Alaska VA extends deadline to Oct. 30 for police psychological testing contract quotes

The Department of Veterans Affairs on Monday extended its search for a contractor to test Alaska VA police applicants and evaluate VA employees in Anchorage. Only small businesses may compete. Quotes are now due at 8 am Alaska time Friday, Oct. 30.

According to the solicitation, the Alaska VA Healthcare System wants a certified contractor for three jobs: psychological testing of police applicants, yearly exams of current officers and, as needed, neuro-psychological testing of VA employees. The VA's price sheet lists 15 applicant tests and 19 annual exams a year. The evaluations support fitness-for-duty, workplace accommodation and other employment medical decisions. The contractor must schedule appointments within two weeks of a request and send written summary opinions to the Employee Health Service.

The contract would run a base year from Nov. 1 through Oct. 31, 2027, plus four one-year options, for up to five years total.

The VA first posted the request for quotes Oct. 7, with quotes due Oct. 20. A revised federal notice posted Oct. 20 moved the deadline to Monday morning, as Alaska News reported Oct. 20.

Monday's amendment corrected the wage determination and answered contractors' questions. The VA said it may allow police evaluations by secure telehealth at its discretion. It also said neuro-psychological testing needs a psychologist trained in neuropsychology.

VA policy requires new VA police officers to undergo a standardized interview and at least two psychological tests. One measures normal personality traits. The other measures psychopathology and personality problems. The evaluation must explore substance abuse and mental health symptoms that could impede the job.