The Government of Belize expects to receive a loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to assist in the financing of a comprehensive Health Sector Reform Program. A critical component of this program is an investment in the health facilities infrastructure nationwide.

The Ministry of Health requires the services of a consulting firm to carry out the design and construction supervision of physical facilities, as well as related services in respect of the following facilities:

• Construction of a new psychiatric unit at the Karl Heushner Memorial Hospital, consisting of a 15-bed acute psychiatric unit with a 25-place occupational therapy unit and support spaces; construction of a 40-place half-way house (sheltered housing facility) in Belize City
• Renovation and expansion of the 47-bed Regional Hospital in Belmopan
• Construction of facilities to house the regional health management team office (2,500 sq. ft.) and a polyclinic I (2000 sq. ft.) in Belmopan
• Expansion and renovation of the 28-bed Community Hospital in San Ignacio
• Construction of an office to house the Regional Health Management Team in Orange Walk (2,500 sq. ft.)
• Rehabilitation of the Community Hospital in Corozal (36-bed facility)
• Rehabilitation of the Community Hospital in Punta Gorda (30-bed facility)

The Ministry of Health now invites eligible local and international firms and consortia from the IDB=s member countries to indicate their interest in providing the required services. A shortlist of three to six firms will be selected and invited to submit technical proposals. Consulting firms seeking to be shortlisted are required to present evidence of their legal, technical and financial capacity, as well as relevant experience in providing the range of services required.

It is anticipated that the services provision will begin in July 2001. Firms shall be shortlisted based on the following criteria:

• General background
• Similar work done
• Prior experience in the country or in similar country
• Language proficiency
• Utilization of local consultants

Expressions of interest must be delivered to the address below by 1000 hours (local time) on 26 March 2001.

Project Coordinator

Health Sector Reform Program

35/37 Ambergris Avenue

Belmopan, Belize

Tel: (501-8) 22-059, 22-068

Fax: (501-8) 22-055

E-mail: reform@btl.net