Press Release  Massachusetts Department of Correction Issues Procurement for Health Care Services at Bridgewater State Hospital

Milford — Today, the Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) announced the initiation of a procurement process to solicit bids for comprehensive services at Bridgewater State Hospital (BSH), which houses approximately 230 individuals. This comprehensive contract will cover all services provided within BSH inclusive of comprehensive health care, forensic, programmatic, treatment and operational services for persons served at BSH, reflecting DOC’s commitment to providing high-quality care tailored to the unique needs of this population. 

The procurement process invites submissions from qualified organizations capable of delivering innovative and evidence-based services that address the complexities of care at BSH. The Request for Response (RFR), released on Dec. 18, 2024, will provide detailed facility and patient demographic information to support bidders in designing effective, patient-centered proposals. The procurement process, which began twelve months ago, will conclude with the posting of the Request for Response, Site Visits, Bid Submission by Vendors and Negotiation. The Department intends for the contract to commence on July 1, 2025.  

“Providing compassionate, quality care to individuals in state custody is central to our rehabilitative mission,” said DOC Commissioner Shawn Jenkins. “Bridgewater State Hospital serves a population with unique needs, and this procurement represents an important step in continuing quality services, while improving the experience and clinical outcomes for our residents. We look forward to engaging with providers whose expertise and innovation align with our vision for service excellence.”

The selected health care provider will be responsible for delivering a full spectrum of services, including medical and behavioral health care, substance use assessment and treatment, and specialized care tailored to the BSH population. Emphasis will be placed on the integration of trauma-informed care, staff recruitment and retention strategies, and the use of technology to enhance service delivery. 

DOC’s current partnership with Wellpath Recovery Solutions is set to conclude in June 2025. Through the current procurement, the DOC seeks to build on its transformative momentum in clinical care and all services for individuals at BSH while aligning with best practices in forensic psychiatric inpatient setting delivery.

In May 2024, the DOC awarded a five-year, $770 million contract to VitalCore Health Strategies to deliver comprehensive health care services across 11 state correctional facilities. VitalCore, a national leader in correctional health care, was selected for its innovative approach and commitment to delivering patient-centered care using evidence-based and trauma-informed practices. The procurement process for BSH builds on the same principles used in this earlier award and emphasizes quality care, improved wellbeing of all persons served, accountability, and value for Massachusetts taxpayers.

In addition, as of July 1, 2024, Wellpath Recovery Solutions was awarded a facility-specific contract for the delivery of all services at the Massachusetts Alcohol and Substance Abuse Center (MASAC) in Plymouth. The contract term is five years.

About the Massachusetts Department of Correction 
The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) ensures public safety by managing the custody, care, and rehabilitation of approximately 6,000 individuals across 13 state facilities. Committed to fostering accountability, personal growth, and successful reentry, the DOC emphasizes evidence-based programming, trauma-informed care, and educational and vocational training to reduce recidivism. Through partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders, the DOC delivers innovative services tailored to the diverse needs of incarcerated individuals while advancing equity, inclusion, and long-term public safety.

The DOC prioritizes evidence-based treatment, programming, trauma-informed care, as well as educational and vocational training to reduce recidivism and promote long-term public safety. By fostering partnerships with community organizations, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders, the DOC delivers innovative services that address the diverse needs of individuals. The Department is also committed to advancing equity and inclusion within the correctional system and building a foundation for justice-involved individuals to achieve successful reintegration into society.

For more information, visit here. 

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