District Of Columbia Council Bill PR25-0517

District Of Columbia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/1/23
• Passed: 11/7/23

Caption

Modifications 9 and 10 to Contract No. NFPHCNUR-19-C-003 between the Not-for-Profit Hospital Corporation and Contemporary Nursing Solutions Approval and Payment Authorization Emergency Declaration Resolution of 2023

Impact

The immediate need for the approval stems from escalating staffing costs and the hospital's requirements, as well as changes in staffing agency charges, prompting the requirement for retroactive contract approval. Specifically, the modifications request an increase in the total not-to-exceed amount for option year 3 by $1.5 million to $3.1 million and the exercise of option year 4 in the amount of $3 million. This contract modification exceeds the threshold amount of $1 million in a 12-month period, necessitating Council approval to ensure timely payment for these vital services.

Summary

PR25-0517 is a resolution from the Council of the District of Columbia, introduced on November 7, 2023, that seeks to declare an emergency concerning the approval of Modifications 9 and 10 to Contract No. NFPHCNUR-19-C-003 between the Not-for-Profit Hospital Corporation, commonly known as the United Medical Center, and Contemporary Nursing Solutions Inc. The resolution aims to authorize payments for essential staffing services that include both specialty and non-specialty temporary assignment nurses, which are critical to meet the hospital's ongoing staffing needs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears focused on urgency and support from council members, given the critical need for nursing staff amid financial and operational challenges faced by the United Medical Center. The bill is seen as a necessary measure to ensure that the hospital can continue to provide essential healthcare services without interruption due to staffing shortages.

Contention

While the bill addresses immediate staffing needs at the hospital, it does not appear to face significant opposition, likely due to its urgent nature and the broad support for ensuring that healthcare facilities are adequately staffed. However, discussions may arise regarding the long-term implications of such emergency declarations and the reliance on temporary staffing solutions in the healthcare sector.