Step 3 Sign a Service Agreement

Once the health care provider’s (HCP’s) FCC Form 465 has been approved, USAC posts the form on the RHC website to start the 28-day competitive bidding process. USAC reminds service providers not to sign a contract or service agreement until the 29th day after FCC Form 465 has been posted. The 29th day is considered the allowable contract selection date, or the ACSD. If a contract is signed prior to the ACSD, the HCP’s request for support will be denied.

The HCP’s ACSD may be found under Search Posted Services on the RHC website. Once the search results are shown, the ACSD can be found in the far right column, under Allowable Contract Date. If you are unable to locate the ACSD, contact the RHC Customer Support Center for assistance.

Once the ACSD is Reached

A service provider may, at this point, sign a contract or service agreement with the HCP.

If a long-term contract is signed, the HCP may be exempt from the FCC competitive bidding requirements for the life of that contract (no optional extensions) – if it is deemed by USAC to be an ‘evergreen’ contract. To be considered an evergreen contract, it must contain the following:

1. Signed by both the service provider and the HCP
2. Dated (must be signed and dated after the Allowable Contract Service Date)
3. Type, term, and cost of service(s) specified
4. HCP location(s) identified
5. Formally reviewed and approved by USAC

The HCP will receive a letter from RHC specifying whether the contract has been deemed evergreen, or whether it will be considered a month-to-month contract (which means the HCP must competitively bid for services the following year).