Division of Nursing, Public Health Nursing Community Based Model of PHN Case Management Services, 41986-41992 [2012-17295]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
• Indian Health Service

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 137 (Tuesday, July 17, 2012)]
[Notices]
[Pages 41986-41992]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-17295]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Indian Health Service


Division of Nursing, Public Health Nursing Community Based Model 
of PHN Case Management Services

    Announcement Type: New.
    Funding Announcement Number: HHS-2012-IHS-PHN-0001.
    Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 93.933.

Key Dates

    Application Deadline Date: August 14, 2012.
    Review Date: August 20, 2012.
    Earliest Anticipated Start Date: September 1, 2012.

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Statutory Authority

    The Indian Health Service (IHS) is accepting competitive 
cooperative agreement applications for the Office of Clinical and 
Preventive Services (OCPS), Community Based Model of Public Health 
Nursing Case Management Services. This program is authorized under the 
Snyder Act, 25 U.S.C. 13; the Transfer Act, 42 U.S.C. 2011; the Public 
Health Service Act, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 241; and the Indian Health 
Care Improvement Act, as amended, (IHCIA), 25 U.S.C. 1653(c). This 
program is described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance 
under 93.933.

Background

    The IHS OCPS Public Health Nursing (PHN) Program serves as the 
primary source for national advocacy, policy development, budget 
development, and allocation for clinical, preventive, and public health 
nursing programs for the IHS Area Offices and Service Units. The IHS 
PHN Program is a community health nursing program that focuses on the 
goals of promoting health and quality of life, and preventing disease 
and disability. The PHN program provides quality, culturally sensitive 
health promotion and disease prevention nursing services through 
primary, secondary and tertiary prevention services to individuals, 
families, and community groups. It provides leadership in articulating 
the clinical, preventive, and public health needs of American Indian/
Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities and developing, managing, and 
administering program functions related to PHN.

Purpose

    The purpose of this IHS cooperative agreement is to improve 
specific health outcomes of an identified high risk group of patients 
through a community case management model that utilizes the PHN as a 
case manager. Research indicates nursing case management is a cost 
effective way to maximize health outcomes. Case management involves the 
client, family, and other members of the health care team. Quality of 
care, continuity, and assurance of appropriate and timely interventions 
are also crucial. In addition to reducing the cost of health care, case 
management has proven its worth in terms of improving rehabilitation, 
improving quality of life, increasing client satisfaction and 
compliance by promoting client self-determination. The PHN model of 
community based case management utilizes roles and functions of PHN 
services of assessment, planning, coordinating services, communication 
and monitoring. The goals and outcomes of the PHN case management model 
are early detection, diagnosis, treatment and evaluation that will 
improve health outcomes in a cost effective manner. This model utilizes 
all prevention components of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention 
in the home with patient and family. The community based case 
management model addresses the PHN scope of practice of working with 
individuals and families in a population-based practice to provide 
primary nursing care services. This project will focus on a PHN 
community based case management model. The project will be conducted in 
a phased approach, using the nursing process--assessment, planning, 
implementation, and evaluation.
    First Phase: Assessment--Complete a generic community assessment 
(most PHN programs have this readily available as a part of their 
annual program plans). Include, if available, pertinent data from other 
local community assessments and local health status data of the 
community in the assessment. In addition, obtain input from key stake-
holders such as community members, Tribal leaders, healthcare 
administration and community health groups to determine the health care 
priorities. Obtain approval for the establishment of the PHN case 
management program from healthcare administration, governing boards and 
medical executive committees as needed.
    Second Phase: Planning--Based on the community assessment, the high 
risk population is identified and the planning of the case management 
project begins. Develop case management services addressing the 
priority health issues identified from the community assessment. Plan 
specific guidelines for the case management services of the high risk 
group of patients such as admission criteria, caseload size, policies 
and procedures, and an evaluation plan to include data tracking for 
outcomes generated. Identify if there is a best practice case 
management model available to replicate to target the identified high 
risk population. Obtain additional staff training needed for the 
community based nurse case management model such as evidence based 
practice, motivational interviewing, nurse competencies and any other 
training that would be applicable to the health issues identified in 
the case management model. Identify or develop patient education 
materials and community education materials for the program. Develop 
plans for project sustainability.
    Third Phase: Implementation--The case management program includes 
admission criteria of the high risk population, caseload size, and 
appropriate health care standards. Establish patient caseload. Monitor 
progress and make adjustments as needed. Track patient data outcomes. 
Continue to plan ongoing sustainability of the program after the award 
period ends.
    Fourth Phase: Patient Satisfaction--In order to evaluate program 
services; initiate a patient satisfaction program, such as one that 
provides patients with an opportunity to provide feedback on their 
experiences to assess the satisfaction of the population served. 
Analyze findings so a concentrated effort is made to relate the 
customer satisfaction results to internal process metrics, and examine 
trends over time in order to take action on a timely basis. Evaluate 
and revise the case management program if needed, review policies and 
procedures, education materials and staff competencies semi-annually. 
To the extent permitted by law, report back to key stake-holders 
progress of the project, especially to inform clients about changes 
brought about as a direct result of listening to their needs. Each site 
will share program material with IHS Headquarters PHN program. This 
information will be shared IHS-wide for replication of the project 
across IHS with credit given to

[[Page 41987]]

the organization that developed the material. Poster presentation or 
oral presentation will be given at the National Nurse Leadership 
Council (NNLC) meetings or annual Nurse Leaders in Native Care (NLiNC) 
conference. The program established must be sustainable after 
completion of the project.

II. Award Information

Type of Award

    Cooperative Agreement.

Estimated Funds Available

    The total amount of funding identified for the current fiscal year 
(FY) 2012, is approximately $1,200,000. Individual award amounts are 
anticipated to be between $130,000 and $150,000. Competing and 
continuation awards issued under this announcement are subject to the 
availability of funds. In the absence of funding, the IHS is under no 
obligation to make awards that are selected for funding under this 
announcement.

Anticipated Number of Awards

    Approximately eight awards will be issued under this program 
announcement.

Project Period

    The project period will be for five years and will run 
consecutively from August 30, 2012 to August 29, 2017. Funding for 
continuation awards (FY 2013-FY 2017) is subject to the availability of 
funds and agency priorities.

Cooperative Agreement

    In the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), a cooperative 
agreement is administered under the same policies as a grant. The 
funding agency (IHS) is required to have substantial programmatic 
involvement in the project during the entire award segment. Below is a 
detailed description of the level of involvement required for both IHS 
and the grantee. IHS will be responsible for activities listed under 
section A and the grantee will be responsible for activities listed 
under section B as stated:

Substantial Involvement Description for Cooperative Agreement

A. IHS Programmatic Involvement
    (1) Provide funded organizations with ongoing consultation and 
technical assistance to plan, implement, and evaluate each component of 
the comprehensive program as described under Recipient Activities 
below. Consultation and technical assistance will include, but not be 
limited to, the following areas:
    (a) Interpretation of current scientific literature related to 
epidemiology, statistics, surveillance, Healthy People 2020 Objectives, 
and guidance on previous best practices of PHN Case Management grantee 
activities;
    (b) Identify sources for additional staff training for the 
community based case management model and additional training needed 
such as evidence based practice, motivational interviewing, and any 
other training that would be applicable to the health issues addressed 
in the case management model.
    (c) Design and implementation of program components (including, but 
not limited to, program implementation methods, recommendation of a 
community assessment tool, surveillance, epidemiologic analysis, 
development of programmatic evaluation, and coordination of 
activities);
    (d) Identify, if available, previously established program 
management plans of PHN Case Management best practices (to replicate 
from previous demonstration PHN program awards);
    (e) Conduct visits to assess program progress and mutually resolve 
problems, if travel funds are available and if needed; and,
    (f) Coordinate these activities with all IHS PHN activities on a 
national basis.
B. Grantee Cooperative Agreement Award Activities
    (1) Identify priority health issues and high risk patient 
population based on a comprehensive community assessment.
    (2) Establish policies and procedures, develop case management 
services addressing the priority health issues identified, and identify 
mechanisms for tracking outcomes to improve the health care status.
    (3) Collaborate with national IHS programs by providing data on a 
quarterly basis, and identify and document best practices for 
implementing PHN Case Management services.
    (4) Participate in the development of systems for sharing, 
improving, and disseminating PHN case management best practices at a 
national level for purposes of supporting services for AI/AN 
communities, Government Performance Results Act (GPRA) of 1993, Healthy 
People 2020 and other national-level activities.
    (5) Develop PHN case management services for high risk patients to 
coordinate medical care, including treatment and prevention services 
for comorbid conditions.
    (6) Provide a three page mid-year report and no more than a ten 
page summary annual report at the end of each project year. The report 
should establish the impact and outcomes of best practices of PHN case 
management services in AI/AN communities during the funding period.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligibility

    This is a full competition announcement.
    Eligible Applicants must be one of the following:
    i. An Indian Tribe, as defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603(14);
    ii. A Tribal organization, as defined by 25 U.S.C. 1603(26); or
    iii. An Urban Indian organization, as defined by 25 U.S.C. 
1603(29). Applicants must provide proof of non-profit status with the 
application, e.g. 501(c)(3).

    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.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching

    The IHS does not require matching funds or cost sharing for grants 
or cooperative agreements.

3. Other Requirements

    If application budgets exceed the highest dollar amount outlined 
under the ``Estimated Funds Available'' section within this funding 
announcement, the application will be considered ineligible and will 
not be reviewed for further consideration. IHS will not return the 
application. The applicant will be notified by email or certified mail 
by the Division of Grants Management of this decision.
    Letters of Intent will not be required under this funding 
opportunity announcement.

IV. Application and Submission Information

1. Obtaining Application Materials

    The application package and detailed instructions for this 
announcement can be found at https://www.Grants.gov or https://www.ihs.gov/NonMedicalPrograms/gogp/index.cfm?module=gogp_funding
    Questions regarding the electronic application process may be 
directed to Paul Gettys at (301) 443-2114.

[[Page 41988]]

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:
     Table of contents.
     Abstract (one page) summarizing the project.
     Application forms:
    [cir] SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance.
    [cir] SF-424A, Budget Information--Non-Construction Programs.
    [cir] SF-424B, Assurances--Non-Construction Programs.
     Budget Justification and Narrative (must be single spaced 
and not exceed 5 pages).
     Project Narrative (must not exceed 10 pages).
    [cir] Background information on the applicant.
    [cir] Proposed scope of work, objectives, and activities that 
provide a description of what will be accomplished, including a one-
page Timeframe Chart.
     Tribal Resolution or Tribal Letter of Support (Tribal 
Organizations only).
     Letter of Support from Organization's Board of Directors.
     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 of Lobbying.
     Copy of current Negotiated Indirect Cost rate (IDC) 
agreement (required) in order to receive IDC.
     Organizational Chart (optional).
     Documentation of current OMB A-133 required Financial 
Audit (if applicable).
    Acceptable forms of documentation include:
    [cir] Email confirmation from Federal Audit Clearinghouse (FAC) 
that audits were submitted; or
    [cir] Face sheets from audit reports. These can be found on the FAC 
Web site: https://harvester.census.gov/sac/dissem/
accessoptions.html?submit=Go+To+Database
    Public Policy Requirements:
    All Federal-wide public policies apply to IHS grants with exception 
of the Discrimination policy.
Requirements for Project and Budget Narratives
    A. Project Narrative: This narrative should be a separate Word 
document that is no longer than ten pages and must: be single-spaced, 
be type written, have consecutively numbered pages, use black type not 
smaller than 12 characters per one inch, and be printed on one side 
only of standard size 8\1/2\'' x 11'' paper.
    Be sure to succinctly answer all questions listed under the 
evaluation criteria (refer to Section IV.1, Evaluation criteria in this 
announcement) and place all responses and required information in the 
correct section (noted below), or they will not be considered or 
scored. These narratives will assist the Objective Review Committee 
(ORC) in becoming more familiar with the grantee's activities and 
accomplishments prior to this possible grant award. If the narrative 
exceeds the page limit, only the first ten pages will be reviewed. The 
10-page limit for the narrative does not include the work plan, 
standard forms, Tribal resolutions, table of contents, budget, budget 
justifications, narratives, and/or other appendix items.
    There are three parts to the narrative: Part A--Program 
Information; Part B--Program Planning and Evaluation; and Part C--
Program Report. See below for additional details about what must be 
included in the narrative.
Part A: Program Information (3 pages)
Section 1: Needs
    Describe how the applicant has determined it has the administrative 
infrastructure to support the activities to implement a PHN Case 
Management Program and evaluate and sustain it. Explain the previous 
planning activities the applicant has completed relevant to this or 
similar goals.
Part B: Program Planning and Evaluation (5 pages)
Section 1: Program Plans
    Describe fully and clearly the direction the applicant plans to 
take in the PHN Case Management Program, including plans to demonstrate 
improved health outcomes of the identified high risk group of patients 
and services to the community it serves. Include proposed timelines.
Section 2: Program Evaluation
    Describe fully and clearly the improvements that will be made by 
the applicant to manage the PHN Case Management Program and identify 
the anticipated or expected benefits for the Tribe and AI/AN people 
served.
Part C: Program Report (2 pages)
    Section 1: Describe major accomplishments over the last 24 months. 
Please identify and describe significant program achievements 
associated with the delivery of quality health services or outreach 
services in the past 24 months in implementing previous grants, 
cooperative agreements or other related activities. 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 last 24 months. 
Please identify and summarize recent major health related project 
activities and the work done during the project period.
    B. Budget Narrative: This narrative must describe the budget 
requested and match the scope of work described in the project 
narrative. The page limitation should not exceed five pages.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 
12:00 a.m., midnight Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on August 14, 2012. 
Any application received after the application deadline will not be 
accepted for processing, nor will it be given further consideration for 
funding. You will be notified by the Division of Grants Management via 
email or certified mail of this decision.
    If technical challenges arise and assistance is required with the 
electronic application process, contact Grants.gov Customer Support via 
email to support@grants.gov or at (800) 518-4726. Customer Support is 
available to address questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except on 
Federal holidays). If problems persist, contact Paul Gettys, Division 
of Grants Management (DGM) (Paul.Gettys@ihs.gov) at (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.
    If an applicant needs to submit a paper application instead of 
submitting electronically via Grants.gov, prior approval must be 
requested and obtained (see Section IV.6 below for additional 
information). The waiver must be documented in writing (emails are 
acceptable), before submitting a paper application. A copy of the 
written approval must be submitted along with the hardcopy that is 
mailed to the DGM. Once your waiver request has been approved, you will 
receive a confirmation of approval and the mailing address to submit 
your application. Paper applications that are submitted without a 
waiver from the Acting Director of DGM will not be reviewed or 
considered further for

[[Page 41989]]

funding. You will be notified via email or certified mail of this 
decision by the Grants Management Officer of DGM. Paper applications 
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 or considered for funding.

4. Intergovernmental Review

    Executive Order 12372 requiring intergovernmental review is not 
applicable to this program.

5. Funding Restrictions

     Pre-award costs are not allowable.
     The available funds are inclusive of direct and 
appropriate indirect costs.
     Only one grant/cooperative agreement will be awarded per 
applicant.
     IHS will not acknowledge receipt of applications.

6. Electronic Submission Requirements

    All applications must be submitted electronically. Please use the 
https://www.Grants.gov Web site to submit an application electronically 
and select the ``Find Grant Opportunities'' link on the homepage. 
Download a copy of the application package, complete it offline, and 
then upload and submit the completed application via the https://www.Grants.gov Web site. Electronic copies of the application may not 
be submitted as attachments to email messages addressed to IHS 
employees or offices.
    Applicants that receive a waiver to submit paper application 
documents must follow the rules and timelines that are noted below. The 
applicant must seek assistance at least ten days prior to the 
application deadline.
    Applicants that do not adhere to the timelines for Central 
Contractor Registry (CCR) and/or https://www.Grants.gov registration or 
that fail to request timely assistance with technical issues will not 
be considered for a waiver to submit a paper application.
    Please be aware of the following:
     Please search for the application package in https://www.Grants.gov by entering the 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 electronically, please contact Grants.gov Support 
directly at: support@grants.gov or (800) 518-4726. Customer Support is 
available to address questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except on 
Federal holidays).
     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 waiver from the agency must be 
obtained.
     If it is determined that a waiver is needed, you must 
submit a request in writing (emails are acceptable) to 
GrantsPolicy@ihs.gov with a copy to Tammy.Bagley@ihs.gov. Please 
include a clear justification for the need to deviate from our standard 
electronic submission process.
     If the waiver is approved, the application should be sent 
directly to the DGM by the deadline date of August 14, 2012.
     Applicants are strongly encouraged not to wait until the 
deadline date to begin the application process through Grants.gov as 
the registration process for CCR and Grants.gov could take up to 
fifteen working days.
     Please use the optional attachment feature in Grants.gov 
to attach additional documentation that may be requested by the DGM.
     All applicants must comply with any page limitation 
requirements described in this Funding Announcement.
     After you electronically submit your application, you will 
receive an automatic acknowledgment from Grants.gov that contains a 
Grants.gov tracking number. The DGM will download your application from 
Grants.gov and provide necessary copies to the appropriate agency 
officials. Neither the DGM nor the Division of Nursing, Public Health 
Nursing will notify applicants that the application has been received.
     Email applications will not be accepted under this 
announcement.
Dun and Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS)
    All IHS applicants and grantee organizations are required to obtain 
a DUNS number and maintain an active registration in the CCR database. 
The DUNS number is a unique 9-digit identification number provided by 
D&B which uniquely identifies your 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, you may access it through https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform, or to expedite the process, call (866) 705-
5711.
    Effective October 1, 2010, all HHS recipients were asked to start 
reporting information on subawards, as required by the Federal Funding 
Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as amended (``Transparency 
Act''). Accordingly, all IHS grantees must notify potential first-tier 
subrecipients that no entity may receive a first-tier subaward 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.''
Central Contractor Registry (CCR)
    Organizations that have not registered with CCR will need to obtain 
a DUNS number first and then access the CCR online registration through 
the CCR home page at https://www.bpn.gov/ccr/default.aspx (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). Completing and submitting the registration 
takes approximately one hour and your CCR registration will take 3-5 
business days to process. Registration with the CCR is free of charge. 
Applicants may register online at https://www.bpn.gov/ccrupdate/NewRegistration.aspx.
    Additional information on implementing the ``Transparency Act,'' 
including the specific requirements for DUNS and CCR, can be found on 
the IHS Grants Management, Grants Policy Web site: https://www.ihs.gov/NonMedicalPrograms/gogp/index.cfm?module=gogp_policy_topics.

V. Application Review Information

    The instructions for preparing the application narrative also 
constitute the evaluation criteria for reviewing and scoring the 
application. Weights assigned to each section are noted in parentheses. 
The ten 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 points. A minimum score 
of 60 points is required for funding. Points are assigned as follows:

[[Page 41990]]

1. Criteria

A. Introduction and Need for Assistance (5 points)
    (1) Provide demographic information, prevalence rates of disease, 
and baseline health data to substantiate the case management for the 
high risk group of patients.
    (2) Describe how data collection will support the stated project 
objectives and how it will support the project evaluation in order to 
determine the impact of the project. Address how the proposed project 
will result in health improvements.
B. Project Objective(s), Work Plan and Approach (35 points)
    (1) Goals and Objectives (15 Points).
    i. Establish two to three measurable objectives within a plan that 
will provide significant outcome. Goals/Objectives should be specific 
with a realistic timeline.
    (2) Methodology/Activities (20 Points).
    i. Describe the activities that will be implemented in a work plan 
to meet the objectives. The work plan should be directly related to the 
objectives.
    ii. Describe how you will monitor the objectives (chart reviews, 
patient comments/feedback, etc.).
    iii. Describe any collaborative efforts with any programs outside 
of PHN.
C. Program Evaluation (20 points)
    Describe the methods for evaluating the project activities. Each 
proposed project objective should have an evaluation component and the 
evaluation activities should appear on the work plan. At a minimum, 
projects should describe plans to collect or summarize evaluation 
information about all project activities. Please address the following 
for each of the proposed objectives:
    (1) Describe the community assessment results and what data will be 
selected to evaluate the success of the objective(s).
    (2) Describe how the data and patient satisfaction information will 
be collected to assess the programs objective(s) (e.g., methods used 
such as, but not limited to, providing mechanisms for patients to 
provide feedback on their experiences).
    (3) Identify when the data will be collected and the data analysis 
completed.
    (4) Describe the extent to which there are specific data sets, data 
bases or registries already in place to measure/monitor meeting 
objective.
    (5) Describe who will collect the data and any cost of the 
evaluation (whether internal or external)?
    (6) Describe where, when and to whom the data will be presented 
(only to the extent permitted by law, the data to be reported back to 
key stake-holders on the progress of the project, especially to inform 
clients about changes brought about as a direct result of listening to 
their needs).
    (7) Address anticipated obstacles to the success of the proposal 
such as underlying causes and the nature of their influence on 
accomplishing the objectives.
    (8) Describe how the community assessment will be used to identify 
high risk group of patient(s).
    (9) Describe the process that will be used to follow-up on the PHN 
Case Management Project findings/conclusions.
D. Organizational Capabilities, Key Personnel and Qualifications (25 
points)
    This section outlines the broader capacity of the organization to 
complete the project outlined in the work plan. It includes the 
identification of personnel responsible for completing tasks and the 
chain of responsibility for successful completion of the project 
outlined in the work plan.
    (1) Describe the organizational structure.
    (2) Describe what equipment (i.e., phone, Web sites, 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 throughout the agreement.
    (3) List key personnel who will work on the project.
    i. Identify staffing plan, existing personnel and new program staff 
to be hired.
    ii. In the appendix, include position descriptions and resumes for 
all key personnel. Position descriptions should clearly describe each 
position and duties indicating desired qualifications, experience, and 
requirements related to the proposed project and how they will be 
supervised. Resumes must indicate that the proposed staff member is 
qualified to carry out the proposed project activities and who will 
determine if the work of a contractor is acceptable.
    iii. If the project requires additional personnel beyond those 
covered by the grant award, (i.e., Information Technology support, 
volunteers, interviewers, etc.), note these and address how these 
positions will be filled and, if funds are required, the source of 
these funds.
    iv. If personnel are to be only partially funded by this grant, 
indicate the percentage of time to be allocated to this project and 
identify the resources used to fund the remainder of the individual's 
salary.
    (4) Capability
    i. Briefly describe the facility and user population.
    ii. Describe the organization's ability to conduct this initiative 
through linkages to community resources: partnerships established to 
refer out for additional services as needed for specialized treatment, 
care, and counseling services.
E. Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (15 points)
    Provide a clear estimate of the project program costs and 
justification for expenses for the entire grant period. The budget and 
budget justification should be consistent with the tasks identified in 
the work plan. The budget focus should be on developing and sustaining 
PHN case management services as well as supporting retention into care.
    (1) A categorical budget (Form SF 424A, Budget Information Non-
Construction Programs) completing each of the budget periods is 
requested.
    (2) Budget narrative that serves as justification for all costs, 
explaining why each line item is necessary or relevant to the proposed 
project. Include sufficient details to facilitate the determination of 
allowable costs.
    (3) Provide a succinct description of specific roles and activities 
of each person involved in the proposed project and their ability to 
perform in that capacity.
    (4) Budget justifications should include a brief narrative for the 
second year.
    (5) 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.
Multi-Year Project Requirements
    Projects requiring second, third, fourth, and/or fifth year funding 
must include a brief project narrative and budget (one additional page 
per year) addressing the developmental plans for each additional year 
of the project.
Appendix Items
     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.
     If including organizational chart(s), highlight proposed 
project staff and

[[Page 41991]]

their supervisor(s) as well as other key contacts within the 
organization and community contacts.
     Additional documents to support narrative (i.e. data 
tables, key news articles, etc.).

2. Review and Selection

    Each application will be prescreened by the DGM staff for 
eligibility and completeness as outlined in the funding announcement. 
Incomplete applications and applications that are non-responsive to the 
eligibility criteria will not be referred to the ORC. Applicants will 
be notified by DGM, via email or letter, to outline minor missing 
components (i.e., signature on the SF-424, audit documentation, key 
contact form) needed for an otherwise complete application. All missing 
documents must be sent to DGM on or before the due date listed in the 
email of notification of missing documents required.
    To obtain a minimum score for funding by the ORC, applicants must 
address all program requirements and provide all required 
documentation. Applicants that receive less than a minimum score will 
be considered to be ``Disapproved'' and will be informed via email or 
regular mail by the IHS Program Office of their application's 
deficiencies. A summary statement outlining the strengths and 
weaknesses of the application will be provided to each disapproved 
applicant. The summary statement will be sent to the Authorized 
Organizational Representative (AOR) that is identified on the face page 
(SF-424), of the application within 60 days of the completion of the 
Objective Review.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices

    The Notice of Award (NoA) is a legally binding document signed by 
the Grants Management Officer and serves as the official notification 
of the grant award. The NoA will be initiated by the DGM and will be 
mailed via postal mail or emailed to each entity that is approved for 
funding under this announcement. 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 grant, the terms 
and conditions of the award, the effective date of the award, and the 
budget/project period.
Disapproved Applicants
    Applicants who received a score less than the recommended funding 
level for approval, 60, and were deemed to be disapproved by the ORC 
will receive an Executive Summary Statement from the IHS Program Office 
within 30 days of the conclusion of the ORC outlining the weaknesses 
and strengths of their application submitted. The IHS program office 
will also provide additional contact information as needed to address 
questions and concerns as well as provide technical assistance if 
desired.
Approved But Unfunded Applicants
    Approved but unfunded applicants that met the minimum scoring range 
and were deemed by the ORC to be ``Approved'' but were not funded due 
to lack of funding, will have their applications held by DGM for a 
period of one year. If additional funding becomes available during the 
course of FY2012, the approved application maybe re-considered by the 
awarding program office for possible funding. The applicant will also 
receive an Executive Summary Statement from the IHS Program Office 
within 30 days of the conclusion of the ORC.

    Note:  Any correspondence other than the official NoA signed 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 IHS.

2. Administrative Requirements

    Cooperative agreements are administered in accordance with the 
following regulations, policies, and OMB cost principles:
    A. The criteria as outlined in this Program Announcement.
    B. Administrative Regulations for Grants:
     45 CFR Part 92, Uniform Administrative Requirements for 
Grants and Cooperative Agreements to State, Local and Tribal 
Governments.
     45 CFR Part 74, Uniform Administrative Requirements for 
Awards and Subawards to Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, 
and other Non-profit Organizations.
    C. Grants Policy:
     HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised 01/07.
    D. Cost Principles:
     Title 2: Grant and Agreements, Part 225--Cost Principles 
for State, Local, and Indian Tribal Governments (OMB Circular A-87).
     Title 2: Grant and Agreements, Part 230--Cost Principles 
for Non-Profit Organizations (OMB Circular A-122).
    E. Audit Requirements:
     OMB Circular A-133, Audits of States, Local Governments, 
and Non-profit Organizations.

2. Indirect Costs

    This section applies to all grant recipients that request 
reimbursement of indirect costs (IDC) in their grant application. In 
accordance with HHS Grants Policy Statement, Part II-27, IHS requires 
applicants to obtain a current IDC rate agreement prior to 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 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 is provided to 
the DGM.
    Generally, IDC rates for IHS grantees are negotiated with the 
Division of Cost Allocation (DCA) https://rates.psc.gov/ and the 
Department of Interior (National Business Center) https://www.aqd.nbc.gov/services/ICS.aspx. If your organization has questions 
regarding the indirect cost policy, please call (301) 443-5204 to 
request assistance.

4. Reporting Requirements

    Grantees 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.
    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. These reports must include a brief 
comparison of actual accomplishments to the goals established for the 
period, 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 budget/project 
period.

[[Page 41992]]

B. Financial Reports
    Federal Financial Report FFR (SF-425), Cash Transaction Reports are 
due 30 days after the close of every calendar quarter to the Division 
of Payment Management, HHS at: https://www.dpm.psc.gov. It is 
recommended that you also send a copy of your FFR (SF-425) report to 
your Grants Management Specialist. Failure to submit timely reports may 
cause a disruption in timely payments to your organization.
    Grantees are responsible and accountable for accurate information 
being reported on all required reports: the Progress Reports and 
Federal Financial Report.
C. Federal Subaward Reporting System (FSRS)
    This award may be subject to the ``Transparency Act'' subaward and 
executive compensation reporting requirements of 2 CFR Part 170.
    The Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as 
amended (``Transparency Act''), requires the Office of Management and 
Budget (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 
subawards and executive compensation under Federal assistance awards.
    Effective October 1, 2010, HIS implemented a Term of Award into all 
IHS Standard Terms and Conditions, NoAs and funding announcements 
regarding this 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 subaward obligation dollar threshold met for any 
specific reporting period. Additionally, all new (discretionary) IHS 
awards (where the project period is made up of more than one budget 
period) and where: (1) The project period start date was October 1, 
2010 or after and (2) the primary awardee will have a $25,000 subaward 
obligation dollar threshold during any specific reporting period will 
be required to address the FSRS reporting requirements. For the full 
IHS award term implementing this requirement and additional award 
applicability information, visit the Grants Management Grants Policy 
Web site at: https://www.ihs.gov/NonMedicalPrograms/gogp/index.cfm?module=gogp_policy_topics.
    Telecommunication for the hearing impaired is available at: TTY 
(301) 443-6394.

VII. Agency Contacts

    1. Questions on the programmatic issues may be directed to:
Ms. Tina Tah, RN/BSN/MBA, Project Official, Indian Health Service, 801 
Thompson Avenue, Suite 329, Rockville, Maryland 20852, (301) 443-0038, 
tina.tah@ihs.gov.
    2. Questions on grants management and fiscal matters may be 
directed to:
Mr. Andrew Diggs, Grants Management Specialist, Indian Health Service, 
801 Thompson Avenue, TMP Suite 300, Rockville, Maryland 20852, (301) 
443-2262, Andrew.diggs@ihs.gov.

VIII. Other Information

    The Public Health Service strongly encourages all 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.

    Dated: July 5, 2012.
Yvette Roubideaux,
Director, Indian Health Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-17295 Filed 7-16-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4165-16-P