Department: Purchasing
Department Head/Elected Official: DeWight Dopslauf
Regular or Supplemental RCA: Regular RCA
Type of Request: Financial Authorization
Project ID (if applicable): N/A
Vendor/Entity Legal Name (if applicable): Sciences Forensic Pathology Labs, PLLC
MWDBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): N/A
MWDBE Current Participation (if applicable): N/A
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 Forensic Pathology Labs, PLLC in the amount of $132,000 for medical examiner services for the Institute of Forensic Sciences for the period of August 2, 2022 - August 1, 2023.
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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. Alex John (through Forensic Pathology Labs, PLLC) to provide medical examiner services. Dr. John is an experienced forensic pathologist and has provided consultation to HCIFS in the past. Dr. John is already aware of the Department's needs, standard operating procedures, and accreditation requirements. There is no expectation that Dr. John would perform any autopsies that might require future courtroom testimony.
Expected Impact:
Dr. John 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 times.
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