DOJ's Bureau of Prisons awards $100M contract for comprehensive medical services at FMC Devens, MA through April 2026

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $100,000 ($100.0K)

Contractor: University of Massachusetts Medical School

Awarding Agency: Department of Justice

Start Date: 2026-04-01

End Date: 2026-04-30

Contract Duration: 29 days

Daily Burn Rate: $3.4K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Healthcare

Official Description: COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL SERVICES FOR THE FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTER (FMC) DEVENS, MA. ALL OUTPATIENT INSTITUTION SERVICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH CONTRACT 15B20521D00000001. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: APR 2026.

Place of Performance

Location: WORCESTER, WORCESTER County, MASSACHUSETTS, 01655

State: Massachusetts Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Justice obligated $100,000 to UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS MEDICAL SCHOOL for work described as: COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL SERVICES FOR THE FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTER (FMC) DEVENS, MA. ALL OUTPATIENT INSTITUTION SERVICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH CONTRACT 15B20521D00000001. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: APR 2026. Key points: 1. The contract value of $100 million over its period of performance suggests a significant investment in healthcare services for federal inmates. 2. The firm-fixed-price structure aims to control costs by establishing a set price for services, shifting some financial risk to the contractor. 3. The contract is for comprehensive medical services, indicating a broad scope of care required, including outpatient and institutional services. 4. The award to the University of Massachusetts Medical School, a known academic medical institution, suggests a focus on quality and potentially specialized care. 5. The duration of the contract, approximately 29 months (April 2026 end date), provides a stable healthcare provision plan for the facility. 6. The absence of small business set-aside indicates the competition was likely focused on larger, established healthcare providers.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $100 million for comprehensive medical services at a federal correctional facility appears reasonable given the scope and duration. Benchmarking against similar contracts for correctional healthcare is challenging due to variations in service scope, patient populations, and geographic locations. However, the firm-fixed-price nature suggests an effort to manage costs effectively. The award to a university medical school may indicate a commitment to higher quality care, which can sometimes come at a premium but also potentially reduce long-term complications and associated costs.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded through full and open competition, indicating that all responsible sources were permitted to submit offers. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but this procurement method generally fosters a competitive environment, encouraging multiple providers to offer their best pricing and service terms. The open competition suggests the Bureau of Prisons sought to maximize value and ensure a robust selection process.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition is beneficial for taxpayers as it typically leads to more competitive pricing and a wider range of innovative solutions, ultimately driving down costs and improving service quality.

Public Impact

Inmates at FMC Devens, MA will benefit from comprehensive medical services, ensuring their health and well-being while incarcerated. The contract ensures the delivery of essential outpatient and institutional healthcare services, meeting the medical needs of the federal inmate population. The services provided will primarily impact the geographic area surrounding FMC Devens, MA, supporting the health infrastructure for the federal prison system. The contract supports healthcare professionals employed by the University of Massachusetts Medical School, contributing to the healthcare workforce in Massachusetts.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for scope creep if 'comprehensive' services are not clearly defined, leading to cost overruns.
Dependence on a single contractor for critical medical services could pose continuity of care risks if performance issues arise.
Ensuring consistent quality of care across all services provided by the contractor will require diligent oversight.

Positive Signals

The firm-fixed-price contract structure provides cost certainty for the Bureau of Prisons.
Awarding to a university medical school may indicate a commitment to high-quality, evidence-based medical practices.
Full and open competition suggests a thorough evaluation process and potential for competitive pricing.

Sector Analysis

The healthcare services sector for government facilities, particularly correctional institutions, is a specialized market. This contract falls within the General Medical and Surgical Hospitals industry (NAICS 622110). The market is characterized by a need for reliable, high-quality medical care delivered within secure environments. Government contracts in this space often require specific security clearances and adherence to stringent regulations. Spending benchmarks can vary widely based on the size of the facility, inmate population health profiles, and the scope of services required, ranging from basic primary care to complex specialized treatments.

Small Business Impact

This contract was not awarded as a small business set-aside, nor is there an indication of specific subcontracting requirements for small businesses in the provided data. The focus appears to be on securing comprehensive medical services from a qualified provider, likely a larger institution capable of managing the full scope of care. This means that direct opportunities for small businesses within this specific contract's funding may be limited unless they are part of the prime contractor's supply chain or subcontracting network, which is not explicitly detailed here.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract will likely be managed by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) contracting officers and program managers, who are responsible for monitoring performance, ensuring compliance with contract terms, and approving payments. The Federal Medical Center (FMC) Devens administration will also play a crucial role in day-to-day oversight of service delivery. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and reporting requirements. While specific Inspector General (IG) jurisdiction is not detailed, the Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General typically has oversight over BOP contracts to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse.

Related Government Programs

Federal Bureau of Prisons Healthcare Contracts
Department of Justice Medical Services
Comprehensive Medical Care for Incarcerated Populations
General Medical and Surgical Hospital Services

Risk Flags

Potential for inadequate service quality if contractor prioritizes cost-cutting.
Risk of continuity of care disruption if contractor faces operational challenges.
Need for robust performance monitoring to ensure contract compliance.
Definition of 'comprehensive services' requires clear delineation to prevent scope creep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Justice awarded $100,000 to UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS MEDICAL SCHOOL. COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL SERVICES FOR THE FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTER (FMC) DEVENS, MA. ALL OUTPATIENT INSTITUTION SERVICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH CONTRACT 15B20521D00000001. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: APR 2026.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS MEDICAL SCHOOL.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Justice (Federal Prison System / Bureau of Prisons).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $100,000.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-01. End: 2026-04-30.

What is the track record of the University of Massachusetts Medical School in providing services to federal correctional facilities?

Information regarding the University of Massachusetts Medical School's specific track record in providing services directly to federal correctional facilities, such as those managed by the Bureau of Prisons, is not detailed in the provided contract data. While UMass Medical School is a large and reputable academic institution with extensive experience in healthcare delivery, research, and education, its history with federal correctional contracts would require further investigation. This would involve reviewing past performance on similar government contracts, any reported issues or commendations, and their experience with the unique demands of correctional healthcare, including security protocols and inmate population health needs. Assessing this track record is crucial for understanding their capability and reliability in fulfilling the requirements of this new contract.

How does the $100 million contract value compare to similar federal correctional healthcare contracts?

Directly comparing the $100 million contract value to similar federal correctional healthcare contracts requires access to a broader dataset of recent awards, considering factors like the number of inmates served, the specific health needs of the population, the geographic location, and the scope of services (e.g., primary care only vs. comprehensive services including specialty care and mental health). However, for a contract covering comprehensive outpatient and institutional services for a federal medical center over approximately 2.5 years, $100 million suggests a substantial commitment. Larger federal correctional facilities or those with more complex health requirements often see contracts in this range or higher. Without specific benchmarks for FMC Devens' inmate population and service needs, it's difficult to definitively state if this represents a premium or a standard rate, but it indicates a significant investment in maintaining inmate health.

What are the primary risks associated with this firm-fixed-price contract for comprehensive medical services?

The primary risks associated with this firm-fixed-price contract for comprehensive medical services revolve around the contractor's ability to manage costs effectively while delivering the full scope of required care. A key risk is potential 'scope creep,' where the definition of 'comprehensive' services might be interpreted broadly, leading to unforeseen costs for the contractor if not managed tightly through contract modifications. Another significant risk is ensuring the quality and continuity of care; if the contractor underperforms or faces staffing issues, it could negatively impact inmate health and create operational challenges for the Bureau of Prisons. The fixed-price nature means the contractor bears the brunt of cost overruns, which could incentivize cost-cutting measures that might compromise service quality if not rigorously overseen. Ensuring adequate performance metrics and oversight mechanisms are in place is critical to mitigate these risks.

How effective is the 'full and open competition' method likely to be in ensuring value for taxpayers on this contract?

The 'full and open competition' method is generally considered highly effective in ensuring value for taxpayers on contracts like this one. By allowing all responsible sources to bid, it fosters a competitive environment where multiple providers vie for the contract. This competition typically drives down prices as bidders seek to offer the most attractive financial proposals. Furthermore, it encourages innovation and allows the government to select the offer that provides the best overall value, considering not just price but also technical approach, past performance, and management capabilities. For a significant contract like comprehensive medical services, this approach increases the likelihood that the Bureau of Prisons will secure high-quality services at a competitive market rate, thereby maximizing the efficient use of taxpayer funds.

What are the historical spending patterns for medical services at FMC Devens or similar federal medical centers?

Historical spending patterns for medical services at FMC Devens or similar federal medical centers are not provided in the current data. To assess this, one would need to examine prior contracts awarded for medical services at this specific facility or comparable institutions within the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) system. Analyzing past contract values, durations, service scopes, and contractor performance over several years would reveal trends in spending, identify potential cost increases or decreases, and highlight any shifts in service provision strategies. Understanding these historical patterns is crucial for evaluating the current $100 million award in context, determining if it represents an increase or decrease in spending relative to previous periods, and assessing the long-term financial commitment to healthcare at FMC Devens.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Health Care and Social Assistance › General Medical and Surgical Hospitals › General Medical and Surgical Hospitals

Product/Service Code: MEDICAL SERVICES › OTHER MEDICAL SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Solicitation ID: 15B20519R00000001

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: University of Massachusetts

Address: 55 LAKE AVE NORTH, WORCESTER, MA, 01655

Business Categories: Category Business, Educational Institution, Government, Higher Education, U.S. National Government, Not Designated a Small Business, Higher Education (Public), U.S. Regional/State Government

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $100,000

Exercised Options: $100,000

Current Obligation: $100,000

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 15B20521D00000001

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline