Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) Curriculum Development and Training
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Indian Health Service (IHS), under the Department of Health and Human Services, has issued a Sources Sought Notice for market research to identify qualified businesses capable of developing and implementing a culturally responsive Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) curriculum and training program. This initiative aims to address chronic pain management disparities and reduce opioid-related harms within American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities. Responses are due by March 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM CST.
Scope of Work
The IHS requires a contractor to develop a comprehensive, scalable PNE curriculum and a train-the-trainer program. Key requirements include:
- Curriculum Development: Evidence-based, aligned with the biopsychosocial model, integrating culturally responsive approaches, and supporting safe pain self-management. Materials must include facilitator guides, self-paced modules, participant workbooks, video sessions, LMS-compatible materials, and CME/CEU-eligible provider training.
- Core Content Areas: Nociception vs. pain, central sensitization, biopsychosocial model, endogenous pain modulation, safe medication use, and integration of traditional healing.
- Community Engagement: Convening a Stakeholder Advisory Board, conducting listening sessions, and culturally translating concepts using storytelling and metaphors.
- Training Delivery: Training approximately 20 AI/AN providers/staff as facilitators.
- Evaluation: Developing evaluation tools, pilot implementation, and submitting interim and final reports.
Specialized Experience Required
Vendors must demonstrate at least 10 years of experience working in Tribal communities on health initiatives, developing culturally adapted health curricula, and conducting stakeholder processes. The project team must include a Pediatrician advisor and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC).
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought (Market Research Only)
- Set-Aside: None specified (for market research purposes)
- Period of Performance: Twelve (12) months from award, with potential option periods.
- Place of Performance: Primarily contractor site (virtual), with possible limited on-site support.
- Potential NAICS Codes: 611430 (Educational Support Services), 541611 (Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services), and 541720 (Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities). Vendors are encouraged to recommend an appropriate NAICS code.
- Response Due: March 30, 2026, by 2:00 PM CST
- Published: February 26, 2026
Response Instructions
Interested parties should submit a capability statement (maximum 10 pages) via email to Cynthia.gunderson@ihs.gov. The statement should include company details, relevant experience (past 5-10 years), experience with Tribal communities, proposed project team, examples of similar work, recommended NAICS code, and small business status. The subject line should be: “Sources Sought – PNE Curriculum”.