Das Benefits Consulting Services

Background
The State of Ohio, through the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Benefits Consulting Services. The mission of the State Human Resources Division (SHRD) is to assist employing agencies in maximizing the value of employee benefit programs, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving workforce productivity. The Agency aims to procure innovative and cost-effective benefit programs while ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Work Details
The Contractor will provide consulting services for the procurement and administration of employee benefit programs, including but not limited to:
- Procurement assistance
- Rate setting
- Regulatory compliance
- Training
- Auditing
- Expert guidance on employee benefits.

Specific services include:
- Consulting on State Health Plan programs, Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Exempt Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Disability benefits, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and any other requested programs.
- Providing best practices and guidance on plan design and regulatory compliance.
- Conducting evaluations and benchmarking of existing program designs.
- Assisting in the development and evaluation of RFPs for various program areas.
- Performing analyses for rate setting and premium services as requested by the Agency.
- Ensuring compliance with health care regulations including COBRA, HIPAA, ACA requirements.
- Offering optional services such as HIPAA training programs and independent audits.

Period of Performance
The contract will commence upon receipt of a State-issued purchase order and will run through December 31, 2027. The State may renew the contract at its discretion for one month or by mutual agreement for up to four additional years based on satisfactory performance.

Place of Performance
The services will be performed primarily in Ohio, where approximately 50,500 state employees are located across 230 work locations.