by Nick Delgado

Guam - The Department of Public Health is suspending services under the National Family Caregiver Support program due to issues with the procurement process. Suspension of services begin Monday, October 1.

The services impacted are:

Information to Caregivers. A service for caregivers that provides the public and individuals with information on resources and services available within the community
Assistance to Caregivers. A service that assists caregivers in obtaining access to support services and resources within the community
Individual Counseling, Organization of Support Groups, and Caregiver Training. A service to assist the caregivers in the areas of health, nutrition, and financial literacy, and in making decisions and solving problems relating to their caregiving roles
Respite Care. A service to enable caregivers to be temporarily relieved from their caregiving responsibilities
Supplemental Services. A service provided on a limited basis, to complement the care provided by caregivers

According to DPHSS program coordinator Bertha Taijeron, the Division of Senior Citizens attempted to procure these services through a Request for Proposal process on August 9, however there were no proposals submitted to the published RFP. She adds a second RFP notice was issued on September 17, but additional clarifications needed caused a delay in the review and evaluation process. Taijeron states DPHSS anticipates having the review completed within the week. For more information contact DSC at 735-7421.