Department: Purchasing
Department Head/Elected Official: DeWight Dopslauf
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Contract - Award
Project ID (if applicable):N/A
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): Ultraviolet Forensics LLC
MWDBE Contracted Goal (if applicable):
MWDBE Current Participation (if applicable):
Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: N/A - Personal Services Agreement
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request for approval of a personal services exemption from the competitive bid requirements and that the County Judge execute an agreement with Ultraviolet Forensics LLC in the amount of $66,000 for medical examiner services for the Institute of Forensic Sciences for the period of June 25, 2024 - September 30, 2024 with one (1) one-year renewal option.
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Background and Discussion:
The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences (HCIFS) is experiencing an increased case load this calendar
year in addition to an unprecedented attrition of Assistant Medical Examiners. To ensure timely completion of
statutorily required autopsies, HCIFS is contracting with Dr. Hannah Bielamowicz (through Ultraviolet Forensics LLC) to provide medical examiner services. Dr. Bielamowicz is an experienced forensic pathologist and has provided consultation to HCIFS in the past. She is already aware of the Department's needs, standard
operating procedures, and accreditation requirements. There is no expectation that she would perform any
autopsies that might require future courtroom testimony.
Expected Impact:
Dr. Bielamowicz will assist with caseload reduction by performing autopsies. This will assist with turnaround
time of case report completion, assisting with meeting accreditation standards, and providing information to
decedent families.
Alternative Options:
The alternative is for HCIFS to continue processing cases as soon as possible with current staff leading to staff
burnout, further attrition, and longer turnaround tim...
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