[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 16 (Tuesday, January 25, 2022)]
[Notices]
[Pages 3819-3828]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-01322]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Indian Health Service
Tribal Management Grant Program
Announcement Type: New.
Funding Announcement Number: HHS-2022-IHS-TMD-0001.
Assistance Listing (Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance or CFDA)
Number: 93.228.
Key Dates
Application Deadline Date: April 25, 2022.
Earliest Anticipated Start Date: June 9, 2022.
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 the Snyder Act, 25 U.S.C. 13; the Transfer Act, 42
U.S.C. 2001(a); and the Indian Self-Determination and Education
Assistance Act (ISDEAA), Public Law (Pub. L.) 93-638, as amended, 25
U.S.C. 5322(b)(2) and 25 U.S.C. 5322(e). This program is described in
the Assistance Listings located at https://sam.gov/content/home
(formerly known as the CFDA) 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/TO)
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
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 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.
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) 2022 is
approximately $2,465,000. Individual award amounts
[[Page 3820]]
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 Tribal Management Grant (TMG Project) period of performance
varies based on the project type selected. Period of performance is
from 1 to 3 years. Please refer to ``Eligible TMG Project Types,
Maximum Funding Levels, and Periods of Performance'' for additional
details.
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.
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 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, 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 study and recommendations report
is to be presented 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 https://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives. The United States (U.S.)
Public Health Service 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. The extent of the evaluation study could relate to
the goals and objectives, policies and procedures, or programs
regarding targeted groups. 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 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,'' 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,'' 137.160--137.220.
III. Eligibility Information
1. Eligibility
``Indian Tribes'' and ``Tribal Organizations'' (T/TOs), as defined
by the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA), are eligible to
apply for the TMG Program. The definitions for each entity type are
outlined below.
To be eligible for this FY 2022 funding opportunity for ``New
Applicants Only,'' an applicant cannot be an existing TMG awardee under
this program.
A federally recognized Indian Tribe as defined by 25
U.S.C. 1603(14). 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.
[[Page 3821]]
A Tribal organization as defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603(26).
The term ``Tribal organization'' has the meaning given the term in
section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act
(25 U.S.C. 5304(l)): ``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.
Applicant shall submit Tribal Resolutions from the Tribes to be served.
Please note that Tribes prohibited from contracting pursuant to the
ISDEAA are not eligible for the TMG program. See section 424(a) of the
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2014, Public Law 113-76, as amended by
section 428 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018, Public Law
115-141, and section 1201 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021,
Public Law 116-260.
The program office will notify any applicants deemed ineligible.
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 nonprofit status, etc.
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, are considered not
responsive and will not be reviewed. The Division of Grants Management
(DGM) will notify the applicant.
Additional Required Documentation
Tribal Resolution
The DGM must receive an official, signed Tribal Resolution prior to
issuing a Notice of Award (NoA) to any applicant selected for funding.
An Indian Tribe or Tribal organization 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 application
without a signed Tribal Resolution is selected for funding, the
applicant will be contacted by the Grants Management Specialist (GMS)
listed in this funding announcement and given 90 days to submit an
official signed Tribal Resolution to the GMS. If the signed Tribal
Resolution is not received within 90 days, the award will be forfeited.
Tribes organized with a governing structure other than a Tribal
council may submit an equivalent document commensurate with their
governing organization.
Proof of Nonprofit Status
Organizations claiming nonprofit status must submit a current copy
of the 501(c)(3) Certificate with the application.
Additional Required Documentation for Specific TMG Project Types
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 2016.
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'' 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 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 that will be addressed in
the TMG proposal and that are related to 25 CFR part 900, Subpart F--
``Standards for Tribal or Tribal Organization Management Systems.''
D. Documentation of Consortium participation--If an applicant is a
member of an eligible intertribal consortium, the Tribe must:
1. Identify the consortium.
2. Demonstrate that the Tribe's application does not duplicate or
overlap any objectives of the consortium's application.
3. Identify all consortium member Tribes.
4. Identify if any of the consortium member Tribes intend to submit
a TMG application of their own.
5. 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 2016, 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
[[Page 3822]]
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.
IV. Application and Submission Information
1. Obtaining Application Materials
The application package and detailed instructions for this
announcement are available at https://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
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 five
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).
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), if applicant
conducts reportable lobbying.
Certification Regarding Lobbying (GG-Lobbying Form).
Copy of current Negotiated Indirect Cost (IDC) rate
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 at https://harvester.census.gov/facdissem/Main.aspx.
Public Policy Requirements
All Federal public policies apply to IHS grants and cooperative
agreements. Pursuant to 45 CFR 80.3(d), an individual shall not be
deemed subjected to discrimination by reason of their exclusion from
benefits limited by Federal law to individuals eligible for benefits
and services from the IHS. See https://www.hhs.gov/grants/grants/grants-policies-regulations/index.html.
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;
and (4) 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 will 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
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
Describe fully and clearly 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
[[Page 3823]]
Describe fully and clearly 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.
Part 3: Program Report (limit--2 pages)
Section 1: Describe your organization's significant program
activities and accomplishments over the past 5 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.
B. Budget Narrative (limit--5 pages)
Provide a budget narrative that explains the amounts requested for
each line item of the budget from the SF-424A (Budget Information for
Non-Construction Programs). The budget narrative can include a more
detailed spreadsheet than is provided by the SF-424A. 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 (see Multi-Year Project Requirements in Section V.1, Application
Review Information, Evaluation Criteria), 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 Time 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 10 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.
The 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 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 may be awarded per applicant.
6. Electronic Submission Requirements
All applications must be submitted via Grants.gov. Please use the
https://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 the DGM. Applications that are
submitted without a copy of the signed waiver from the Acting 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. Eastern Time 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 https://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
that 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 https://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
[[Page 3824]]
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://sam.gov (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://sam.gov.
Additional information on implementing the Transparency Act,
including the specific requirements for DUNS and SAM, are available on
the DGM Grants Management, Policy Topics web page at https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/.
V. Application Review Information
Possible points assigned to each section are noted in parentheses.
The project narrative and budget narrative should include only the
first year of activities; information for multi-year projects should be
included as a separate document. See ``Multi-year Project
Requirements'' at the end of this section for more information. The
project narrative 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 fully understand the project.
Attachments requested in the criteria do not count toward the page
limit for the project narrative. 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.
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:
a. 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.
b. 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.
c. 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:
a. Measureable and (if applicable) quantifiable;
b. results-oriented;
c. 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 Other Attachments that includes the
following:
a. Provide action steps on a timeline for accomplishing the
proposed project objectives.
b. Identify who will perform the action steps.
c. Identify who will supervise the action steps taken.
d. Identify tangible products that will be produced during and at
the end of the proposed project.
e. 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.
f. Include a description of any training activities proposed. This
description will identify the target audience and training personnel.
g. 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):
a. Educational requirements.
b. Desired qualifications and work experience.
c. Expected work products to be delivered, including a timeline.
If potential consultants or contractors have already been
identified, please
[[Page 3825]]
upload a resume for each consultant or contractor in the Other
Attachments in Grants.gov.
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 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. Process evaluation relates to the work plan and activities
of the project.
1. For outcome evaluation, describe:
a. The criteria for determining whether each objective was met.
b. The data to be collected to determine whether the objective was
met.
c. Data collection intervals.
d. Who will be responsible for collecting the data and their
qualifications.
e. Data analysis method.
f. How the results will be used.
2. For process evaluation, describe:
a. The process for monitoring and assessing potential problems,
then identifying quality improvements.
b. Who will be responsible for monitoring and managing project
improvements based on results of ongoing process improvements and their
qualifications.
c. Provide details with regards to the ways ongoing monitoring will
be used to improve the project.
d. Describe any products, such as manuals or policies, that might
be developed and how they might lend themselves to replication by
others.
e. 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 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) that 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 as Other Attachments in Grants.gov. 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 Other Attachments.
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 are required, please indicate that in this section.
E. Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (5 points)
1. Provide a categorical budget for the first budget period.
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 Other Attachments.
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 Other Attachments in
Grants.gov. These can include:
Work plan, logic model, and/or timeline 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 Rate 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 (budget limit, project period limit) 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 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 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 award, the terms and
[[Page 3826]]
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 1 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
Awards issued under this announcement are subject to, and 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, Cost Principles, and
Audit Requirements for HHS Awards currently in effect or implemented
during the period of award, other Department regulations and policies
in effect at the time of award, and applicable statutory provisions. At
the time of publication, this includes 45 CFR part 75, at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2020-title45-voll/pdf/CFR-2020-title45-voll-part75.pdf.
Please review all HHS regulatory provisions for
Termination at 45 CFR 75.372, at https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/retrieveECFR?&SID=2970eec67399fab1413ede53d7895d99&mc=true&n=pt45.1.75&r=PART&ty=HTML&se45.1.75_1372#se45.1.75_1372.
C. Grants Policy:
HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised January 2007, at
https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/grants/grants/policies-regulations/hhsgps107.pdf.
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.
F. As of August 13, 2020, 2 CFR 200 was updated to include a
prohibition on certain telecommunications and video surveillance
services or equipment. This prohibition is described in 2 CFR 200.216.
This will also be described in the terms and conditions of every IHS
grant and cooperative agreement awarded on or after August 13, 2020.
2. Indirect Costs
This section applies to all recipients that request reimbursement
of IDC in their application budget. In accordance with HHS Grants
Policy Statement, Part II-27, the IHS requires applicants to obtain a
current IDC rate agreement and submit it to the DGM prior to the 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.
Per 45 CFR 75.414(f) Indirect (F&A) costs, ``any non-Federal entity
(NFE) [i.e., applicant] that has never received a negotiated indirect
cost rate, . . . may elect to charge a de minimis rate of 10 percent of
modified total direct costs which may be used indefinitely. As
described in Section 75.403, costs must be consistently charged as
either indirect or direct costs, but may not be double charged or
inconsistently charged as both. If chosen, this methodology once
elected must be used consistently for all Federal awards until such
time as the NFE chooses to negotiate for a rate, which the NFE may
apply to do at any time.'' Electing to charge a de minimis rate of 10
percent only applies to applicants that have never received an approved
negotiated indirect cost rate from HHS or another cognizant Federal
agency. Applicants awaiting approval of their indirect cost proposal
may request the 10 percent de minimis rate. When the applicant chooses
this method, costs included in the indirect cost pool must not be
charged as direct costs to the grant.
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 at https://rates.psc.gov/ or the Department
of the Interior (Interior Business Center) at https://ibc.doi.gov/ICS/tribal. For questions regarding the indirect cost policy, please call
the Grants Management Specialist listed 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 the imposition of special award
provisions and/or 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 awardee organization
or the individual responsible for preparation of the reports. Per DGM
policy, all reports must 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. The progress
reports are due within 30 days after the reporting 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 Cash Transaction Reports are due 30 days after the close of
every calendar quarter to the Payment Management Services at https://pms.psc.gov. Failure to submit timely reports may result in adverse
award actions blocking access to funds.
Federal Financial Reports are due 30 days after the end of each
budget period, and a final report is due 90 days after the end of the
Period of Performance. Grantees are responsible and accountable for
reporting accurate
[[Page 3827]]
information on all required reports: The Progress Reports, the Federal
Cash Transaction Report, and the 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. The 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 threshold met for any specific reporting period. For the
full IHS award term implementing this requirement and additional award
applicability information, visit the DGM Grants Management 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
Should you successfully compete for an award, 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 (including gender
identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy). This includes ensuring
programs are accessible to persons with limited English proficiency and
persons with disabilities. 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 https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/nondiscrimination/index.html.
Recipients of FFA must ensure that their programs are
accessible to persons with limited English proficiency. For guidance on
meeting your legal obligation to take reasonable steps to ensure
meaningful access to your programs or activities by limited English
proficiency individuals, 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 information on your specific legal obligations for
serving qualified individuals with disabilities, including reasonable
modifications and making services accessible to them, see https://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. See https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/sex-discrimination/index.html.
For guidance on administering your program in compliance
with applicable Federal religious nondiscrimination laws and applicable
Federal conscience protection and associated anti-discrimination laws,
see https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/conscience-protections/index.html
and https://www.hhs.gov/conscience/religious-freedom/index.html.
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 FAPIIS at https://www.fapiis.gov
before making any award in excess of the simplified acquisition
threshold (currently $250,000) 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,
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 an NFE
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. All applicants and recipients
must disclose in writing, in a timely manner, 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 part 180 and 2 CFR part
376).
VII. Agency Contacts
1. Questions on the programmatic issues may be directed to:
Terri Schmidt, Director, Office of Direct Service and Contracting
Tribes, Indian Health Service, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 08E17,
Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: (301) 443-1104, Email:
[email protected].
2. Questions on grants management and fiscal matters may be
directed to:
Sheila A.L. Miller, Grants Management Specialist, Indian Health
Service, Division of Grants Management, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop:
09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: (240) 535-9308, Email:
[email protected].
[[Page 3828]]
3. Questions on systems matters may be directed to:
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, Email:
[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.
Elizabeth A. Fowler,
Acting Deputy Director, Indian Health Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-01322 Filed 1-24-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4165-16-P