Office of Human Resources; Medical Professionals Recruitment and Continuing Education Programs, 24828-24835 [2016-09812]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
• Indian Health Service

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 81 (Wednesday, April 27, 2016)]
[Notices]
[Pages 24828-24835]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-09812]


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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Indian Health Service


Office of Human Resources; Medical Professionals Recruitment and 
Continuing Education Programs

Announcement Type: New Limited Competition Cooperative Agreement
Funding Announcement Number: HHS-2016-IHS-HPR-0001
Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Number: 93.970
Key Dates
    Application Deadline Date: June 27, 2016
    Review Date: July 5-8, 2016
    Earliest Anticipated Start Date: July 15, 2016
    Proof of Non-Profit Status Due Date: June 27, 2016

I. Funding Opportunity Description

Statutory Authority

    The Indian Health Service (IHS) is accepting competitive 
cooperative agreement applications for the Medical Professionals 
Recruitment and Continuing Education Program. This program is 
authorized under: The Snyder Act, 25 U.S.C. 13. This program is 
described in the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) under 
93.970.

Background

    The mission of the IHS is to raise the physical, mental, social and 
spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) to the 
highest level. The IHS, an agency within the Department of Health and 
Human Services (HHS), is responsible for providing Federal health 
services to AI/AN. The provision of health services to members of 
Federally-recognized Tribes grew out of the special government-to-
government relationship between the Federal Government and Indian 
Tribes. The IHS is the principal Federal health care provider and 
health advocate for Indian people and its mission is to raise their 
health status to the highest possible level. The IHS provides a 
comprehensive health service delivery system for approximately 2.3 
million AI/AN who belong to 567 Federally recognized Tribes in 35 
states.

Purpose

    The purpose of this IHS cooperative agreement is to enhance medical 
professional recruitment and continuing education programs, services 
and activities for AI/AN people. The agency wants to facilitate 
continuing medical education for AI/AN physicians, through annual 
meetings and other venues that are culturally competent and sensitive. 
Another purpose is to recruit AI/AN health professionals to pursue jobs 
that serve AI/AN people and improve the health care delivery system. A 
third purpose is to provide opportunities for AI/AN youth to learn 
about the various Federal agencies and possible careers within the 
Federal Government that will result in a national mentoring program and 
creation of a pipeline for AI/AN youth into health careers. IHS will 
provide funds in the amount of $105,000 in the first year (Fiscal Year 
2016 only) to be used to complete the following Fiscal Year 2016 
activities:
     To support a national Native American youth conference, 
designed to expose high school students to health care careers, as well 
as prepare them for college with the goal of becoming health care 
providers.
     To offer freshman and sophomore undergraduate students 
educational workshops to help them explore and prepare them for health 
education and careers in health care and/or research.
     To offer junior and senior undergraduate students, 
preparing to apply for medical and health professions schools, 
educational opportunities designed to provide guidance regarding 
personal statement reviews, mock interviews, and mentorship on the 
admission process.
    The purpose of the activities listed above is to increase the 
number of AI/AN youth pursuing careers in the health professions, 
thereby increasing the number of AI/AN medical professionals available 
to manage the chronic health challenges of AI/AN patients, including 
diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and obesity.

Limited Competition Justification

    Competition is limited to organizations with expertise in advancing 
the health of AI/AN people. This limitation is necessary in order for 
IHS to ensure that the training, education, and outreach provided 
through this award are provided in a culturally competent manner. 
Additionally, applicants must have experience hosting healthcare forums 
and meetings combining modern medicine and traditional health practices 
to enhance health care delivery to AI/AN communities. Through such 
experience, applicants should have existing relationships with 
stakeholders that will encourage attendance at the meeting funded 
through this award. Applicants must offer educational programs, 
services and activities specifically tailored to motivating AI/AN 
students to remain in the academic pipeline and to pursue a career in 
the health professions and/or biomedical research. Finally, applicants 
must have experience in providing leadership and programs in various 
care arenas affecting AI/AN, such as diabetes mellitus, human 
immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), 
domestic violence, and methamphetamine use, in order to address the 
most pressing healthcare needs of AI/AN communities.
    Pre-Conference Grant Requirements: The awardee is required to 
comply with the ``HHS Policy on Promoting Efficient Spending: Use of 
Appropriated Funds for Conferences and Meeting Space, Food, Promotional 
Items, and Printing and Publications,'' dated December 16, 2013 
(``Policy''), as applicable to conferences funded by grants and 
cooperative agreements. The Policy is available at https://www.hhs.gov/grants/contracts/contract-policies-regulations/conference-spending/
    The awardee is required to:

Provide a separate detailed budget justification and narrative for each 
conference anticipated. The cost categories to be addressed are as 
follows: (1) Contract/Planner, (2) Meeting Space/Venue, (3) 
Registration Web site, (4) Audio Visual, (5) Speakers Fees, (6) Non-
Federal Attendee Travel, (7) Registration Fees, (8) Other (explain in 
detail and cost breakdown). For additional questions please contact 
Nannette Bellini on 301-443-0049 or email at Nannette.bellini@ihs.gov

II. Award Information

Type of Award

    Cooperative Agreement.

Estimated Funds Available

    The total amount of funding identified for the current fiscal year 
(FY) 2016 is approximately $105,000. Individual award amounts are 
anticipated to be between $25,000 and $105,000. The amount of funding 
available for competing and continuation awards issued under this 
announcement are subject to the availability of appropriations and 
budgetary priorities of the Agency. The

[[Page 24829]]

IHS is under no obligation to make awards that are selected for funding 
under this announcement.
The funding amounts per FY for this three-year cooperative agreement 
are as follows:

 FY 2016 $105,000 ($80,000 to support activities to promote AI/
AN youth in pursuing health related careers)
 FY 2017 $25,000
 FY 2018 $25,000
    The total amount of funding for this three-year project period is 
$155,000.

Anticipated Number of Awards

    One limited competition award will be issued under this program 
announcement.

Project Period

    The project period will be for three (3) years and will run 
consecutively from June 15, 2016 to June 14, 2019.

Cooperative Agreement

    Cooperative agreements awarded by the HHS are 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) The IHS would like to support an annual meeting of AI/AN 
physicians and other health professionals. At least two IHS staff will 
be part of the planning committee for any meetings or training. They 
will work closely with the planning staff on all aspects of the meeting 
and training including development of the agenda, keynote speakers, and 
special educational sessions, etc. The IHS will also provide links to 
the applicant's Web site from the IHS Web site.
    (2) IHS staff will also participate in any Federal meetings with 
HHS and AI/AN youth to help facilitate information about the various 
agencies and to encourage youth to consider careers within HHS. This 
will assist youth to become more knowledgeable about Federal programs 
and resources available to AI/AN communities.
    (3) IHS Clinical Support Center (CSC) will provide a process for 
offering continuing education (CE) credits for the annual meeting 
participants. The CSC is accredited as a sponsor of CE by various 
medical professional organizations.
    (4) IHS Division of Health Professions Support will share 
information on recruitment strategies and current program information 
with applicant's staff and members. This sharing and dialogue will 
enhance communications and improve efforts to reach out to more AI/AN 
physicians and medical professionals.
B. Grantee Cooperative Agreement Award Activities
    (1) Provide overall coordination and management of the annual 
meeting of AI/AN physicians and other health professionals, including 
hosting the planning committee and setting up conference calls and 
meetings in preparation of the annual meeting.
    (i) Manage registration and logistics for annual meeting.
    (ii) Distribute flyers and brochures to promote the annual meeting.
    (iii) Finalize the agenda and all materials.
    (iv) Provide meeting information on applicant's Web site with links 
to IHS Web site.
    (2) Implement a national Native American youth health careers 
conference, including organizing the planning committee and setting up 
conference calls and meetings in preparation for the conference.
    (i) Manage registration and logistics for the conference.
    (ii) Distribute flyers and brochures to promote the conference.
    (iii) Finalize the agenda and all materials.
    (3) Coordinate and implement educational workshops for freshman and 
sophomore undergraduate students to help them explore and prepare for 
careers in health care and/or research.
    (4) Coordinate and implement educational workshops for junior and 
senior undergraduate students preparing to apply for medical and health 
professions schools. This workshop should help students with writing 
personal statements, conducting mock interviews, and providing 
mentorship on the admission process.

III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligibility

    This new limited competition funding opportunity is limited to 
501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Proof of 501(c)(3) status must be 
provided. In addition, applicant organizations must meet the following 
criteria:
     Have as a core goal improving the health of AI/AN.
     Be committed to pursuing excellence in Native American 
health care by promoting education in the medical disciplines, honoring 
traditional health principles and restoring the balance of mind, body, 
and spirit.
     Offer educational programs, services, and activities that 
motivate AI/AN students to remain in the academic pipeline and to 
pursue a career in the health professions and/or biomedical research.
     Foster forums where modern medicine combines with 
traditional healing to enhance health care delivery to AI/AN 
communities.
     Provide leadership in various care arenas affecting AI/AN, 
such as diabetes mellitus, HIV/AIDS, domestic violence and 
methamphetamine use.

    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. If deemed ineligible, IHS 
will not return the application. The applicant will be notified by 
email by the Division of Grants Management (DGM) of this decision.
Proof of Non-Profit Status
    Organizations claiming non-profit status must submit proof. A copy 
of the 501(c)(3) Certificate must be received with the application 
submission by the Application Deadline Date listed under the Key Dates 
section on page one of this announcement.
    Applicants submitting any of the above additional documentation 
after the initial application submission due date are required to 
ensure the information was received by the IHS by obtaining 
documentation confirming delivery (i.e., FedEx tracking, postal return 
receipt, etc.).

[[Page 24830]]

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/dgm/funding/.
    Questions regarding the electronic application process may be 
directed to Mr. Paul Gettys at (301) 443-2114 or (301) 443-5204.

2. Content and Form Application Submission

    The applicant must include the project narrative as an attachment 
to the application package. Mandatory documents for all applicants 
include:
     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 five pages).
     Project Narrative (must be single spaced and not exceed 
ten pages).
    [cir] Background information on the organization.
    [cir] Proposed scope of work, objectives, and activities that 
provide a description of what will be accomplished, including a one-
page Timeframe Chart.
     501(c)(3) Certificate (if applicable).
     Biographical sketches for all key personnel.
     Contractor/Consultant resumes or qualifications and scope 
of work.
     Disclosure of Lobbying Activities (SF-LLL).
     Certification Regarding Lobbying (GG-Lobbying Form).
     Copy of current Negotiated Indirect Cost (IDC) rate 
agreement (required) in order to receive IDC.
     Documentation of current Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB) Audit as required by 45 CFR part 75, subpart F or other 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 and 
cooperative agreements 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 address and answer all questions listed under 
the narrative and place them under the evaluation criteria (refer to 
Section V.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 familiar with 
the applicant's activities and accomplishments prior to this 
cooperative agreement award. If the narrative exceeds the page limit, 
only the first ten pages will be reviewed. The ten-page limit for the 
narrative does not include the work plan, standard forms, table of 
contents, budget, budget justifications, 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 (4 Page Limitation)
    Section 1: Needs.
    Describe the applicant's organizational commitment and 
administrative infrastructure to support this agreement. Explain the 
previous planning activities for any conferences, annual meetings and 
other forums or programs for AI/AN physicians and other health 
professionals. Describe the relationship with the IHS and the capacity 
to support this work.
Part B: Program Planning and Evaluation (3 Page Limitation)
    Section 1: Program Plans.
    Describe any conferences, annual meetings and other forums or 
program plans for AI/AN physicians and health professionals in clear 
detail including the proposed timelines and activities. The purpose of 
the meeting would be to provide continuing education for physicians and 
other health professionals on topics to improve the health of AI/AN 
patients, families and communities. Describe the anticipated impact of 
the meeting as it relates to improving the health services for AI/AN. 
In addition, describe plans to develop a mentoring program and pipeline 
for recruiting more AI/AN youth into the medical professions. Describe 
the target audience and goals of such programs to increase the number 
of AI/AN physicians and health care professionals providing health 
services to the Native American population.
    Section 2: Program Evaluation.
    Describe fully and clearly the plans for evaluating the impact of 
an annual meeting of AI/AN physicians and other health care 
professionals with anticipated results. Describe the plans for 
mentoring programs and preparing more AI/AN youth to enter the medical 
professionals in the workforce.
Part C: Program Report (3 Page Limitation)
    Section 1: Describe major accomplishments over the last 24 months 
as it relates to recruiting more AI/AN youth into the medical 
professions and continuing to provide continuing education 
opportunities (meetings, conferences) for AI/AN physicians and other 
medical professionals. Please identify and describe significant program 
achievements associated with improving the health of the AI/AN 
population. Provide a comparison of the actual accomplishments to the 
goals established for the project.
    B. Budget Narrative: This narrative must include a line item budget 
with a narrative justification for all expenditures identifying 
reasonable and allowable costs necessary to accomplish the goals and 
objectives as outlined in the project narrative. Budget should match 
the scope of work described in the project narrative. The budget 
narrative should not exceed five pages.

3. Submission Dates and Times

    Applications must be submitted electronically through Grants.gov by 
11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on the Application Deadline Date 
listed in the Key Dates section on page one of this announcement. Any 
application received after the application deadline will not be 
accepted for processing, nor will it be given further consideration for 
funding. Grants.gov will notify the applicant via email if the 
application is rejected.
    If technical challenges arise and assistance is required with the 
electronic application process, contact

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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 Mr. Paul Gettys (Paul.Gettys@ihs.gov), DGM Grant Systems 
Coordinator, by telephone at (301) 443-2114 or (301) 443-5204. Please 
be sure to contact Mr. Gettys at least ten days prior to the 
application deadline. Please do not contact the DGM until you have 
received a Grants.gov tracking number. In the event you are not able to 
obtain a tracking number, call the DGM as soon as possible.
    If the applicant needs to submit a paper application instead of 
submitting electronically through Grants.gov, a waiver must be 
requested. Prior approval must be requested and obtained from Mr. 
Robert Tarwater, Director, DGM, (see Section IV.6 below for additional 
information). The waiver must: (1) Be documented in writing (emails are 
acceptable), before submitting a paper application, and (2) include 
clear justification for the need to deviate from the required 
electronic grants submission process. A written waiver request must be 
sent to GrantsPolicy@ihs.gov with a copy to Robert.Tarwater@ihs.gov. 
Once the waiver request has been approved, the applicant will receive a 
confirmation of approval email containing submission instructions and 
the mailing address to submit the application. A copy of the written 
approval must be submitted along with the hardcopy of the application 
that is mailed to DGM. Paper applications that are submitted without a 
copy of the signed waiver from the Director of the DGM will not be 
reviewed or considered for funding. The applicant will be notified via 
email of this decision by the Grants Management Officer of the DGM. 
Paper applications must be received by the DGM no later than 5:00 p.m., 
EDT, on the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key Dates section 
on page one of this announcement. 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.
    If the applicant receives a waiver to submit paper application 
documents, they must follow the rules and timelines that are noted 
below. The applicant must seek assistance at least ten days prior to 
the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key Dates section on page 
one of this announcement.
    Applicants that do not adhere to the timelines for System for Award 
Management (SAM) 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 a waiver from the agency must be 
obtained.
     If it is determined that a waiver is needed, the applicant 
must submit a request in writing (emails are acceptable) to 
GrantsPolicy@ihs.gov with a copy to Robert.Tarwater@ihs.gov. Please 
include a clear justification for the need to deviate from the standard 
electronic submission process.
     If the waiver is approved, the application should be sent 
directly to the DGM by the Application Deadline Date listed in the Key 
Dates section on page one of this announcement.
     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 
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 electronically submitting the application, the 
applicant will receive an automatic acknowledgment from Grants.gov that 
contains a Grants.gov tracking number. The DGM will download the 
application from Grants.gov and provide necessary copies to the 
appropriate agency officials. Neither the DGM nor the Office of Human 
Resources will notify the applicant 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 SAM database. 
The DUNS number is a unique 9-digit identification number provided by 
D&B which uniquely identifies each entity. The DUNS number is site 
specific; therefore, each distinct performance site may be assigned a 
DUNS number. Obtaining a DUNS number is easy, and there is no charge. 
To obtain a DUNS number, please access it through https://fedgov.dnb.com/webform, or to expedite the process, call (866) 705-
5711.
    All HHS recipients are required by the Federal Funding 
Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006, as amended (``Transparency 
Act''), to report information on sub-awards. Accordingly, all IHS 
grantees must notify potential first-tier sub-recipients that no entity 
may receive a first-tier sub-award unless the entity has provided its 
DUNS number to the prime grantee organization. This requirement ensures 
the use of a universal identifier to enhance the quality of information 
available to the public pursuant to the Transparency Act.
System for Award Management (SAM)
    Organizations that were not registered with Central Contractor 
Registration and have not registered with SAM will need to obtain a 
DUNS number first and then access the SAM online registration

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through the SAM home page at https://www.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). Completing and submitting the registration takes 
approximately one hour to complete and SAM registration will take 3-5 
business days to process. Registration with the SAM is free of charge. 
Applicants may register online at https://www.sam.gov.
    Additional information on implementing the Transparency Act, 
including the specific requirements for DUNS and SAM, can be found on 
the IHS Grants Management, Grants Policy Web site: https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/.

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 75 points is required for funding. Points are assigned as follows:

1. Criteria

A. Introduction and Need for Assistance (30 points)
    This section should include an understanding of the need for 
assistance and collaboration for any meetings or trainings. Applicant 
should demonstrate demographic and health status of the AI/AN people; 
geographic and social factors including availability of health 
providers and access to care; funding streams and available resources 
and partners that can support this work; and organizational structure 
of the Indian health system. Applicant should also describe the current 
and projected demand for AI/AN providers.
B. Project Objective(s), Work Plan and Approach (40 points)
    This section should demonstrate the soundness and effectiveness of 
the applicant's proposal. Describe how the planning will be managed and 
the role of all organizations.
C. Program Evaluation (10 points)
    This section should show how the progress on this project will be 
assessed and how the success of the recruitment program will be 
evaluated. Specifically, list and describe the outcomes by which the 
program will be evaluated. Identify the individuals responsible for 
evaluation of the annual meeting and their qualifications.
D. Organizational Capabilities, Key Personnel and Qualifications (10 
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 program 
outlined in the work plan.
    (1) Describe the structure of the organization.
    (2) Describe the ability of the organization to manage the proposed 
projects.
    (3) List key personnel who will work on the projects and annual 
meeting. In the Appendix, include position descriptions and resumes of 
key staff and their duties and experience. Describe who will be writing 
progress reports.
E. Categorical Budget and Budget Justification (10 points)
    This section should provide a clear estimate of the program costs 
and justification for expenses for the cooperative agreement period. 
The budget and budget justification should be consistent with the tasks 
identified in the work plan. 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. Categorical budget (Form SF 424A) 
should be completed for each of the budget periods requested.
Multi-Year Project Requirements
    Projects requiring a second, third, fourth, and/or fifth year must 
include a brief project narrative and budget (one additional page per 
year) addressing the developmental plans for each additional year of 
the project.
Additional Documents Can Be Uploaded as Appendix Items in Grants.gov
     Work plan, logic model and/or time line for proposed 
objectives.
     Position descriptions for key staff.
     Resumes of key staff that reflect current duties.
     Consultant or contractor proposed scope of work and letter 
of commitment (if applicable).
     Current Indirect Cost Agreement.
     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. 
Applications that meet the eligibility criteria shall be reviewed for 
merit by the ORC based on evaluation criteria in this funding 
announcement. The ORC could be composed of both Tribal and Federal 
reviewers appointed by the IHS program to review and make 
recommendations on these applications. The technical review process 
ensures selection of quality projects in a national competition for 
limited funding. Incomplete applications and applications that are non-
responsive to the eligibility criteria will not be referred to the ORC. 
The applicant will be notified via email of this decision by the Grants 
Management Officer of the DGM. Applicants will be notified by DGM, via 
email, to outline minor missing components (i.e., budget narratives, 
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.

 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 in our grant 
system, GrantSolutions (https://www.grantsolutions.gov). Each entity 
that is approved for funding under this announcement will need to 
request or have a user account in GrantSolutions in order to retrieve 
their NoA. The NoA is the authorizing document for which

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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 (75) 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 strengths and 
weaknesses 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 FY 2016 the approved but unfunded application may be 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: CFR.
     Uniform Administrative Requirements HHS Awards, located at 
45 CFR part 75.
    C. Grants Policy:
     HHS Grants Policy Statement, Revised 01/07.
    D. Cost Principles:
     Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, ``Cost 
Principles,'' located at 45 CFR part 75, subpart E.
    E. Audit Requirements:
     Uniform Administrative Requirements for HHS Awards, 
``Audit Requirements,'' located at 45 CFR part 75, subpart F.

3. 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 (Interior Business Center) https://www.doi.gov/ibc/services/finance/indirect-Cost-Services/indian-tribes. For 
questions regarding the IDC policy, please call the Grants Management 
Specialist listed under ``Agency Contacts'' or the main DGM office at 
(301) 443-5204.

4. Reporting Requirements

    The grantee must submit required reports consistent with the 
applicable deadlines. Failure to submit required reports within the 
time allowed may result in suspension or termination of an active 
grant, withholding of additional awards for the project, or other 
enforcement actions such as withholding of payments or converting to 
the reimbursement method of payment. Continued failure to submit 
required reports may result in one or both of the following: (1) The 
imposition of special award provisions; and (2) the non-funding or non-
award of other eligible projects or activities. This requirement 
applies whether the delinquency is attributable to the failure of the 
grantee organization or the individual responsible for preparation of 
the reports. Per DGM policy, all reports are required to be submitted 
electronically by attaching them as a ``Grant Note'' in GrantSolutions. 
Personnel responsible for submitting reports will be required to obtain 
a login and password for GrantSolutions. Please see the Agency Contacts 
list in section VII for the systems contact information.
    The reporting requirements for this program are noted below.
A. Progress Reports
    Program progress reports are required semi-annually, within 30 days 
after the budget period ends. 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 budget/project period.
    The final report for budget/project year one (FY 2016 only) should 
include:
     The date of the national Native American youth conference; 
number of high school student attendees; basic information regarding 
the agenda; and a summary of the results of attendee evaluations.
     The total number of workshops conducted for freshman and 
sophomore undergraduate students to help them explore and prepare for 
health education and careers in health care and/or research; number of 
attendees at each workshop; basic information regarding the agenda; and 
a summary of the results of attendee evaluations.
     The total number of workshops conducted for junior and 
senior undergraduate students preparing to apply to medical and health 
professions schools; number of attendees at each workshop; basic 
information regarding the agenda; and a summary of the results of 
attendee evaluations.
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 Payment 
Management Services, HHS at: https://www.dpm.psc.gov. It is recommended 
that the applicant also send a copy of the FFR (SF-425) report to the 
Grants Management Specialist. Failure to submit timely reports may 
cause a disruption in timely payments to the organization.
    Grantees are responsible and accountable for accurate information 
being reported on all required reports: The Progress Reports and 
Federal Financial Report (FFR).
C. Post Conference Grant Reporting
    The following requirements were enacted in Section 3003 of the 
Consolidated Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013, and Section 119 of 
the Continuing Appropriations Act, 2014; Office of Management and 
Budget Memorandum M-12-12: All HHS/IHS awards containing grants funds 
allocated for conferences will be

[[Page 24834]]

required to complete a mandatory post award report for all conferences. 
Specifically: The total amount of funds provided in this award/
cooperative agreement that were spent for ``Conference X'', must be 
reported in final detailed actual costs within 15 days of the 
completion of the conference. Cost categories to address should be: (1) 
Contract/Planner, (2) Meeting Space/Venue, (3) Registration Web site, 
(4) Audio Visual, (5) Speakers Fees, (6) Non-Federal Attendee Travel, 
(7) Registration Fees, (8) Other.
D. Federal Sub-Award Reporting System (FSRS)
    This award may be subject to the Transparency Act sub-award and 
executive compensation reporting requirements of 2 CFR part 170.
    The Transparency Act requires the OMB to establish a single 
searchable database, accessible to the public, with information on 
financial assistance awards made by Federal agencies. The Transparency 
Act also includes a requirement for recipients of Federal grants to 
report information about first-tier sub-awards and executive 
compensation under Federal assistance awards.
    IHS has implemented a Term of Award into all IHS Standard Terms and 
Conditions, NoAs and funding announcements regarding the FSRS reporting 
requirement. This IHS Term of Award is applicable to all IHS grant and 
cooperative agreements issued on or after October 1, 2010, with a 
$25,000 sub-award obligation dollar threshold met for any specific 
reporting period. Additionally, all new (discretionary) IHS awards 
(where the 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 sub-award 
obligation dollar threshold during any specific reporting period will 
be required to address the FSRS reporting. For the full IHS award term 
implementing this requirement and additional award applicability 
information, visit the DGM Grants Policy Web site at: https://www.ihs.gov/dgm/policytopics/.
E. Compliance With Executive Order 13166 Implementation of Services 
Accessibility Provisions for All Grant Application Packages and Funding 
Opportunity Announcements
    Recipients of federal financial assistance (FFA) from HHS must 
administer their programs in compliance with federal civil rights law. 
This means that recipients of HHS funds must ensure equal access to 
their programs without regard to a person's race, color, national 
origin, disability, age and, in some circumstances, sex and religion. 
This includes ensuring your programs are accessible to persons with 
limited English proficiency. HHS provides guidance to recipients of FFA 
on meeting their legal obligation to take reasonable steps to provide 
meaningful access to their programs by persons with limited English 
proficiency. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/special-topics/limited-english-proficiency/guidance-federal-financial-assistance-recipients-title-VI/.
    The HHS Office for Civil Rights also provides guidance on complying 
with civil rights laws enforced by HHS. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/section-1557/; and https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/. Recipients of FFA also have 
specific legal obligations for serving qualified individuals with 
disabilities. Please see https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/disability/. Please contact the HHS Office for 
Civil Rights for more information about obligations and prohibitions 
under federal civil rights laws at https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/disability/ or call 1-800-368-1019 or TDD 1-800-
537-7697. Also note it is an HHS Departmental goal to ensure access to 
quality, culturally competent care, including long-term services and 
supports, for vulnerable populations. For further guidance on providing 
culturally and linguistically appropriate services, recipients should 
review the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically 
Appropriate Services in Health and Health Care at https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/browse.aspx?lvl=2&lvlid=53.
    Pursuant to 45 CFR 80.3(d), an individual shall not be deemed 
subjected to discrimination by reason of his/her exclusion from 
benefits limited by federal law to individuals eligible for benefits 
and services from the Indian Health Service.
    Recipients will be required to sign the HHS-690 Assurance of 
Compliance form which can be obtained from the following Web site: 
https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/forms/hhs-690.pdf, and send it 
directly to the: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office 
of Civil Rights, 200 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20201.
F. Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity Information System 
(FAPIIS)
    The IHS is required to review and consider any information about 
the applicant that is in the Federal Awardee Performance and Integrity 
Information System (FAPIIS) before making any award in excess of the 
simplified acquisition threshold (currently $150,000) over the period 
of performance. An applicant may review and comment on any information 
about itself that a federal awarding agency previously entered. IHS 
will consider any comments by the applicant, in addition to other 
information in FAPIIS in making a judgment about the applicant's 
integrity, business ethics, and record of performance under federal 
awards when completing the review of risk posed by applicants as 
described in 45 CFR 75.205.
    As required by 45 CFR part 75 Appendix XII of the Uniform Guidance, 
non-federal entities (NFEs) are required to disclose in FAPIIS any 
information about criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings, and/
or affirm that there is no new information to provide. This applies to 
NFEs that receive federal awards (currently active grants, cooperative 
agreements, and procurement contracts) greater than $10,000,000 for any 
period of time during the period of performance of an award/project.
Mandatory Disclosure Requirements
    As required by 2 CFR part 200 of the Uniform Guidance, and the HHS 
implementing regulations at 45 CFR part 75, effective January 1, 2016, 
the IHS must require a non-federal entity or an applicant for a federal 
award to disclose, in a timely manner, in writing to the IHS or pass-
through entity all violations of federal criminal law involving fraud, 
bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the federal 
award.
    Submission is required for all applicants and recipients, in 
writing, to the IHS and to the HHS Office of Inspector General all 
information related to violations of federal criminal law involving 
fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the 
federal award. 45 CFR 75.113
    Disclosures must be sent in writing to: U.S. Department of Health 
and Human Services, Indian Health Service, Division of Grants 
Management, ATTN: Robert Tarwater, Director, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail 
Stop 09E70, Rockville, Maryland 20857.
    (Include ``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in subject line)
    Ofc: (301) 443-5204
    Fax: (301) 594-0899
    Email: Robert.Tarwater@ihs.gov
AND
    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector 
General, ATTN: Mandatory Grant

[[Page 24835]]

Disclosures, Intake Coordinator, 330 Independence Avenue SW., Cohen 
Building, Room 5527, Washington, DC 20201. URL: https://oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/index.asp.
    (Include ``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in subject line)
    Fax: (202) 205-0604 (Include ``Mandatory Grant Disclosures'' in 
subject line) or.
    Email: MandatoryGranteeDisclosures@oig.hhs.gov.
    Failure to make required disclosures can result in any of the 
remedies described in 45 CFR 75.371 Remedies for noncompliance, 
including suspension or debarment (See 2 CFR parts 180 and 376 and 31 
U.S.C. 3321).

VII. Agency Contacts

    1. Questions on the programmatic issues may be directed to: Susan 
Karol, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 
08E53, Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: 301-443-1083, Fax: 301-443-4794, 
Email: Susan.Karol@ihs.gov.
    2. Questions on grants management and fiscal matters may be 
directed to: Ms. Cherron Smith, Grants Management Specialist, 5600 
Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: 301-443-
5204, Fax: 301-443-9602, Email: Cherron.Smith@ihs.gov.
    3. Questions on systems matters may be directed to: Paul Gettys, 
Grant Systems Coordinator, 5600 Fishers Lane, Mail Stop: 09E70, 
Rockville, MD 20857, Phone: 301-443-2114; or the DGM main line 301-443-
5204, Fax: 301-443-9602. Email: Paul.Gettys@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: April 20, 2016.
Elizabeth A. Fowler,
Deputy Director for Management Operations, Indian Health Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-09812 Filed 4-26-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4165-16-P