develop and improve management capability. In addition, Tribal
Management Grants are available to T/TOs under the authority of 25
U.S.C. 5322(e) for the following: (1) Obtaining technical assistance
from providers designated by the T/TO (including T/TOs that operate
mature contracts) for the purposes of program planning and evaluation,
including the development of any management systems necessary for
contract management, and the development of cost allocation plans for
indirect cost rates; and (2) planning, designing, monitoring, and
evaluating Federal programs serving T/TOs, including Federal
administrative functions.
II. Award Information
Funding Instrument
Grant.
Estimated Funds Available
The total funding identified for fiscal year (FY) 2020 is
approximately $2,465,000.00. Individual award amounts for the first
budget year are anticipated to be between $50,000 and $150,000. The
funding available for competing and subsequent continuation awards
issued under this announcement is subject to the availability of
appropriations and budgetary priorities of the Agency. The IHS is under
no obligation to make awards that are selected for funding under this
announcement.
Anticipated Number of Awards
Approximately 14-16 awards will be issued under this program
announcement.
Period of Performance
The period of performance is for 1 to 3 years. The Tribal
Management Grant (TMG Project) period of performance varies based on
the project type selected. Please refer to Section III Eligibility
Information, ``Eligible TMG Project Types, Maximum Funding Levels, and
Periods of Performance'' for additional details.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligibility
``Indian Tribes'' and ``Tribal Organizations'' (T/TOs), as defined
by the ISDEAA, are eligible to apply for the TMG Program. The
definitions for each entity type are outlined below. Only one
application per T/TO is allowed.
A federally-recognized Indian Tribe as defined by 25
U.S.C. 5304(e). The term ``Indian Tribe'' means any Indian Tribe, band,
nation, or other organized group or community, including any Alaska
Native village or group or regional or village corporation as defined
in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act
(85 Stat. 688) [43 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.], which is recognized as
eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United
States to Indians because of their status as Indians.
A Tribal organization as defined by 25 U.S.C. 5304(l). The
term ``Tribal organization'' means the recognized governing body of any
Indian Tribe; any legally established organization of Indians which is
controlled, sanctioned, or chartered by such governing body or which is
democratically elected by the adult members of the Indian community to
be served by such organization and which includes the maximum
participation of Indians in all phases of its activities: Provided
that, in any case where a contract is let or grant made to an
organization to perform services benefiting more than one Indian Tribe,
the approval of each such Indian Tribe shall be a prerequisite to the
letting or making of such contract or grant.
Tribes prohibited under the Alaska Moratorium from
receiving funds pursuant to the ISDEAA are not eligible for TMG. See
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014, Public Law 113-76, as amended by
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018, Public Law 115-141, and
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2020, Public Law 116-94.
Note: Please refer to Section IV.2 (Application and Submission
Information/Subsection 2, Content and Form of Application
Submission) for additional proof of applicant status documents
required, such as Tribal resolutions, proof of non-profit status,
etc.
Eligible TMG Project Types, Maximum Funding Levels, and Project
Periods: The TMG Program consists of four project types: (1)
Feasibility study; (2) planning; (3) evaluation study; and (4) health
management structure. Applicants may submit applications for one
project type only. An application must state the project type selected.
Any application that addresses more than one project type will be
considered ineligible and will not be reviewed. The maximum funding
levels noted must include both direct and indirect costs. Application
budgets may not exceed the maximum funding level or period of
performance identified for a project type. Any application with a
budget or period of performance that exceeds the maximum funding level
or period of performance will be considered
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ineligible and will not be reviewed. Please refer to Section IV.5,
``Funding Restrictions,'' for further information regarding ineligible
project activities.
1. FEASIBILITY STUDY (Maximum Funding/Project Period: $70,000/12
Months)
A feasibility study must include a study of a specific IHS program
or segment of a program to determine if Tribal management of the
program is possible. The study shall present the planned approach,
training, and resources required to assume Tribal management of the
program. The study must include the following four components:
Health needs and health care service assessments that
identify existing health care services and delivery systems, program
divisibility issues, health status indicators, unmet needs, volume
projections, and demand analysis.
Management analysis of existing management structures,
proposed management structures, implementation plans and requirements,
and personnel staffing requirements and recruitment barriers.
Financial analysis of historical trends data, financial
projections, and new resource requirements for program management costs
and analysis of potential revenues from Federal/non-Federal sources.
Decision statement/report that incorporates findings;
conclusions; and recommendations; the presentation of the study and
recommendations to the Tribal governing body for determination
regarding whether Tribal program assumption is desirable or warranted.
2. PLANNING (Maximum Funding/Project Period: $50,000/12 Months)
Planning projects involve data collection to establish goals and
performance measures for health programs operation or anticipated PFSAs
under a Title I contract. Planning projects will specify the design of
health programs and the management systems (including appropriate
policies and procedures) to accomplish the health priorities of the T/
TO. For example, planning projects could include the development of a
Tribe-specific health plan or a strategic health plan, etc. Please note
that updated Healthy People information and Healthy People 2020
objectives are available in electronic format at the following website:
https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives. The United States
(U.S.) Public Health Service (PHS) encourages applicants submitting
strategic health plans to address specific objectives of Healthy People
2020.
3. EVALUATION STUDY (Maximum Funding/Project Period: $50,000/12 Months)
An evaluation study must include a systematic collection, analysis,
and interpretation of data for the purpose of determining the value of
a program. Include a logic model for designing and managing the project
as an attachment. A logic model is a one-page diagram that presents the
conceptual framework for a proposed project and explains the links
among program elements to achieve the relevant outcomes. The extent of
the evaluation study logic model could summarize the connections
between the goals of the project (e.g., objectives, reasons for
proposing the program); assumptions (e.g., beliefs about how the
program will work and support resources. Base assumptions on best
practices, and experience); inputs (e.g., organizational profile,
collaborative partners, key staff, budget, other resources); target
population (e.g., the individuals to be served); activities (e.g.,
approach, listing key activities); outputs (i.e., the direct products
or deliverables of program activities); and outcomes (i.e., the results
of a program, typically describing a change in people or systems). The
evaluation study could also be used to determine the effectiveness and
efficiency of a T/TO's program operations (i.e., direct services,
financial management, personnel, data collection and analysis, third-
party billing, etc.), as well as to determine the appropriateness of
new components of a T/TO's program operations that will assist efforts
to improve Tribal health care delivery systems.
4. HEALTH MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE (Average Funding/Project Period:
$100,000/12 Months; Maximum Funding/Project Period: $300,000/36 Months)
The first year maximum funding level is limited to $150,000 for
multi-year projects. The Health Management Structure component allows
for implementation of systems to manage or organize PFSAs. Management
structures include health department organizations, health boards, and
financial management systems, including systems for accounting,
personnel, third-party billing, medical records, management information
systems, etc. This includes the design, improvement, and correction of
management systems that address weaknesses identified through quality
control measures, internal control reviews, and audit report findings
under required financial audits and ISDEAA requirements.
For the minimum standards for the management systems used by a T/TO
when carrying out Self-Determination contracts, please see 25 CFR part
900, Contracts Under the Indian Self-Determination and Education
Assistance Act, subpart F--``Standards for Tribal or Tribal
Organization Management Systems,'' Sec. Sec. 900.35-900.60. For
operational provisions applicable to carrying out Self-Governance
compacts, please see 42 CFR part 137, Tribal Self-Governance, subpart
I,--``Operational Provisions,'' Sec. Sec. 137.160-137.220.
2. Cost Sharing or Matching
The IHS does not require matching funds or cost sharing for grants
or cooperative agreements.
3. Other Requirements
Applications with budget requests that exceed the highest dollar
amount outlined under Section II Award Information, Estimated Funds
Available, or exceed the Period of Performance outlined under Section
II Award Information, Period of Performance will be considered not
responsive and will not be reviewed. The Division of Grants Management
(DGM) will notify the applicant.
Additional Required Documentation
A. Federally-recognized Indian Tribes applying for technical
assistance and/or training grants must provide a Tribal resolution; or
a designated Tribal Organization applying on behalf of the Indian Tribe
and/or Tribes it intends to serve must also provide a Tribal
resolution.
B. Documentation for Priority I participation requires a copy of
the Federal Register notice or letter from the Bureau of Indian Affairs
verifying establishment of recognized Tribal status within the past 5
years. The date on the documentation must reflect that Federal
recognition was received during or after March 2015.
C. Documentation for Priority II participation requires a copy of
the most current transmittal letter and Attachment A from the
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Inspector
General (OIG), National External Audit Review Center (NEAR). See
``Funding Priorities'' below for more information. If an applicant is
unable to provide a copy of the most recent transmittal letter or needs
assistance with audit issues, information or technical assistance may
be obtained by contacting the IHS Office of Finance and Accounting,
Division of
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Audit by telephone at (301) 443-1270, or toll-free at the NEAR help
line at (800) 732-0679 or (816) 426-7720. Recognized Indian Tribes or
Tribal Organizations not subject to Single Audit Act requirements must
provide a financial statement identifying the Federal dollars received
in the footnotes. The financial statement must also identify specific
weaknesses/recommendations related to 25 CFR part 900, subpart F--
``Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization Management Systems'' that
will be addressed in the TMG proposal.
D. Documentation of Consortium participation--If an applicant is a
member of an eligible intertribal consortium, the Tribe must:
Identify the consortium.
Indicate if any of the consortium member Tribes intend to
submit a TMG application.
Demonstrate that the Tribe's application does not
duplicate or overlap any objectives of the consortium's application.
Identify all consortium member Tribes.
Identify if any of the consortium member Tribes intend to
submit a TMG application of their own.
Demonstrate that the consortium's application does not
duplicate or overlap any objectives of other consortium members who may
be submitting their own TMG application.
Funding Priorities: The IHS has established the following funding
priorities for TMG awards:
PRIORITY I--Any Indian Tribe, or Tribal Organization
representing that Indian Tribe, that has received Federal recognition
(including restored, funded, or unfunded) within the past 5 years,
specifically received during or after March 2015, will be considered
Priority I.
PRIORITY II--T/TOs submitting a new application or a
competing continuation application for the sole purpose of addressing
audit material weaknesses will be considered Priority II.
Priority II participation is only applicable to the Health
Management Structure project type. For more information, see ``Eligible
TMG Project Types, Maximum Funding Levels, and Project Periods,'' in
Section II.
PRIORITY III--Eligible Direct Service and T/TOs with a
Title I ISDEAA contract with the IHS submitting a new application or a
competing continuation application will be considered Priority III.
PRIORITY IV--Eligible T/TOs with a Title V ISDEAA compact
with the IHS submitting a new application or a competing continuation
application will be considered Priority IV.
The funding of approved Priority I applicants will occur before the
funding of approved Priority II applicants. Priority II applicants will
be funded before approved Priority III applicants. Priority III
applicants will be funded before approved Priority IV applicants. Funds
will be distributed until depleted. The following definitions are
applicable to the PRIORITY II category:
Audit finding--deficiencies that the auditor is required by 45 CFR
75.516 to report in the schedule of findings and questioned costs.
Material weakness--``Statements on Auditing Standards 115'' defines
material weakness as a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in
internal control, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a
material misstatement of the entity's financial statements will not be
prevented, or detected and corrected on a timely basis.
Significant deficiency--``Statements on Auditing Standards 115,''
defines significant deficiency as a deficiency, or a combination of
deficiencies, in internal control that is less severe than a material
weakness, yet important enough to merit attention by those charged with
governance.
The audit findings are identified in Attachment A of the
transmittal letter received from the HHS/OIG/NEAR. Please identify the
material weaknesses to be addressed by underlining the item(s) listed
in Attachment A.
T/TOs not subject to Single Audit Act requirements must provide a
financial statement identifying the Federal dollars received in the
footnotes. The financial statement should also identify specific
weaknesses/recommendations that will be addressed in the TMG proposal
and that are related to 25 CFR part 900, subpart F, ``Standards for
Tribal and Tribal Organization Management Systems.''
Note: A decision to award a TMG does not represent a
determination from the IHS regarding the T/TO's eligibility to
contract for a specific PFSA under the ISDEAA. An application for a
TMG does not constitute a contract proposal.
Tribal Resolution
The DGM must receive an official, signed Tribal resolution
describing in detail the Tribe's permission to make decisions on behalf
of the Tribe's best interest concerning the grant prior to issuing a
Notice of Award (NoA) to any applicant selected for funding. An Indian
T/TO that is proposing a project affecting another Indian Tribe must
include resolutions from all affected Tribes to be served. However, if
an official, signed Tribal resolution cannot be submitted with the
application prior to the application deadline date, a draft Tribal
resolution must be submitted with the application by the deadline date
in order for the application to be considered complete and eligible for
review. The draft Tribal resolution is not in lieu of the required
signed resolution, but is acceptable until a signed resolution is
received. If an official signed Tribal resolution is not received by
DGM when funding decisions are made, then a NoA will not be issued to
that applicant and it will not receive IHS funds until it has submitted
a signed resolution to the Grants Management Specialist listed in this
funding announcement.
Proof of Non-Profit Status
Organizations claiming non-profit status must submit a current copy
of the 501(c)(3) Certificate with the application.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Obtaining Application Materials
The application package and detailed instructions for this
announcement are hosted on http://www.Grants.gov.
Please direct questions regarding the application process to Mr.
Paul Gettys at (301) 443-2114 or (301) 443-5204.
2. Content and Form Application Submission
The applicant must include the project narrative as an attachment
to the application package. Mandatory documents for all applicants
include:
Abstract (one page) summarizing the project.
Application forms:
1. SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance.
2. SF-424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs.
3. SF-424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.
Project Narrative (not to exceed 15 pages). See Section
IV.2.A Project Narrative for instructions.
1. Background information on the organization.
2. Proposed scope of work, objectives, and activities that provide
a description of what the applicant plans to accomplish.
Budget Justification and Narrative (not to exceed 5
pages). See Section IV.2.B Budget Narrative for instructions.
One-page Timeframe Chart.
Tribal Resolution(s).
Letters of Support from organization's Board of Directors
(if applicable).
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501(c)(3) Certificate (if applicable).
Biographical sketches for all Key Personnel.
Contractor/Consultant resumes or qualifications and scope
of work.
Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL).
Certification Regarding Lobbying (GG-Lobbying Form).
Copy of current Negotiated Indirect Cost rate (IDC)
agreement (required in order to receive IDC).
Organizational Chart (optional).
Documentation of current Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) Financial Audit (if applicable).
Acceptable forms of documentation include:
1. Email confirmation from Federal Audit Clearinghouse (FAC) that
audits were submitted; or
2. Face sheets from audit reports. Applicants can find these on the
FAC website: https://harvester.census.gov/facdissem/Main.aspx.
Public Policy Requirements
All Federal public policies apply to IHS grants and cooperative
agreements with the exception of the Discrimination Policy.
Requirements for Project and Budget Narratives
A. Project Narrative: This narrative should be a separate document
that is no more than 15 pages and must: (1) Have consecutively numbered
pages; (2) use black font 12 points or larger; (3) be single-spaced;
(4) and be formatted to fit standard letter paper (8-1/2 x 11 inches).
Be sure to succinctly answer all questions listed under the
evaluation criteria (refer to Section V.1, Evaluation Criteria) and
place all responses and required information in the correct section
noted below or they will not be considered or scored. If the narrative
exceeds the page limit, the application will be considered not
responsive and not be reviewed. The 15-page limit for the narrative
does not include the work plan, standard forms, Tribal resolutions,
budget, budget justifications, narratives, and/or other appendix items.
There are three parts to the narrative: Part 1--Program
Information; Part 2--Program Planning and Evaluation; and Part 3--
Program Report. See below for additional details about what must be
included in the narrative.
The page limits below are for each narrative and budget submitted.
Part 1: Program Information (Limit--2 Pages)
Section 1: Needs
Describe how the T/TO has determined the need to either enhance or
develop Tribal management capability to either assume PFSAs or not in
the interest of Self-Determination. Note the progression of previous
TMG projects/awards if applicable.
Part 2: Program Planning and Evaluation (Limit--11 Pages)
Section 1: Program Plans
Fully and clearly describe the direction the T/TO plans to take
with the selected TMG Project type in addressing their health
management infrastructure, including how the T/TO's plans to
demonstrate improved health and services to the community or
communities it serves. Include proposed timelines.
Section 2: Program Evaluation
Fully and clearly describe the improvements that will be made by
the T/TO that will impact their management capability or prepare them
for future improvements to their organization that will allow them to
manage their health care system and identify the anticipated or
expected benefits for the Tribe. Identify challenges related to program
objectives, work plan, project implementation, and achievement of the
proposed goals and objectives (e.g., program performance evaluation and
performance measurement requirements); challenges related to workforce
development, such as recruitment and retention and education and
training of paraprofessionals in high need and high demand areas;
resources and plans to resolve and overcome these challenges and
obstacles.
Describe how the applicant will monitor ongoing processes and
progress toward meeting goals and objectives of project; the approach
for utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data efforts to review
program outcomes; description of inputs (e.g., key evaluation staff and
organizational support, collaborative partners, budget, and other
resources). Key processes, and variables to be measured; expected
outcomes of the funded activities; and description of how all key
evaluative measures will be reported and disseminated.
Part 3: Program Report (Limit--2 Pages)
Section 1: Describe your organization's significant program
activities and accomplishments over the past five years associated with
the goals of this announcement.
Please identify and describe significant program achievements
associated with the delivery of quality health services. Provide a
comparison of the actual accomplishments to the goals established for
the project period, or if applicable, provide justification for the
lack of progress.
Section 2: Describe major activities over the past five years.
Please identify and summarize recent significant health related
project activities of the work done during the project period.
B. Budget Narrative (Limit--5 Pages)
Provide a budget narrative that explains the amounts requested for
each line item of the budget. The budget narrative should specifically
describe how each item will support the achievement of proposed
objectives. Be very careful about showing how each item in the
``Other'' category is justified. For subsequent budget years, the
narrative should highlight the changes from year 1 or clearly indicate
that there are no substantive budget changes during the period of
performance. Do NOT use the budget narrative to expand the project
narrative.
3. Submission Dates and Times
Applications must be submitted through Grants.gov by 11:59 p.m.
Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on the Application Deadline Date. Any
application received after the application deadline will not be
accepted for review. Grants.gov will notify the applicant via email if
the application is rejected. If technical challenges arise and
assistance is required with the application process, contact Grants.gov
Customer Support (see contact information at https://www.grants.gov).
If problems persist, contact Mr. Paul Gettys ([email protected]),
Acting Director, DGM, by telephone at (301) 443-2114 or (301) 443-5204.
Please be sure to contact Mr. Gettys at least ten days prior to the
application deadline. Please do not contact the DGM until you have
received a Grants.gov tracking number. In the event you are not able to
obtain a tracking number, call the DGM as soon as possible.
IHS will not acknowledge receipt of applications.
4. Intergovernmental Review
Executive Order 12372 requiring intergovernmental review is not
applicable to this program.
5. Funding Restrictions
Pre-award costs are allowable up to 90 days before the
start date of the
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award provided the costs are otherwise allowable if awarded. Pre-award
costs are incurred at the risk of the applicant.
The available funds are inclusive of direct and indirect
costs.
Only one grant will be awarded per applicant.
6. Electronic Submission Requirements
All applications must be submitted via Grants.gov. Please use the
http://www.Grants.gov website to submit an application. Find the
application by selecting the ``Search Grants'' link on the homepage.
Follow the instructions for submitting an application under the Package
tab. No other method of application submission is acceptable.
If the applicant cannot submit an application through Grants.gov, a
waiver must be requested. Prior approval must be requested and obtained
from Mr. Paul Gettys, Acting Director, DGM. A written waiver request
must be sent to [email protected] with a copy to
[email protected]. The waiver request must: (1) Be documented in
writing (emails are acceptable), before submitting an application by
some other method, and (2) include clear justification for the need to
deviate from the required application submission process.
Once the waiver request has been approved, the applicant will
receive a confirmation of approval email containing submission
instructions. A copy of the written approval must be included with the
application that is submitted to DGM. Applications that are submitted
without a copy of the signed waiver from the Director of the DGM will
not be reviewed. The Grants Management Officer of the DGM will notify
the applicant via email of this decision. Applications submitted under
waiver must be received by the DGM no later than 5:00 p.m., EDT, on the
Application Deadline Date. Late applications will not be accepted for
processing. Applicants that do not register for both the System for
Award Management (SAM) and Grants.gov and/or fail to request timely
assistance with technical issues will not be considered for a waiver to
submit an application via alternative method.
Please be aware of the following:
Please search for the application package in http://www.Grants.gov by entering the Assistance Listing (CFDA) number or the
Funding Opportunity Number. Both numbers are located in the header of
this announcement.
If you experience technical challenges while submitting
your application, please contact Grants.gov Customer Support (see
contact information at https://www.Grants.gov).
Upon contacting Grants.gov, obtain a tracking number as
proof of contact. The tracking number is helpful if there are technical
issues that cannot be resolved and a waiver from the agency must be
obtained.
Applicants are strongly encouraged not to wait until the
deadline date to begin the application process through Grants.gov as
the registration process for SAM and Grants.gov could take up to 20
working days.
Please follow the instructions on Grants.gov to include
additional documentation that may be requested by this funding
announcement.
Applicants must comply with any page limits described in
this funding announcement.
After submitting the application, the applicant will
receive an automatic acknowledgment from Grants.gov that contains a
Grants.gov tracking number. The IHS will not notify the applicant that
the application has been received.
Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)
Applicants and grantee organizations are required to obtain a DUNS
number and maintain an active registration in the SAM database. The
DUNS number is a unique 9-digit identification number provided by D&B,
which uniquely identifies each entity. The DUNS number is site
specific; therefore, each distinct performance site may be assigned a
DUNS number. Obtaining a DUNS number is easy, and there is no charge.
To obtain a DUNS number, please access the request service through
http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform, or call (866) 705-5711. The Federal
Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as amended
(``Transparency Act''), requires all HHS recipients to report
information on sub-awards. Accordingly, all IHS grantees must notify
potential first-tier sub-recipients that no entity may receive a first-
tier sub-award unless the entity has provided its DUNS number to the
prime grantee organization. This requirement ensures the use of a
universal identifier to enhance the quality of information available to
the public pursuant to the Transparency Act.
System for Award Management (SAM)
Organizations that are not registered with SAM must have a DUNS
number first, then access the SAM online registration through the SAM
home page at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ (U.S. organizations will also
need to provide an Employer Identification Number from the Internal
Revenue Service that may take an additional 2-5 weeks to become
active). Please see SAM.gov for details on the registration process and
timeline. Registration with the SAM is free of charge, but can take
several weeks to process. Applicants may register online at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/.
Additional information on implementing the Transparency Act,
including the specific requirements for DUNS and SAM, are available on
the IHS Grants Management, Policy Topics website: http://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/.
V. Application Review Information
Weights assigned to each section are noted in parentheses. The 15-
page narrative should include only the first year of activities;
information for multi-year projects should be included as an appendix.
See ``Multi-year Project Requirements'' at the end of this section for
more information. The narrative section should be written in a manner
that is clear to outside reviewers unfamiliar with prior related
activities of the applicant. It should be well organized, succinct, and
contain all information necessary for reviewers to understand the
project fully. Points will be assigned to each evaluation criteria
adding up to a total of 100 possible points. Points are assigned as
follows:
1. Evaluation Criteria
A. Introduction and Need for Assistance (20 Points)
(1) Describe the T/TO's current health operation. Include a list of
programs and services that are currently provided (e.g., federally
funded, State-funded, etc.), information regarding technologies
currently used (e.g., hardware, software, services, etc.), and identify
the source(s) of technical support for those technologies (i.e., Tribal
staff, Area office IHS, vendor, etc.). Include information regarding
whether the T/TO has a health department and/or health board and how
long it has been operating.
(2) Describe the population to be served by the proposed project.
Include the total number of eligible IHS beneficiaries currently using
the services.
(3) Describe the geographic location of the proposed project,
including any geographic barriers to health care users in the area to
be served.
(4) Identify all TMGs received since FY 2013, dates of funding, and
a summary of project accomplishments. State how previous TMG funds
facilitated the progression of health development relative to the
current proposed project. (Copies of reports will not be accepted.)
(5) Identify the eligible project type and priority group of the
applicant.
[[Page 37681]]
(6) Explain the need or reason for the proposed TMG project.
Identify specific weaknesses and gaps in service or infrastructure that
will be addressed by the proposal. Explain how these gaps and
weaknesses will be assessed.
(7) If the proposed TMG project includes information technology
(i.e., hardware, software, etc.), provide further information regarding
measures that have occurred or will occur to ensure the proposed
project will not create other gaps in services or infrastructure (e.g.,
negatively affect or impact IHS interface capability, Government
Performance and Results Act reporting requirements, contract reporting
requirements, Information Technology (IT) compatibility, etc.) if
applicable.
(8) Describe the effect of the proposed TMG project on current
programs (e.g., federally-funded, state-funded, etc.), and if
applicable, on current equipment (e.g., hardware, software, services,
etc.). Include the effect of the proposed project on planned or
anticipated programs and equipment.
(9) Address how the proposed TMG project relates to the purpose of
the TMG Program by addressing the appropriate description that follows.
Identify whether the T/TO is an IHS Title I contractor.
Address if the Self-Determination contract is a master contract of
several programs or if individual contracts are used for each program.
Include information regarding whether or not the T/TO participates in a
consortium contract (i.e., more than one Tribe participating in a
contract). Address what programs are currently provided through those
contracts and how the proposed TMG project will enhance the
organization's capacity to manage the contracts currently in place.
Identify if the T/TO is not an IHS Title I contractor.
Address how the proposed TMG project will enhance the organization's
management capabilities, what programs and services the organization is
currently seeking to contract and an anticipated date for contract.
Identify if the T/TO is an IHS Title V compactor. Address
when the T/TO entered into the compact and how the proposed project
will further enhance the organization's management capabilities.
B. Project Objective(s), Work Plan and Approach (40 Points)
(1) The proposed project objectives must be:
Measureable and (if applicable) quantifiable;
results-oriented;
time-limited.
Example: By installing new third-party billing software, the Tribe
proposes to increase the number of claims processed by 15 percent
within 12 months.
(2) For each objective, address how the proposed TMG project will
result in change or improvement in program operations or processes.
Also address what tangible products are expected from the project
(i.e., policies and procedures manual, health plan, etc.)
(3) Address the extent to which the proposed project will build
local capacity to provide, improve, or expand services that address the
needs of the target population.
(4) Submit a work plan in the Appendix that includes the following:
Provide action steps on a timeline for accomplishing the
proposed project objectives;
identify who will perform the action steps;
identify who will supervise the action steps taken;
identify tangible products that will be produced during
and at the end of the proposed project;
identify who will accept and/or approve work products
during the duration of the proposed TMG project and at the end of the
proposed project;
include a description of any training activities proposed.
This description will identify the target audience and training
personnel;
include work plan evaluation activities.
(5) If consultants or contractors will be used during the proposed
project, please complete the following information in their scope of
work. (If consultants or contractors will not be used, please make note
in this section):
Educational requirements;
desired qualifications and work experience;
expected work products to be delivered, including a
timeline. If potential consultants or contractors have already been
identified, please include a resume for each consultant or contractor
in the Appendix.
(6) Describe updates that will be required for the continued
success of the proposed TMG project (i.e., revision of policies/
procedures, upgrades, technical support, etc.). Include a timeline of
anticipated updates and source(s) of funding to conduct the update and/
or maintenance.
C. Program Evaluation (20 Points)
Each proposed objective requires an evaluation activity to assess
its progression and ensure completion. This should be included in the
work plan.
Describe the proposal's plan to evaluate project processes and
outcomes. Outcome evaluation relates to the results identified in the
objectives, and process evaluation relates to the work plan and
activities of the project.
(1) For outcome evaluation, describe:
The criteria for determining whether or not each objective
was met;
the data to be collected to determine whether the
objective was met;
data collection intervals;
who will be responsible for collecting the data and their
qualifications;
data analysis method;
how the results will be used.
(2) For process evaluation, describe:
The process for monitoring and assessing potential
problems, then identifying quality improvements;
who will be responsible for monitoring and managing
project improvements based on results of ongoing process improvements
and their qualifications;
provide details with regards to the ways ongoing
monitoring will be used to improve the project;
describe any products, such as manuals or policies, that
might be developed and how they might lend themselves to replication by
others;
how the T/TO will document what is learned throughout the
project period.
(3) Describe any additional evaluation efforts planned after the
grant period has ended.
(4) Describe the ultimate benefit to the T/TO that is expected to
result from this project. An example would be a T/TO's ability to
expand preventive health services because of increased billing and
third-party payments.
D. Organizational Capabilities, Key Personnel and Qualifications (15
Points)
This section outlines the T/TO's capacity to complete the proposal
outlined in the work plan. It includes the identification of personnel
responsible for completing tasks and the chain of responsibility for
completion of the proposed plan.
(1) Provide the organizational structure of the T/TO.
(2) Provide information regarding plans to obtain management
systems if a T/TO does not have an established management system
currently in place that complies with 25 CFR part 900, subpart F,
``Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization Management Systems.''
State if management systems are already in place and how long the
systems have been in place.
(3) Describe the ability of the T/TO to manage the proposed
project. Include
[[Page 37682]]
information regarding similarly sized projects in scope and financial
assistance as well as other grants and projects successfully completed.
(4) Describe equipment (e.g., fax machine, telephone, computer,
etc.) and facility space (i.e., office space) will be available for use
during the proposed project. Include information about any equipment
not currently available that will be purchased through the grant.
(5) List key project personnel and their titles in the work plan.
(6) Provide the position descriptions and resumes for all key
personnel in the Appendix. The included position descriptions should:
(1) Clearly describe each position's duties; and (2) indicate desired
qualifications and project associated experience. Each resume must
include a statement indicating that the proposed key personnel is
explicitly qualified to carry out the proposed project activities. If
no current candidate for a position exists please provide a statement
to that effect in the Appendix.
(7) If an individual is partially funded by this grant, indicate
the percentage of his or her time to be allocated to the project and
identify the resources used to fund the remainder of that individual's
salary.
(8) Address how the T/TO will sustain the proposal created
positions after the grant expires. Please indicate if the project
requires additional personnel (i.e., IT support, etc.). If no
additional personnel is required please indicate that in this section.
E. Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (5 Points)
(1) Provide a categorical budget for each of the 12-month budget
periods requested.
(2) If indirect costs are claimed, indicate and apply the current
negotiated rate to the budget. Include a copy of the rate agreement in
the Appendix.
(3) Provide a narrative justification explaining why each
categorical budget line item is necessary and relevant to the proposed
project. Include sufficient cost and other details to facilitate the
determination of cost allowability (e.g., equipment specifications,
etc.)
Multi-Year Project Requirements
Applications must include a brief project narrative and budget (one
additional page per year) addressing the developmental plans for each
additional year of the project. This attachment will not count as part
of the project narrative or the budget narrative.
Additional documents can be uploaded as Appendix Items in
Grants.gov:
Work plan, logic model and/or time line for proposed
objectives.
Position descriptions for key staff.
Resumes of key staff that reflect current duties.
Consultant or contractor proposed scope of work and letter
of commitment (if applicable).
Current Indirect Cost Agreement.
Organizational chart.
Map of area identifying project location(s).
Additional documents to support narrative (i.e. data
tables, key news articles, etc.).
2. Review and Selection
Each application will be prescreened for eligibility and
completeness as outlined in the funding announcement. Applications that
meet the eligibility criteria shall be reviewed for merit by the
Objective Review Committee (ORC) based on evaluation criteria.
Incomplete applications and applications that are not responsive to the
administrative thresholds will not be referred to the ORC and will not
be funded. The applicant will be notified of this determination.
Applicants must address all program requirements and provide all
required documentation.
3. Notifications of Disposition
All applicants will receive an Executive Summary Statement from the
IHS Office of Direct Service and Contracting Tribes (ODSCT) within 30
days of the conclusion of the ORC outlining the strengths and
weaknesses of their application. The summary statement will be sent to
the Authorizing Official identified on the face page (SF-424) of the
application.
A. Award Notices for Funded Applications
The Notice of Award (NoA) is the authorizing document for which
funds are dispersed to the approved entities and reflects the amount of
Federal funds awarded, the purpose of the grant, the terms and
conditions of the award, the effective date of the award, and the
budget/project period. Each entity approved for funding must have a
user account in GrantSolutions in order to retrieve the NoA. Please see
the Agency Contacts list in Section VII for the systems contact
information.
B. Approved But Unfunded Applications
Approved applications not funded due to lack of available funds
will be held for one year. If funding becomes available during the
course of the year, the application may be reconsidered.
Note: Any correspondence other than the official NoA executed
by an IHS grants management official announcing to the project
director that an award has been made to their organization is not an
authorization to implement their program on behalf of the IHS.
VI. Award Administration Information
1. Administrative Requirements
Grants are administered in accordance with the following
regulations and policies:
A. The criteria as outlined in this program announcement.
B. Administrative Regulations for Grants:
Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards,
located at 45 CFR part 75.
C. Grants Policy:
HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised 01/07.
D. Cost Principles:
Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, ``Cost
Principles,'' located at 45 CFR part 75, subpart E.
E. Audit Requirements:
Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards,
``Audit Requirements,'' located at 45 CFR part 75, subpart F.
2. Indirect Costs
This section applies to all recipients that request reimbursement
of indirect costs (IDC) in their application budget. In accordance with
HHS Grants Policy Statement, Part II-27, IHS requires applicants to
obtain a current IDC rate agreement, and submit it to DGM, prior to DGM
issuing an award. The rate agreement must be prepared in accordance
with the applicable cost principles and guidance as provided by the
cognizant agency or office. A current rate covers the applicable grant
activities under the current award's budget period. If the current rate
agreement is not on file with the DGM at the time of award, the IDC
portion of the budget will be restricted. The restrictions remain in
place until the current rate agreement is provided to the DGM.
Available funds are inclusive of direct and appropriate indirect
costs. Approved indirect funds are awarded as part of the award amount,
and no additional funds will be provided.
Generally, IDC rates for IHS grantees are negotiated with the
Division of Cost Allocation (DCA) https://rates.psc.gov/ or the
Department of Interior (Interior Business Center) https://ibc.doi.gov/ICS/tribal. For questions regarding the indirect cost policy, please
call the Grants Management Specialist listed
[[Page 37683]]
under ``Agency Contacts'' or the main DGM office at (301) 443-5204.
3. Reporting Requirements
The grantee must submit required reports consistent with the
applicable deadlines. Failure to submit required reports within the
time allowed may result in suspension or termination of an active
grant, withholding of additional awards for the project, or other
enforcement actions such as withholding of payments or converting to
the reimbursement method of payment. Continued failure to submit
required reports may result in one or both of the following: (1) The
imposition of special award provisions; and (2) the non-funding or non-
award of other eligible projects or activities. This requirement
applies whether the delinquency is attributable to the failure of the
grantee organization or the individual responsible for preparation of
the reports. Per DGM policy, all reports are required to be submitted
electronically by attaching them as a ``Grant Note'' in GrantSolutions.
Personnel responsible for submitting reports will be required to obtain
a login and password for GrantSolutions. Please see the Agency Contacts
list in section VII for the systems contact information.
The reporting requirements for this program are noted below.
A. Progress Reports
Program progress reports are required semi-annually, within 30 days
after the budget period ends (specific dates will be listed in the NoA
Terms and Conditions). These reports must include a brief comparison of
actual accomplishments to the goals established for the period, a
summary of progress to date or, if applicable, provide sound
justification for the lack of progress, and other pertinent information
as required. A final report must be submitted within 90 days of
expiration of the period of performance.
B. Financial Reports
Federal Financial Report (FFR or SF-425), Cash Transaction Reports
are due 30 days after the close of every calendar quarter to the
Payment Management Services, HHS at https://pms.psc.gov. The applicant
is also requested to upload a copy of the FFR (SF-425) into our grants
management system, GrantSolutions. Failure to submit timely reports may
result in adverse award actions blocking access to funds.
Grantees are responsible and accountable for accurate information
being reported on all required reports: The Progress Reports and
Federal Financial Report.
C. Federal Sub-Award Reporting System (FSRS)
This award may be subject to the Transparency Act sub-award and
executive compensation reporting requirements of 2 CFR part 170.
The Transparency Act requires the OMB to establish a single
searchable database, accessible to the public, with information on
financial assistance awards made by Federal agencies. The Transparency
Act also includes a requirement for recipients of Federal grants to
report information about first-tier sub-awards and executive
compensation under Federal assistance awards. IHS has implemented a
Term of Award into all IHS Standard Terms and Conditions, NoAs and
funding announcements regarding the FSRS reporting requirement. This
IHS Term of Award is applicable to all IHS grant and cooperative
agreements issued on or after October 1, 2010, with a $25,000 sub-award
obligation dollar threshold met for any specific reporting period.
Additionally, all new (discretionary) IHS awards (where the period of
performance is made up of more than one budget period) and where: (1)
The period of performance start date was October 1, 2010 or after, and
(2) the primary awardee will have a $25,000 sub-award obligation dollar
threshold during any specific reporting period will be required to
address the FSRS reporting.
For the full IHS award term implementing this requirement and
additional award applicability information, visit the DGM Grants Policy
website at https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/.
D. Compliance With Executive Order 13166 Implementation of Services
Accessibility Provisions for All Grant Application Packages and Funding
Opportunity Announcements
Recipients of Federal financial assistance (FFA) from HHS must
administer their programs in compliance with Federal civil rights laws
that prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national
origin, disability, age and, in some circumstances, religion,
conscience, and sex. This includes ensuring programs are accessible to
persons with limited English proficiency. The HHS Office for Civil
Rights provides guidance on complying with civil rights laws enforced
by HHS. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-providers/provider-obligations/index.html and http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/understanding/section1557/index.html.
Recipients of FFA must ensure that their programs are
accessible to persons with limited English proficiency. HHS provides
guidance to recipients of FFA on meeting their legal obligation to take
reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to their programs by
persons with limited English proficiency. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/special-topics/limited-english-proficiency/fact-sheet-guidance/index.html and https://www.lep.gov. For further guidance on providing culturally and
linguistically appropriate services, recipients should review the
National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate
Services in Health and Health Care at https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/browse.aspx?lvl=2&lvlid=53.
Recipients of FFA also have specific legal obligations for
serving qualified individuals with disabilities. Please see http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/understanding/disability/index.html.
HHS funded health and education programs must be
administered in an environment free of sexual harassment. Please see
https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/sex-discrimination/index.html; https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/shguide.html; and https://www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/publications/fs-sex.cfm.
Recipients of FFA must also administer their programs in
compliance with applicable Federal religious nondiscrimination laws and
applicable Federal conscience protection and associated anti-
discrimination laws. Collectively, these laws prohibit exclusion,
adverse treatment, coercion, or other discrimination against persons or
entities on the basis of their consciences, religious beliefs, or moral
convictions. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/conscience-protections/index.html and https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/religious-freedom/index.html.
Please contact the HHS Office for Civil Rights for more information
about obligations and prohibitions under Federal civil rights laws at
https://www.hhs.gov/ocr/about-us/contact-us/index.html or call 1-800-
368-1019 or TDD 1-800-537-7697.
E. Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System
(FAPIIS)
The IHS is required to review and consider any information about
the applicant that is in the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity
Information System (FAPIIS), at https://www.fapiis.gov, before making
any award in excess of the simplified
[[Page 37684]]
acquisition threshold (currently $150,000) over the period of
performance. An applicant may review and comment on any information
about itself that a Federal awarding agency previously entered. The IHS
will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to other
information in FAPIIS in making a judgment about the applicant's
integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under Federal
awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as
described in 45 CFR 75.205.
As required by 45 CFR part 75, appendix XII of the Uniform
Guidance, non-Federal entities (NFEs) are required to disclose in
FAPIIS any information about criminal, civil, and administrative
proceedings, and/or affirm that there is no new information to provide.
This applies to NFEs that receive Federal awards (currently active
grants, cooperative agreements, and procurement contracts) greater than
$10,000,000 for any period of time during the period of performance of
an award/project.
Mandatory Disclosure Requirements
As required by 2 CFR part 200 of the Uniform Guidance, and the HHS
implementing regulations at 45 CFR part 75, the IHS must require a non-
Federal entity or an applicant for a Federal award to disclose, in a
timely manner, in writing to the IHS or pass-through entity all
violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or
gratuity violations potentially affecting the Federal award.
Submission is required for all applicants and recipients, in
writing, to the IHS and to the HHS Office of Inspector General all
information related to violations of Federal criminal law involving
fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the
Federal award. 45 CFR 75.113.
Disclosures must be sent in writing to: U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services, Indian Health Service, Division of Grants
Management, ATTN: Paul Gettys, Acting Director, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail
Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, (Include ``Mandatory Grant
Disclosures'' in subject line), Office: (301) 443-5204, Fax: (301) 594-
0899, Email: [email protected] and U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Office of Inspector General, ATTN: Mandatory Grant
Disclosures, Intake Coordinator, 330 Independence Avenue SW, Cohen
Building, Room 5527, Washington, DC 20201, URL: https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/, (Include ``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in
subject line), Fax: (202) 205-0604 (Include ``Mandatory Grant
Disclosures'' in subject line) or Email:
[email protected].
Failure to make required disclosures can result in any of the
remedies described in 45 CFR 75.371 Remedies for noncompliance,
including suspension or debarment (See 2 CFR parts 180 & 376).
VII. Agency Contacts
1. Questions on the programmatic issues may be directed to: Verly
Fairbanks, Management/Program Analyst, Office of Direct Service and
Contracting Tribes, Indian Health Service, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail
Stop: 08E17, Rockville, MD 20857, Telephone: (301) 443-1104, Email:
[email protected].
2. Questions on grants management and fiscal matters may be
directed to: Mr. Andrew Diggs, Grants Management Specialist, Indian
Health Service, Division of Grants Management, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail
Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: (301) 443-2241, Fax: (301)
594-0899, Email: [email protected].
3. Questions on systems matters may be directed to: Mr. Paul
Gettys, Acting Director, Indian Health Service, Division of Grants
Management, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857,
Phone: (301) 443-2114; or the DGM main line (301) 443-5204, Fax: (301)
594-0899, E-Mail: [email protected].
VIII. Other Information
The Public Health Service strongly encourages all grant,
cooperative agreement and contract recipients to provide a smoke-free
workplace and promote the non-use of all tobacco products. In addition,
Public Law 103-227, the Pro-Children Act of 1994, prohibits smoking in
certain facilities (or in some cases, any portion of the facility) in
which regular or routine education, library, day care, health care, or
early childhood development services are provided to children. This is
consistent with the HHS mission to protect and advance the physical and
mental health of the American people.
Michael D. Weahkee,
RADM, Assistant Surgeon General, U.S. Public Health Service Director,
Indian Health Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-13470 Filed 6-22-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4165-16-P