SLED Opportunity · OHIO · MONTGOMERY COUNTY

    Medical TPA and Pharmacy Benefit Manager for Montgomery County Employees

    Issued by Montgomery County
    countyRFPMontgomery CountySol. 227710
    Closed
    STATUS
    Closed
    due Apr 1, 2026
    PUBLISHED
    Feb 6, 2026
    Posting date
    JURISDICTION
    Montgomery County
    county
    NAICS CODE
    524298
    AI-classified industry

    AI Summary

    Montgomery County seeks proposals for Third-Party Administrator and Pharmacy Benefit Manager services for employee medical plans. Proposals due by April 1, 2026.

    Opportunity details

    Solicitation No.
    227710
    Type / RFx
    RFP
    Status
    open
    Level
    county
    Published Date
    February 6, 2026
    Due Date
    April 1, 2026
    NAICS Code
    524298AI guide
    Jurisdiction
    Montgomery County
    State
    OHIO
    Agency
    Montgomery County

    Description

    The Montgomery County Purchasing Department is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for vendor(s) to submit proposals for a Third-Party Administrator (TPA) for the employee medical plan claims administrative services and/or Pharmacy Benefit Manager services.  Montgomery County is requesting responses from highly qualified firms with extensive experience in providing Administrative Services for a public sector employer in order to obtain a competitive net cost. All submissions are due before 1:30 pm on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

    Background

    For all questions about the RFP itself, or the contents herein, Proposers must use the OpenGov Question and Answer portal.

    For OpenGov questions or issues, please reach out to Jessica Shirley at shirleyj@mcohio.org or call the Montgomery County Purchasing Department at 937-225-4699.

     

    Project Details

    • Reference ID: PP-2026-0012
    • Department: Human Resources
    • Department Head: Buddy Berry (Director)

    Important Dates

    • Questions Due: 2026-02-23T04:59:10.781Z
    • Answers Posted By: 2026-03-11T17:30:21.896Z

    Addenda

    • Official Notice #1: Tentative Presentation Time Frame (released 2026-02-11T12:57:33.802Z) —
      Please be advised that Montgomery County intends to conduct in‑person presentations with selected top‑scoring vendors during the week of June 8–12, 2026. These dates are subject to change, but we will do our best to stay on the provided timeline.
       
      Only invited vendors will participate, and participation will be required to occur on-site. Please note that not all vendors will receive an invitation to present.
    • Addendum #1 (released 2026-02-11T19:30:13.563Z) —

      Please note that on Proposal Section 6, Question 1.1 (Non-Disclosure Agreement), a required Cover Letter has been added to the question. This must be completed to properly submit proposal. 

      Please use the See What Changed link to view all the changes made by this addendum.

    Evaluation Criteria

    • Financial Savings & Transparency (20 pts)

      • Ingredient cost management, generic dispensing rates, rebate guarantees and pass-through transparency

      • Specialty drug cost controls, prior authorization savings, step therapy effectiveness

      • Pricing methodology disclosure – AWP discounts, MAC pricing, dispensing fees

      • Financial guarantees and performance-based fee structures

    • Network Access & Pharmacy Coverage (15 pts)

      • Retail pharmacy network adequacy, geographic coverage, 24/7 access

      • Mail-order pharmacy services, 90-day supply options

      • Specialty pharmacy network and access to high-cost medications

      • Network disruption analysis and transition support

    • Formulary & Clinical Management (15 pts)

      • Formulary design and clinical appropriateness, prior authorization processes and turnaround times

      • Step therapy protocols, quantity limits, drug utilization review

      • Clinical programs for chronic conditions, medication therapy management

      • Formulary updates and communication processes

    • Specialty Pharmacy Services (12 pts)

      • Specialty drug management and cost containment, patient support programs

      • Clinical oversight for high-cost medications, adherence monitoring

      • Site-of-care optimization (medical vs pharmacy benefit)

      • Specialty network adequacy and patient access

    • Member Services & Experience (10 pts)

      • Call center performance, pharmacy help desk support, member portal functionality

      • Prescription cost transparency tools, formulary lookup capabilities

      • Mobile app features, digital ID cards, pharmacy locator tools

      • Member education and medication adherence programs

    • Account Management & Implementation (10 pts)

      • Implementation timeline and project management, data migration capabilities

      • Account team structure, meeting frequency, escalation processes

      • Change management support, formulary transition communications

      • Integration with medical TPA and other vendors

    • Reporting & Analytics (8 pts)

      • Standard reporting (utilization, cost trends, generic rates, rebates)

      • Ad-hoc reporting capabilities, self-service analytics platforms

      • Data integration with medical claims, real-time reporting access

      • Predictive analytics, drug trend forecasting, clinical outcomes reporting

    • General Administration & Claims Processing (6 pts)

      • Claims processing accuracy and turnaround times, electronic prescribing capabilities

      • Coordination of benefits, Medicare Part D integration

      • Compliance with regulatory requirements (HIPAA, state regulations)

      • System reliability, disaster recovery, security protocols

    • Performance Guarantees (2 pts)

      • Service level agreements and financial penalties for non-performance

      • Claims processing accuracy guarantees, customer service standards

      • Clinical program performance metrics, cost savings guarantees

      • Rebate guarantee structures and audit rights

    • References & Performance History (2 pts)

      • Public sector references, client retention rates

      • Performance history with similar-sized groups, union/civil service experience

      • Client satisfaction scores and testimonials

    • Plan Administration & Claims Operations (20 pts)
      • Claims Accuracy & Auto‑Adjudication – financial accuracy %, procedural accuracy %, auto‑adjudication rate; edit logic; resubmission controls. 

      • Turnaround Times – clean claims, appealed claims, coordination of benefits (COB), subrogation effectiveness. 

      • Appeals & Grievances – compliance to timelines, member advocacy, escalation paths, independent review processes. 

      • Coordination Programs – COB, subrogation recoveries, Medicare integration (ESRD, MSP rules), workers’ comp overlap. 

      • Quality Controls & Audit Readiness – internal QA, external audit history, corrective action management. 

    • Network & Access (Medical & Behavioral) (15 pts)
      • Network Adequacy & Geo‑Access – time/distance standards, PCP/specialist coverage, rural/underserved coverage. Access to key hospitals and physician, Telehealth/virtual care access

      • Disruption Analysis – current provider match, out‑of‑network exposure, transition mitigation. 

      • Discounts & Methodology Transparency – allowed amounts methodology, OON repricing

    • Member Experience & Customer Service (15 pts)
      • Call Center Performance – speed to answer, abandonment, first call resolution, hours, language access. 

      • Digital Experience & Accessibility – web/mobile app usability, ID cards (digital/physical), provider directory accuracy. 

      • Care Navigation & Advocacy – concierge support, pre‑service estimates, steerage to high‑value providers. 

    • Data, Reporting & Analytics (12 pts)
      • Standard & Ad‑hoc Reporting – monthly/quarterly dashboards; enrollment, claims, utilization, high‑cost claimants, trend, risk scoring, cohorts (conditions/DM). 

      • Self‑Service Analytics – drill‑down dashboard usability, export, data dictionary; scheduled distribution. 

      • Data Integration & Interoperability – integration with payroll/HRIS (UKG), PBM, WellWorks, Omada, Optum (HSA and FSA/COBRA), stop‑loss (TBD). 

      • Data Governance & Ownership – timeliness (e.g., ≤10 business days), quality checks, PHI controls, data residency/segmentation, data ownership language. 

    • Compliance & Legal (10 pts)
      • Regulatory Coverage – HIPAA/HITECH, MHPAEA, ACA reporting support (as applicable to ASO), NSA (IDR, CAA transparency files), COBRA handoffs. 

      • Public Sector Requirements – open records support, subpoena response, records retention schedules. 

      • Privacy/Security Program – SOC 2 Type II/HITRUST recency & scope; incident response, breach notification SLAs. 

    • Implementation & Account Management (10 pts)
      • Implementation Plan & Timeline – ability to meet OE timeframes, project governance; testing (eligibility, claims feeds to 3rd parties, accumulators); blackout risk mitigation. 

      • Change Management & Communications – member and department leader comms, union stakeholder engagement, onsite presence initial year and ongoing years. 

      • Account Team & Governance – named roles, executive escalation, meeting frequency – onsite and virtual cadence. 

    • Care Management, Clinical & Programs (7 pts)
      • Utilization Management & Clinical Case Management – prior auth timeliness, concurrent review, complex case management, social determinants coordination. 

      • Disease & Population Health – diabetes, cardiac, maternity/pre-natal, MSK, oncology; evidence‑based protocols. 

      • Behavioral Health Integration – parity operations, access, crisis lines, collaborative care. 

    • Financial Proposal & Transparency (6 pts)
      • Administrative Fees & Guarantees – PEPM/PEPY fees, run‑out, renewal rate caps, fee at‑risk for performance. 

      • Cost of Care Controls – fraud/waste/abuse (SIU), OON cost controls, site‑of‑care optimization. 

      • Billing Transparency – clear pass‑through vs. spread, disclosure of all revenue streams. 

    • References & Performance History (3 pts)

      Public Sector References – outcomes, service level history, (preferably unions/civil service environments). 

    • Value‑Added Services (2 pts)

      Innovations & Enhancements – virtual care, second opinions, price‑transparency tools, employee education, local economic participation, and DEI commitments. 

    Submission Requirements

    • Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
    • Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA) (required)
      Montgomery County is requiring an NDA to be completed for both the Medical / TPA and Pharmacy Benefit Manager proposals. This NDA is a Montgomery County document and must be accepted "as is." Proposers cannot provide edits to the NDA as it is considered non-negotiable. 
      The County requires a claims re-pricing and network disruption analysis using your proposed network and contracted rates.
       
      1. Complete and send the NDA to hreed@mcgohanbrabender.com.
      2. Immediately send NDA to McGohan Brabender for the release of the claims file and/or Ringmaster invitation.  Also, submit a copy of the NDA form within OpenGov with your proposal.
      Please address the following:
      1. Claims File Distribution:
        • A claims file containing 12 months of claims history will be provided to qualified proposers by the County’s broker, McGohan Brabender, after receipt of the NDA. See instructions below.
        • The claims file will be sent via secure electronic transfer after the NDA is received.
      2. Re-Pricing Requirements:
        • Re-price all claims using your proposed network discounts and contracted rates.
        • If additional savings opportunities are identified during re-pricing (e.g., steerage programs, tiered networks), include these savings and provide explanatory notes in the submission.
      3. Network Disruption Analysis:
        • Complete and submit a Network Disruption Analysis for your proposed network.
        • Include:
          • Percentage of current providers retained in-network.
          • Geographic access standards (time/distance).
          • Impact on high-utilization providers and facilities.
          • Mitigation strategies for out-of-network disruption.
      4. Submission Format:
        • Provide results in a clear, tabular format (Excel preferred) with summary and detailed views.
        • Include methodology and assumptions used in the analysis.
    • Proposer Information
    • Date of Establishment (required)

      When was organization established?

      Style

      01/01/1991

    • Years of Experience (required)

      For how many years has the Proposer engaged in services under its present business name?

    • Other Business Names (required)

      Has this business operated under a different name?

    • DBA Names (required)

      Please list all former names and the dates during which they were used.

    • Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) (required)

      Please provide Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN)

    • Unique Entity Identifier Number (required)

      Please provide Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Number. If none, please provide reason. 

    • Workers Compensation Account Number (required)

      Please provide Workers Compensation Account Number. If none, please provide a reason.

    • Unemployment Insurance Account Number (required)

      Please provide Unemployment Insurance Account Number. If none, please provide reason. 

    • Registered in Ohio (required)

      Are you registered to do business in the state of Ohio?

      https://businesssearch.ohiosos.gov/

    • Foreign Entity (required)

      As stated within the previous question, the Proposer is required to furnish a Certificate of Good Standing from the Ohio Secretary of State showing the right of the proposer to do business in the State. Or, in the case that the proposer is an individual or partnership, the proposer shall certify it has filed, with the Ohio Secretary of State, a Power of Attorney designating the Ohio Secretary of State as the proposer agent for the purpose of accepting service of summons in any lawful legal action.

      Please upload the applicable proof based on your current status at the time of this submittal.

    • Subcontractors (required)

      Will you be using Subcontractors to carry out the work covered under this project.

    • Subcontractor Entities (required)

      Please list the full business name of all anticipated subcontractors, including dba names.

    • EEO (required)

      Do Federal, State, or local Affirmative Action or Equal Employment Opportunity rules bind the Proposer?

    • EEO Reports (required)

      If yes, has the Proposer filed all required EEO reports to the necessary agencies?

    • Bankruptcy (required)

      Has Proposer ever filed for reorganization under the bankruptcy laws of Ohio or any other state?

    • Civil Judgment (required)

      Have you, or any of your principals, within a three-year period preceding award of this agreement been convicted of or been subject to a civil judgment rendered for commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, State or Local) transaction or contract under a public transaction; violation of Federal or State antitrust statutes or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, or receiving stolen property?

    • Additional Information (required)

      Please provide detailed information about the existence of such instances in your organization.

    • Indictment or Criminal Charges (required)

      Are you, or any of your principals, presently indicted for or otherwise criminally charged by a governmental entity (Federal, State, or Local) within commission of any of the offenses enumerated in the previous question?

    • Additional Information (required)

      Please provide detailed information about the existence of such instances in your organization.

    • Transactions Terminated for Cause or Default (required)

      Are you, or any of your principals, within the three-year period preceding this proposal date had one or more public transactions (Federal, State, or Local) terminated for cause or default?

    • Eligibility of Transactions with Federal Agencies and Departments (required)

      Are you, or any of your principals, presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from covered transactions by any Federal department or agency?

    • Additional Information (required)

      Please provide detailed information about the existence of such instances in your organization.

    • Form 3: Disclosure Policy (required)

      Please download the below documents, complete, and upload.

    • Form 4: Tax Delinquent. Must be notarized! (required)

      Please download the below documents, complete, and upload. Please note, this form must be notarized

    • Proposal Forms & Supplemental Questionaire for Medical TPA
    • Is your company proposing on the Medical TPA RFP? (required)

      If you are proposing on the Medical TPA please respond to the following questions. Is your company proposing on the Medical TPA RFP? 

    • Fee Proposal (required)

      All fees or charges related to services must be identified in the fee proposal. List must include but not limited to the following:

      • Medical Claims 
      • Pharmacy Claims 
      • Medical Client Advisor Commission
      • Network Access Fee 
      • Stop Loss Interface Fee
      • External Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) Interface Fee 
      • Nurse Management 
      • Utilization Management 
      • Disease Management / Chronic Care Condition 
      • Telemedicine Fee 
      • Medical and Pharmacy Integration
      • Claim Fiduciary 
      • Pre-Authorization of Check Release 
      • Ad HOC Reports and Analysis 
      • Custodial Banking 
      • ID Card Mailing Charge 
      • Wellness Credit or Fund (Annual) 
      • Subrogation 
      • Custom Data Files/Reporting Fee 
      • Bundled Pricing for Medical and Pharmacy

      All implementation fees or charges must be included in the administration fees quoted. Monthly premium rates should be provided on a composite basis. Brokerage commission should be net of commission. Proposals should assume duplication of the current High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) benefit structure. Montgomery County reserves the right to request additional information and clarification. 

      *Price: The pricing proposal shall consist of the final Fee Schedule submitted.  The proposed agreement will be for an initial three (3) year term.  If mutually agreeable, the agreement may be extended for two (2) additional one (1) year terms.  Please provide pricing for all 5 years. In no case will the combined term (including renewal) exceed five (5) years.   

      *All fees are assumed guaranteed unless otherwise noted

    • Table of Organization / Personnel (required)

      Please provide a table of organization for your company to include the team that would be working with Montgomery County. 

    • Tell Us About Your Organization (required)

      Describe your company’s overall experience and qualifications, especially in the public sector, and include the following information: 

      • Indicate how long your organization has administered health plans and how many clients you currently service in the public sector, with the total number of lives covered noted. 

      • Indicate whether your organization has been known by any other names within the last ten years. 

      • Is your organization anticipating any expansion or reorganization within the next year?  

        • If yes, please explain. 

      • List any characteristics of your organization that you feel distinguishes you from other health plan administrators. 

      Note: Additional information may be requested from your firm if it’s selected as a finalist. 

    • Staff Qualifications (required)

      Please provide the names and related experience for key personnel who would be assigned to manage and/or work directly with this account, in the roles/areas listed below. Please include education, professional work experience. 

      • Account Management Team 

      • Claims Processing 

      • Customer Service 

      • Data Management Systems and/or Information Technology 

      • Experience with working with Public Sector accounts, including the number of total years
    • Claims Administration System (required)

      Please describe the software system used for claims adjudication and benefit/eligibility administration. Please indicate what functions, if any, are not automated and whether your programming/computer support is outsourced or managed internally. Your response should address the following:

      • System Specifications 
      • Electronic Claim Submission Capabilities 
      • Identification and Recovery of Duplicate Payments 
      • Identification of Unbundled Claims
      • Coordination of Benefits 
      • Indemnification and Recovery of Third-Party Liability Claims 
      • Verifying Benefit Eligibility for Dependent Children over age 26 
      • Secure Website for 24-Hour Access to Claims Status Information 
      • Transmit and Receive Electronic Eligibility Data 
      • Indicate whether your firm offers Case Management and Utilization Review Services
    • Claims Processing Facility (required)

      Please indicate the physical location(s) of the claims processing facility that would handle/process claims for this group, and the customer service office that would service this account. 

    • Statistics For Claims Processing (required)

      For the claims processing facility designated in question 3.1.6, please provide the following information: 

      • What is your average turnaround time for processing claims? 
      • How many medical plan groups were handled during 2025? 
      • How many medical plan groups were public entities? 
      • Approximately how many claims are processed annually? 
      • What was the error ratio during 2025 (financial and procedural)? 
    • Customer Service Staff (required)

      Briefly discuss your proposed approach to providing customer service to this group and include the following information: 

      • Indicate your response time for customer service inquiries. 
      • Do you anticipate hiring additional personnel to provide customer service for us? 
      • Are you willing to assign dedicated customer service staff to this account? 
      • Locations of customer service centers. 
    • Periodic/ADHOC Reports (required)

      Provide samples of regular claim reports (detailed claims experience, eligibility, statistical and financial reports) lag reports, stop-loss reinsurance reports, large claim/case management reports, etc., provided to your clients on a regular basis, and indicate the frequency they are issued. Also, please provide examples of ad hoc reports that can be produced and indicate in what format these reports can be produced (i.e. Excel, PDF, etc.)

      If a custom report is requested, is that possible? Are there any associated costs with custom reports? 

    • Samples of Explanation of Benefits and Form Letters (required)
      Provide representative samples of the following:
      1. Explanation of Benefits (EOB):
        • Standard EOB issued to plan participants for processed claims.
        • Include examples showing clarity of benefit details, member responsibility, and compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., HIPAA, NSA transparency).
      2. Form Letters:
        • Common correspondence sent to members, providers, or other authorized parties, such as:
          • Claim denial or adjustment notices
          • Prior authorization approvals/denials
          • Coordination of benefits requests
          • Appeal and grievance acknowledgment letters
          • General plan communications
      For each sample, indicate:
      • Format: (e.g., paper, electronic, portal-based)
      • Language Options: Confirm availability of multiple language versions and interpreter services for members with limited English proficiency.
      • Customization: Ability to tailor letters for plan-specific requirements and branding.
    • Internal Auditing and Quality Control (required)
      Describe your organization’s internal auditing procedures and quality control measures designed to ensure financial and procedural accuracy in health plan claims administration. Your response should include:
      1. Audit Processes:
        • Frequency and scope of internal audits (e.g., daily, monthly, quarterly).
        • Types of audits performed (claims accuracy, eligibility verification, compliance checks).
        • Methodology for identifying and correcting errors.
      2. Quality Control Measures:
        • Controls in place to prevent duplicate payments, incorrect benefit application, and fraud/waste/abuse.
        • Use of automated systems and manual reviews for accuracy.
        • Key performance indicators (KPIs) tracked for claims processing quality.
      3. Compliance and PHI Protection:
        • Procedures to ensure compliance with HIPAA and other applicable privacy regulations.
        • Safeguards for Protected Health Information (PHI) during audits and quality control activities, including encryption, access controls, and secure transmission.
        • Breach notification protocols and incident response plans.
      4. Reporting and Transparency:
        • How audit results are documented and shared with clients.
        • Corrective action processes for identified issues.
        • Availability of audit summaries or dashboards for client review.
    • Disaster Recovery Program (required)

      Describe your disaster recovery program should the health plan records/data maintained in your system be adversely affected by earthquake, fire, flood, or another catastrophic event.

    • HIPPA Privacy and Security Compliance (required)

      Describe any automated systems, and policies/procedures in place to ensure compliance with HIPAA Privacy and Security rules.

    • Client References - Current Clients (required)

      Please provide three list the accounts that you currently provide third party services, and include the following information for each:

      • Client Name

      • Contact Person

      • Address

      • Telephone Number

      • Total Number of Lives Covered for the public entity within the past 3 years. 

    • Client References - Past Clients (required)

      List two accounts that you have been terminated by the client within the last three years, and include the following information for each: 

      • Client Name

      • Contact Person

      • Address

      • Telephone Number

      • Reason for Termination

      • Total Number of Lives Covered for the public entity within the past 3 years. 

    • Preferred Provider Network Associations (required)
      The County’s current Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) network is Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield.
      • Please indicate whether your organization contracts with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield for network access.
      • Provide a complete list of all PPO networks your organization utilizes or has access to in Ohio and nationally.
      • For each network, include:
        • Geographic coverage (statewide, regional, national)
        • Percentage of providers contracted in Ohio
        • Any tiered or narrow network options available
        • Ability to integrate with the County’s existing plan design
    • Carrier Integrations (required)
      Please provide the following information regarding your integration capabilities:
      1. Medical Carriers and TPAs (if applicable):
        List all medical carriers or third-party administrators with whom your organization currently integrates for eligibility, claims, and reporting.
      2. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) (if applicable):
        List all PBMs you currently integrate with for pharmacy claims, formulary management, and reporting.
      3. For each integration, specify:
        • Type of integration (e.g., real-time API, batch file exchange, etc).
        • Frequency of data exchange.
        • Ability to support consolidated medical and pharmacy reporting.
        • Any additional fees associated with these integrations.
      4. Confirm your ability to establish new integrations if required by the County and provide estimated timelines for implementation.
    • Transition Plan (required)
      Describe your proposed transition plan for assuming administration of Montgomery County’s health plan. Your response should include:
      1. Timeline and Key Milestones:
        • Provide a detailed implementation schedule, including major phases such as data migration, system setup, testing, and go-live.
        • Include contingency planning for potential delays.
      2. Communication Resources:
        • Outline communication strategies and resources available to support Montgomery County during open enrollment starting in October.
        • Include examples of member education materials, FAQs, and multilingual communication options.
      3. Tools and Resources:
        • Describe available tools for enrollment and ongoing member engagement (e.g., online portals, mobile apps, virtual support).
        • Confirm availability of onsite presence for employee meetings, union sessions, and open enrollment events.
        • Detail your change management approach, including training for HR staff and department leaders.
      4. Data and System Integration:
        • Explain how historical data (claims, eligibility, accumulators) will be securely migrated from the current administrator.
        • Include compliance measures for HIPAA and PHI protection during transition.
      5. Describe your stabilization period, dedicated account team, and escalation process for resolving issues after implementation.
    • Additional Services (required)

      Please list any additional or value-added services your organization offers beyond standard medical claims administration. Examples include, but are not limited to:

      • Disease Management Programs
      • Chronic Condition Care (e.g., diabetes, cardiac, respiratory)
      • Virtual Care / Telemedicine Services
      • Prenatal and Maternity Care Programs
      • Musculoskeletal (MSK) Care Management (orthopedic and physical therapy programs)
      • Cancer Concierge or Oncology Care Navigation
      • Diabetes Management and Education
      • Behavioral Health Integration (mental health and substance use support)
      • Wellness and Preventive Health Programs
      • Second Opinion Services
      • Population Health Analytics and Predictive Modeling

      For each service, please indicate:

      • Availability (included or optional) 
      • How are eligible members identified (claims, pharmacy, lab values)? 
      • Who are eligible members and what determines their eligibility (ex: a diabetic program for members age 18 and older, based on claim history of Type2 diagnosis)
      • Integration with medical and pharmacy benefits
      • Member outreach and enrollment methods, engagement channels used, and average time to first contact after identification
      • Percentage of engagement among eligible members
      • Member engagement tools (apps, portals, coaching)
      • Is any technology incorporated into care plans (ex: glucose test strips or CGMs for a diabetic program)
      • Reporting options and frequency, and availability to share with County population health platforms
      • Any associated fees
    • On Site Presence (required)
      Please describe your procedures and capabilities for providing on-site support during key events, including Open Enrollment and annual Benefit Fair, as well as other scheduled times throughout the year. Your response should include:
      1. Request Process:
        • How should the County request on-site visits?
        • Required lead time for scheduling.
        • Point of contact for coordination.
      2. Availability and Limitations:
        • Number of on-site visits included in your standard administrative fee.
        • Any limitations on duration, location, or staffing.
        • Availability for union meetings, department sessions, and employee education events.
      3. Costs:
        • Detail any additional costs for on-site presence beyond included visits.
        • Specify whether travel, lodging, or per diem expenses apply.
      4. Resources Provided:
        • Types of staff available for on-site support (e.g., account managers, benefits educators, clinical nurses).
        • Multilingual support or interpreter services for employees with limited English proficiency.
        • Printed materials, enrollment guides, and technology (e.g., laptops, kiosks) for on-site assistance.
      5. Change Management Support:
        • Describe how on-site presence will be used to assist with change management, employee education, and engagement during transition and open enrollment.
    • Regular Meetings (required)
      Montgomery County and its broker, McGohan Brabender, require ongoing collaboration with the selected administrator. Please confirm your ability to support the following:
      1. Meeting Schedule:
        • Standard virtual meetings at agreed-upon intervals (weekly to monthly) to review plan performance, address issues, and discuss enhancements.
        • One in-person meeting on-site annually, to review plan utilization.
      2. Meeting Content:
        • Review of claims experience, utilization trends, performance guarantees, and service metrics.
        • Discussion of compliance updates, member issues, and cost-containment initiatives.
      3. Resources and Participation:
        • Identify roles that will attend (e.g., account manager, clinical lead, reporting analyst).
        • Confirm ability to provide subject matter experts as needed for specialized topics.
      4. Costs and Limitations:
        • Indicate whether these meetings are included in administrative fees or if additional charges apply for on-site visits.
        • Specify any limitations on frequency or duration.
    • Full Proposal (required)

      Please submit your full proposal documents, including all requested materials. You do not have to duplicate information already submitted.

    • Additional Information (if needed)

      For any additional information requested or required by any of your previously provided answers please upload that additional documentation here.

    • Proposal Forms & Supplemental Questionaire for Pharmacy Benefit Manager
    • Is your company proposing on the Pharmacy Benefit Manager section of this RFP? (required)

      If you are proposing on the Pharmacy Benefit Manager section of this RFP please respond to the following questions. 

    • Table of Organization / Personnel (required)

      Please provide a table of organization for your company to include the team that would be working with Montgomery County. 

    • Tell Us About Your Organization (required)

      Describe your company’s overall experience and qualifications, especially in the public sector, and include the following information: 

      • Indicate how long your organization has administered Pharmacy Benefit Manager Services and how many clients you currently service in the public sector, with the total number of lives covered noted. 

      • Indicate whether your organization has been known by any other names within the last ten years. 

      • Is your organization anticipating any expansion or reorganization within the next year?  

        • If yes, please explain. 

      • List any characteristics of your organization that you feel distinguishes you from other Pharmacy Benefit Manager Services administrators. 

      Note: Additional information may be requested from your firm if it’s selected as a finalist. 

    • Staff Qualifications (required)

      Please provide the names and related experience for key personnel who would be assigned to manage and/or work directly with this account, in the roles/areas listed below. Please include education, professional work experience. 

      • Account Management Team 

      • Claims Processing 

      • Customer Service 

      • Data Management Systems and/or Information Technology 

      • Experience with working with Public Sector accounts, including the number of total years
    • Client References - Current Clients (required)

      Please provide three list the accounts that you currently provide third party services, and include the following information for each:

      • Client Name

      • Contact Person

      • Address

      • Telephone Number

      • Total Number of Lives Covered for the public entity within the past 3 years. 

    • Client References - Past Clients (required)

      List two accounts that you have been terminated by the client within the last three years, and include the following information for each: 

      • Client Name

      • Contact Person

      • Address

      • Telephone Number

      • Reason for Termination

      • Total Number of Lives Covered for the public entity within the past 3 years. 

    • Discount Definitions (required)
      • MAC generics included in the generic guarantee. 
      • Non-MAC generics included in the generic guarantee.
      • Single-source generics included in the generic guarantee.
      • Multi-source generics included in the generic guarantee.
      • Generics in the FDA-granted exclusivity period included in the generic guarantee.
      • Generics launched at risk included in the generic guarantee.
      • Generics prescribed in conjunction with a specialty medication included in the generic guarantee.
      • Generics with limited supply included in the generic guarantee.
      • Claims filled in all states.
      • Brand medications are those with a Medi-Span name type code and multi-source combination code of MT, NT, OT.
      • Limited distribution medications are those defined as such on the bidders provided LDD List with this response.
      • Limited distribution discounts apply for drugs with and without access
    • Rebate Definitions (required)
      • Formulary rebates included in the pass-through rebate definition. 
      • Incentive rebates included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • Data fees included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • Inflation protection rebates included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • Specialty management fees included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • Market share rebates included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • Promotional grants included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • Compliance funding included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • Any and all funding sources, up to and including those of any GPO with common ownership included in the pass-through rebate definition.
      • New-to-market drugs, not listed on the LDD list and added during the contract year, must be available from 3 or fewer pharmacies. 
      • For rebates, all drugs on the bidder's specialty drug list qualify for specialty rebate (if not, please list drug classes considered non-specialty.)
      • 340B claims are defined as only those having a type 20 NCPDP submission clarification code or a pharmacy class code of 39.
      • Provided rebate guarantees will apply regardless of plan design.
    • Minimum Bid Requirements (required)
      • Proposer confirms their willingness to partner with 3rd party vendors such as Mark Cuban Cost Plus, Amazon Pharmacy, and others. 
      • Client requires full audit rights across all contractual pricing including access to verify all monies (Rebates, MAF, Inflations cap payments) are passed through to the client. This means an onsite or virtual audit of at least 75% of Rebate value and access to pharmaceutical contracts.
      • Proposer agrees to pass through 100% of negotiated discounts, fees, and payments including click fees, access fees and market share payments, across
        all pharmacies and no margin or spread is retained.
      • Proposer agrees that the value of clinical savings INCLUDING copay assistance from pharmaceutical manufacturers, foundational support, or similar resources cannot be used as part of any pricing guarantee (including Rebates). 
      • Proposer agrees that any Rebates available for non-prescriptions such as OTC products including diabetic test strips, insulin, and insulin needles will be included in the calculation of Rebate guarantees and passed through to Client. 
      • Proposer agrees that any competitive fund or allowance offered annually will roll over to the next year should leftover amounts be available. 
      • Proposer agrees that in no instance will unpaid member copays be charged to the Client. 
      • Proposer agrees to accept fiduciary responsibility for claims, appeals, and grievances associated with the pharmacy benefit. 
      • Proposer will agree to not allow any offshore personnel to work on the Client account or membership upon request. 
      • Proposer agrees to allow the client or a third-party named by the client to execute an annual market-check. The market check threshold will be 0.5% or greater gross cost savings. 
      • Proposer agrees that should conflicting responses arise within the proposal process, the most favorable response for the Client will be memorialized in the contract. 
    • Stipulations - Guarantee and Reconciliation Logic (required)
      • Proposer agrees to allow the client or a third-party named by the client to execute a market-check. 
      • Proposer agrees to pay 100% of any shortfall. 
      • Discount guarantees are at the client level.
      • Rebate guarantees are at the client level.
      • Over-performance in one channel will not be used to offset under-performance in another channel.
      • Reconciliations do not constitute an audit.
      • Client may conduct an audit, at its own expense, each year.
      • AWP is based on Medi-span and the date of fill.
      • AWP is based on post-2009 settlement AWP.
      • U&C is defined based on the retail drug used to calculate the claim amount on the dispense date.
      • Zero balance claims included in discount guarantees based on ingredient cost before member cost share. 
      • Extended day supply and mail order guarantees apply at greater than 83 days supply.
      • Reconciliation will occur within 180 days after the close of a year.
      • Manufacturer coupons are excluded from the discount guarantee calculation.
      • Proposer Agrees Formulary List will not have negative changes more than 2 times per year with 90 days advance notice. 
      • Specialty list will not change during the contract year with the exception of the addition of new to market drugs.
      • For reconciliation purposes, specialty drugs are defined in the current specialty drug list each contract year. The PBM may provide an updated list prior to the new year.
      • All responses in this RFP are binding and supersede the pricing supplement and any administrative agreements.
      • Rebate guarantee reconciliation will not include any rebate credits for shifts in utilization (biosimilars, insulins, etc.).
      • Specialty discount guarantees represents an overall guarantee across all specialty drugs in the channel.
    • Stipulations - Adjudication Logic (required)
      • Client payment will be determined as (ingredient cost + dispensing fee + sales tax) less member copayment. 
      • Members will pay the lesser of the discounted ingredient cost, the usual & customary rate, or the member cost share.
      • U&C is defined as the retail drug used to calculate the claim amount on the date the drug was dispensed.
      • Extended day supply and mail order copays apply at greater than 83 days supply.
      • Specialty medications will not be dispensed for more than a 30 days supply unless a quantity of 1 applies.
      • Specialty medications that do not clinically require a days supply greater than 30 will receive a specialty rebate guarantee based on a per 30 day supply. 
    • Stipulations - Data Sharing (required)
      • Proposer agrees to share its limited distribution drug list at an NDC level for request and reconciliation purposes. 
      • Proposer agrees to share its specialty drug list at an NDC level for request and reconciliation purposes. 
      • Proposer agrees to share a detailed formulary list at an NDC level. 
      • Proposer confirms it has active clients with accumulator connectivity with the current and alternative carriers/TPAs listed in the cover sheet. 
      • Proposer confirms it has active clients with eligibility connectivity with the current and alternative carriers/TPAs listed in the cover sheet. 
    • Stipulations - Mail Order Pharmacy (required)
      • MAC pricing will be in place at mail order. 
      • Mail MAC is the same or more favorable than the retail MAC list.
      • No minimum price floors apply for mail order discounts to apply.
    • Termination Clause (required)
      • Client may terminate without cause provided they give 60 days advance notice. 
      • No early termination penalties will apply.
      • Client will retain earned, but unpaid, rebates up to the termination date, pursuant to the contract.
      • Proposer agrees to provide an open refill transfer file upon request, without charge, to facilitate client transition. 
      • Proposer agrees to provide an updated claim file upon request, without charge, to facilitate client transition. 
      • Proposer agrees to provide an open prior authorization file upon request, without charge, to facilitate client transition. 
    • Formulary Management (required)

      Humira is excluded from your formulary.

    • Formulary Management (required)

      What is your preferred biosimilar for Humira?

    • Formulary Management (required)

      Biosimilars for Humira are not subject to rebate credit values.

    • Formulary Management (required)

      If biosimilars for Humira are subject to a rebate credit value then they are capped at the baseline rebate guarantee amount per claim. 

    • Formulary Management (required)

      What is your book of business biosimilar adoption rate for Humira on the submitted formulary? 

    • Formulary Management (required)

      Stelara is excluded from your formulary. 

    • Formulary Management (required)

      What is your preferred biosimilar for Stelara? 

    • Formulary Management (required)

      Biosimilars for Stelara are not subject to rebate credit values.

    • Formulary Management (required)

      If biosimilars for Stelara are subject to a rebate credit value then they are capped at the baseline rebate guarantee amount per claim.

    • Formulary Management (required)

      High WAC Humalog and/or Novolog are excluded from your formulary.

    • Formulary Management (required)

       A low value drug exclusion list is available. 

    • Formulary Management (required)

      Please list any additional fees for formulary management that are not included elsewhere. 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      Proposed rates assume prior authorizations for GLP-1's.

    • Utilization Management (required)

      Proposed rates assume the use of SmartPA or ePA logic for GLP-1's. 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      Proposed rates assume an independent prior authorization for GLP-1's. 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      GLP-1 prior authorization process requires chart notes to validate diagnosis. 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      GLP-1 prior authorization process requires patients to have an A1c over a minimum of 6.5. 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      At what BMI are weight loss medications approved in your submitted proposal? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      Client is allowed to implement a cost exceeds max edit for claims greater than $1,000

    • Utilization Management (required)

      If the cost of your utilization management is included in an overall package fee, what is the fee basis? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      If the cost of your utilization management is included in an overall package fee, what is the fee amount? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      What is the basis for your prior authorization fee? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      What is the prior authorization fee amount? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      What is the basis for your step therapy fee? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      What is the step therapy fee amount? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      What is the basis for your quantity limit fee? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      What is the quantity limit fee amount? 

    • Utilization Management (required)

      Please list any additional fees for utilization management that are not included elsewhere. 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      If your fees for patient assistance are not on a percentage of savings please indicate the basis. 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      If your fees for patient assistance are not on a percentage of savings please indicate the fee amount. 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      If your fees for patient assistance are on a percentage of savings basis please indicate what percentage of the savings is taken as a fee? 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      If patient assistance program percentage of savings fees are capped, at what dollar amount are they capped? 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      Patient assistance program savings are calculated based on the AWP minus the contractually guaranteed discount percentage for the medication. 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      Patient assistance program claims will be included in reporting and claim files. 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      Please list any fees for international sourcing that are not included elsewhere. 

    • Patient Assistance Programs (required)

      International sourcing is optional for the client. 

    • Copay Assistance Programs (required)

      If your fees for copay assistance are not on a percentage of savings please indicate the basis. 

    • Copay Assistance Programs (required)

      If your fees for copay assistance are not on a percentage of savings basis please indicate the fee amount? 

    • Copay Assistance Programs (required)

      If your fees for copay assistance are on a percentage of savings basis please indicate what percentage of the savings is taken as a fee? 

    • Administrative Requirements (required)
      • Proposer agrees to prepare and submit CAA required RxDC reporting and data at no cost to the Client. 
      • Proposer agrees to communicate any legislative changes and the financial impact that will directly impact Client within 15 days of passing. 
      • Account team will respond to Client issues raised as critical within 1 business day.
      • Proposer agrees to provide any targeted member communications to Client in advance with the ability to review, edit and approve prior to distribution. 
      • Proposer agrees to record 100% of all member services calls. 
      • Proposer confirms that the entire account team will be part of implementation or transition calls. 
      • Proposer to attach a detailed account team chart including all designated contacts, roles, responsibilities, short biography, location and number of years in role. 
      • Proposer will meet with Client at minimum biweekly (calls), with quarterly and annual in-person meetings. 
      • Proposer will provide an Executive Sponsor for Client committing to access to leadership and issue resolution.
      • Proposer agrees to provide a designated implementation manager to facilitate and oversee the transition or implementation process. 
      • Proposer confirms initial ID cards are provided at no cost to the Client. 
      • Proposer agrees that it will prepare and train the member services center to take calls during open enrollment for Client. 
      • Proposer agrees to allow grandfathering of current members or utilizers impacted by a Formulary change for 90 days without a negative impact on Rebates. 
      • Proposer agrees to conduct end-to-end testing of at least 100 samples of scenarios prior to open enrollment or an effective date. 
      • Proposer will provide the actual clinical protocol associated with any utilization management program at Client's request. 
      • Proposer confirms example rebate reporting will be uploaded as supporting documents. 
      • Proposer confirms that the Client owns their pharmacy data. 
      • Proposer Client's share of rebates and manufacturer administrative fees will be paid within ninety (90) days of your receipt. 
      • Proposer agrees that if Rebates become available on Generics, Biosimilars, Vaccines, or any claim for which no Rebates are available today, those monies will be passed through to Client. 
      • Proposer agrees that it will not retain any revenue or monies from a manufacturer, regardless of how that revenue is categorized or defined, including outside of the definition of Rebates. 
      • Proposer to confirm which GPO is performing Rebate Aggregation services. Please describe the receipt or retention of any admin fees or other monies between the parties. 
      • Proposer will not retain any Rebates or monies if it leverages a Rebate Aggregator or GPO arrangement. All Rebates or monies will be passed through at 100%. 
      • Confirm you will regularly perform on-site and desk audits of participating pharmacies.
      • Proposer confirms they will provide member services usage and performance statistic reporting. 
      • Confirm you will remit to Client 100% of all monies collected for drugs dispensed to Members under the Services Agreement. If you propose to retain any portion of such amounts, please specify the amount or percentage you propose to retain.
      • Confirm your pricing proposal will apply to your broadest retail network, including all major chains, and that the network will remain intact, with no elimination of major chains, for the contract term unless Client agrees otherwise.
      • Describe member tools that are available for drug cost comparison, pharmacy locator, formulary listing, instructions for completing prior authorization/step therapy, etc.
      • Proposer agrees to pass through the greater of the minimum Rebate guarantee or 100% of Rebates. 
      • Proposer guarantees that the MAC list in place for the Client will be the broadest and most aggressive (financially favorable to Client) from a discount perspective. 
      • Proposer will provide the MAC list to Client upon Client request. 
      • Proposer confirms understanding that implementation and audit credits are expected. 
      • Proposer confirms willingness to partner with Client for custom clinical strategy approach. 
      • Proposer confirms willingness to partner with Client for custom plan design approach. 
      • Proposer will agree to allow a custom formulary per Client's request. 
      • Confirm you will promptly honor any request by Client to change any of your employees who are the primary liaisons or account managers for Client's account.
    • Administrative Requirements (required)

      Describe the biosimilar strategies currently in effect 

    • Administrative Requirements (required)

      Do you maintain more than one MAC list? If so, will more than one MAC list be used for the County' s program? Please describe how more than one MAC list is utilized. 

    • Administrative Requirements (required)

      Provide the latest Net Promoter Score and year for the PBM 

    • Administrative Requirements (required)

      How many employer clients do you service? 

    • Administrative Requirements (required)

      What is your client retention rate as a percentage? 

    • Pharmacy Supportive Document
      1. Proposer confirms they will provide supporting documentation with details of the proposed PMPM Guarantee. 
      2. Proposer is to provide a table as supporting documentation with estimated Trends for 2026, 2027, and 2028 as it relates to BOTH cost and utilization (separately) across Non-Specialty Brand, Non-Specialty Generics, Specialty Brand, Specialty Generic and Specialty Biosimilars:
      3. Proposer confirms a drug list regarding rebate credits will be uploaded as a supporting document, if applicable.
      4. Proposer will provide detailed Performance Guarantees for Client review. Proposer to include individual PGs, amount at risk, reporting frequency and confirmation that PG reflects the Client and not book of business results.
      5. Provide a copy or attachment of any/all anticipated reporting made available to this Client on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis.
      6. Proposer confirms they will provide member services usage and performance statistic reporting.
      7. Proposer will attach a copy of the member and Client satisfaction survey tools.
      8. Proposer will attach list of drug classes excluded from rebates.

       

    • Financial Requirements (required)
      • Proposer confirms they will be submitting a financial proposal under a 3-year transparent pricing model. 
      • Proposer confirms they will provide a PMPM Guarantee in their financial proposal. 
      • Proposer confirms they will provide supporting documentation with details of the proposed PMPM Guarantee. 
      • Proposer to confirm the proposed implementation credit amount. 
      • Proposer to confirm the proposed audit credit amount 
      • Proposer to confirm the proposed annual performance credit amount. 

      Note: Within the Ringmaster tool, bidders will note that the consulting fee will be $1 per Rx. Please note agreement and include this consulting fee in your pricing proposal and submission.

    • Legal (required)
      • Confirm you will respond to each proposed revised draft of the Services Agreement from Client within ten days of your receipt. 
      • Confirm you will not sub-contract any member-facing services without Client’s advance agreement, and all member-facing services will be provided from the United States.
      • Confirm you will act as a fiduciary in connection with determining initial claims for benefits and in deciding appeals.
      • Confirm you will respond to any audit report provided on behalf of Client within thirty (30) days of receiving it.
      • Confirm Client will be able to perform a pre-implementation audit to verify that benefits have been loaded correctly, and that you will provide an allowance to Client sufficient to fund the reasonable costs for such audit.
    • Procurement & Risk Requirements (required)
      • Identify any significant litigation (including any class action suits), Attorney General or other governmental inquiries, or industry group inquiries your firm has been named a party to in the past three (3) years. With respect to each, please disclose the nature of the litigation, the parties involved and the present status or resolution. Also include the jurisdiction in which the litigation was/is pending and the case number to which it was assigned by the court. 
      • Describe any material Merger/Acquisition/Divestiture activity in the last three years?
      • Do external entities have an ownership interest in your organization (including private equity firms)? If yes, describe the ownership interest and commitment for additional capital? How much capital has been provided to date?
    • Full Proposal (required)

      Please submit your full proposal documents, including all requested materials. You do not have to duplicate information already submitted. 

    • Additional Information (if needed)

      For any additional information requested or required by any of your previously provided answers please upload that additional documentation here. 

    • Finalizing Submitted Information
    • General Terms and Conditions (required)

      Proposer has read, understands, and accepts the General Terms and Conditions contained within the Bid documents?

    • Exceptions (required)

      Are there any exceptions to the details, requirements, or goals contained herein these project documents? 

    • Exceptions Justification (required)

      Please list all exceptions and the reason for such exceptions.

    • Contract Exceptions (required)

      After reading the sample contract provided in Attachment A, does proposer have any exceptions to the contract terms? 

    • Contract Exception Justification (required)

      Please list all contract exceptions and the reason for such exceptions.

    • Proposal (required)

      Proposal will remain firm for acceptance for 90 days after proposal opening unless otherwise stated?

    • Proposal Length (required)

      How long will the proposal remain valid?

    • Warranties (required)

      Does your proposal include warranties?

    • Warranty Information (required)

      Please provided detailed warranty information.

    • Delivery Charges (required)

      Prices proposed include any and all delivery/freight charges?

    • No Lobbying (required)

      The Proposer certifies they will not use contract funds to lobby.

    • Subcontractors Acknowledgement (required)

      The Proposer certifies that they will not enter into contracts with subcontractors who are debarred or suspended from such transactions to complete work related to this Request for Proposals.

    • Federal Debarred / Suspended (required)

      The Bidder certifies that they are neither debarred nor suspended under Federal and State rulings from receiving Federal funds.

    • Submittal Confirmation (required)

      Proposer hereby certifies that all information provided within this submittal is true, accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge. Submitting party or Proposer further acknowledges that they have authority and have provided proof of said authority to submit a proposal on behalf of the stated agency name committing them to the information and pricing contained within this Proposal Response.

    • Pre-Proposal Conference (required)

      Will there be a pre-proposal conference? 

    • Mandatory (required)

      Is the pre-bid conference required/mandatory?

    • Advertisement Date (required)

      Please enter the advertisement date in the following style:

      December 21, 2024. 

      Not: 12/21/2024.

    • Cooperative Purchasing Agreement (required)

      Will this RFP require the vendor to make pricing available to a Cooperative Purchasing Agreement?

    Questions & Answers

    Q (Point solutions): Good morning, Are you entertaining carved out point solutions for diabetes and/or weight management/GLP-1 management? I read that Omada is in place for diabetes and an established partner is preferred. A "weight management" program is mentioned, but it was unclear to me if you will consider a stand-alone offering. Abacus Health offers chronic condition management solutions for these populations. We do not have preferred partner integration with any carriers or PBMs. Thank you.

    A: We are not soliciting at this time for point solutions that are not included with the bidding TPA or PBM.


    Q (Census): Good afternoon, in order to evaluate access we need zips and current membership. Is this available? Or the NDA is needed to receive this data?

    A: The NDA is required to receive this data.


    Q (Subject: 5.5 Warranties): Question: Does your proposal include warranties? Please provide a definition of warranties as they apply to this medical Third Party Administrator (TPA) Request for Proposal (RFP).

    A: For this RFP, “warranties” refer to the vendor’s assurances that the services proposed, including claims administration, customer service, systems performance, compliance, reporting, and data security will meet all contractual, legal, and industry standards, and that any errors or deficiencies will be corrected at no cost to the County.


    Q (Banking/Billing): How often does the county wire for medical and RX claims? Daily? Weekly? If weekly, what day of the week is preferred?

    A: Currently invoices are received on Mondays with payment due 10 business days from invoice date. Montgomery County is not able to pay late fees.


    Q (Banking/billing): Does the county need any sort of grace period accommodations for their medical and RX claim wiring? Typically claim wire requests are answered in 1 day, so if additional days are needed to accommodate the accounting dept, please advise.

    A: Yes - we currently have 15 calendar days to wire payment. Please note the county is not permitted to pay late fees under ORC.


    Q (Wellness): Does the county plan to stay with wellness vendor Wellworks For You, or should the quoting medical carriers quote a replacement wellness program? If so, what are the main aspects of the wellness program that the county is looking for? (i.e. onsite biometric screenings, gift card incentives, etc?)

    A: Montgomery County plans to stay with Wellworks For You.


    Q (H.S.A. administration): Does the county plan to say with the same H.S.A. vendor, Optum Bank, or should the quoting medical carriers provide proposals for their affiliated banking partners?

    A: Montgomery County plans to stay with Optum Bank.


    Q (Reason for RFP): Why is the county out to bid? Any current service, network, or admin issues that the county is looking to address?

    A: Our renewals with our current carrier have been exhausted and we are required under ORC competitive bidding regulations to go to bid.


    Q (2027 Renewal pricing): Will 2027 renewal pricing be provided once available?

    A: Not applicable. Incumbent is part of RFP; Our renewals with our current carrier have been exhausted and we are required under ORC competitive bidding regulations to go to bid.


    Q (EAP offering): Should the quoting medical carriers provide an EAP quote to potentially replace Premier Health EAP?

    A: Montgomery County plans to stay with Premier Health EAP.


    Q (Diabetic program): Should the quoting medical carriers provide a diabetic support program to potentially replace the Omada Health, Inc. diabetic program?

    A: Montgomery County is open to seeing options for diabetic support programs.


    Q (Consultant commissions): We see the RX commissions should be $1 per prescription RX. What consultant commissions should be included in the medical administrative fee? Should it be net of commissions?

    A: Yes, net of commissions for medical.


    Q (Wellness fund): What amount is the county requesting for an annual wellness fund? We see the $225K specific request for RX, but what amount for medical? What has the county historically received from their carrier?

    A: Current annual Medical TPA Wellness Fund is $105,000; $225,000 RX allowance


    Q (H.S.A. employer funding): Does the county contribute to members’ H.S.A. accounts? If so, what amounts and with what frequency?

    A: Yes. Frontloaded 50% of dollar for dollar match up to $1,000. Remainder of match is paid via payroll match. Wellness incentives are deposited annually, usually in March. Employees can receive up to $1,380 and spouses can receive up to $600.


    Q (Stop loss marketing): Is stop loss being requested? If so, please advise on type of contract, requested ISL level, and requested ASL corridor.

    A: Stop Loss is not being requested at this time.


    Q (Retail pharmacy network): Are any retail pharmacies currently excluded from the pharmacy network? If so, which one(s)?

    A: No.


    Q (RX formulary): Is the current formulary open or closed?

    A: The formulary is a closed formulary.


    Q (GLP-1 RX coverage): How does the county handle Anti-obesity coverage? If it’s covered, does the category require prior authorization/clinical review?

    A: Covered with Prior Authorization


    Q (RX coupon programs): Does the county have a Specialty Manufacturer Coupon Program in place currently ( if so , what is name of program or vendor?)

    A: Yes, Specialty Cost Relief.


    Q (RX clinical programs): What RX clinical programs do they have in place currently ( such as precert/step)?

    A: Programs are listed in section 4.4 Scope of Services - Pharmacy


    Q (90 day RX ): Do they have Mandatory Mail Order or a retail 90 program?

    A: Yes, members can choose from both a 90 mandatory at Mail OR Retail 90 pharmacy for 90-day supply.


    Q (RX rebates): What is current rebate arrangement ( are they receiving rebates / or kept by carrier to offset admin fees)?

    A: We receive 100% of rebates quarterly, via check. Montgomery County is unable to accept rebates via invoice credit.


    Q (Contracting): Is Montgomery County aware of the benefits of Direct Contracting with hospitals, health systems, and providers so that medical plan options can be offered alongside a PPO?

    A: Yes.


    Q (Plan Option(s)): Have you discussed internally how Montgomery County can offer another medical plan option alongside your current Anthem offerings that is NOT a PPO?

    A: Montgomery County would be interested in seeing an HMO that could be offered opposite a PPO plan.


    Q (Competitive Funds): I’d like to better understand a statement in the RFP on page 46: “Annual competitive funds must roll over if unused”… precisely what funds are being referenced here?

    A: Montgomery County receives an annual Pharmacy Management Allowance Credit of $225,000 from the current PBM that must be used for legitimate, necessary, and commercially reasonable services directly related to administering and managing our pharmacy benefit and/or enhancing the value of our pharmacy program. County is requesting that funds like these roll-over from year to year if not used. Approved uses include plan communications, clinical programs, wellness programs, consulting fees (if pharmacy-related), IT programming, additional reporting/data feeds, vendor fees, and other pharmacy-related expenses pre-approved by the PBM.


    Q (Rx & PBM Oversight): We have found that working with independent pharmacy partners extends oversight of PBM contracts and other Rx programs, would the County be open to discussing these programs further?

    A: Yes.


    Q (Participating membership - labor contract): What percentage of the participating membership is covered by a labor contract?

    A: 40% of enrolled employees are covered by a CBA. 40% of the eligible employees are covered by a CBA.


    Q (Number of Meetings and Locations Clarification): Please provide more detail around expectations around availability for union meetings, department sessions, and employee education events. Looking for more clarity on the number of meetings and number of locations.

    A: Expectation is for vendor to participate in the 2026 Benefit Fair, 2 days 4 locations; Q1 2027 2 onsite meetings, additional virtual options; remaining years of agreement benefit fair attendance - 2 day, 4 locations


    Q (Specialty Pharmacy Services): The RFP refences having is a flexible, non-exclusive specialty pharmacy model that allows for independent management of specialty pharmacy services. Is that what is currently in place today with the incumbent or will this be a chance for 1/1/27?

    A: Currently exclusive to incumbent's specialty.


    Q (Third Party Vendors): Is the reference to working with third-party vendors only intended for “spread” PBMs or also with 100% transparent , pass-through PBM and specialty pharmacy?

    A: It would apply to all PBMs.


    Q (Direct Contracting): Is Montgomery County aware of the benefits of Direct Contracting with hospitals, health systems, and providers so that medical plan options can be offered alongside a PPO?

    A: Yes.


    Q (No subject): Have you discussed internally how Montgomery County can offer another medical plan option alongside your current Anthem offerings that is NOT a PPO?

    A: Montgomery County would be interested in seeing an HMO that could be offered opposite a PPO plan.


    Q (No subject): I’d like to better understand a statement in the RFP on page 46: “Annual competitive funds must roll over if unused”… precisely what funds are being referenced here?

    A: Montgomery County receives an annual Pharmacy Management Allowance Credit of $225,000 from the current PBM that must be used for legitimate, necessary, and commercially reasonable services directly related to administering and managing our pharmacy benefit and/or enhancing the value of our pharmacy program. County is requesting that funds like these roll-over from year to year if not used. Approved uses include plan communications, clinical programs, wellness programs, consulting fees (if pharmacy-related), IT programming, additional reporting/data feeds, vendor fees, and other pharmacy-related expenses pre-approved by the PBM.


    Q (No subject): We have found that working with independent pharmacy partners and programs extends oversight of PBM contracts and other RX programs, would you be interested in learning more about this?

    A: Yes.


    Key dates

    1. February 6, 2026Published
    2. April 1, 2026Responses Due

    AI classification tags

    Frequently asked questions

    SLED stands for State, Local, and Education. These are solicitations issued by state governments, counties, cities, school districts, utilities, and higher education institutions — as opposed to federal agencies.

    SamSearch Platform

    Stop searching. Start winning.

    AI-powered intelligence for the right opportunities, the right leads, and the right time.