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): Merrill Hines dba Final Advocate Forensics, PLLC
MWDBE Contracted Goal (if applicable): 0%
MWDBE Current Participation (if applicable): 0%
Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: 0% - Specialized, Technical, or Unique in Nature
Request Summary (Agenda Caption):
title
Request by the Office of the Purchasing Agent for approval of a professional services exemption from the competitive bid requirements and that the County Judge execute an agreement with Merrill Hines dba Final Advocate Forensics, PLLC in the amount of $151,800 for medical examiner services for the Institute of Forensic Sciences for the period of May 16, 2023 - May 15, 2024, Justification for 0% MWDBE Participation Goal: 0% - Specialized, Technical, or Unique in Nature.
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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. Merrill Hines (through Final Advocate Forensics, PLLC) to provide medical examiner services. Dr. Hines is an experienced forensic pathologist and has provided consultation to HCIFS in the past. He is already aware of the Department's needs, standard operating procedures, and accreditation requirements. There is no expectation that he would perform any autopsies that might require future courtroom testimony.
Expected Impact:
Dr. Hines will assist with caseload reduction by performing assigned autopsies. This will assist with turnaround time of case report completion, assisting with meeting accreditation standards, and providing information to decedent families.
Alternative Options:
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