The Public Safety Committee voted 6–0 to recommend that the City Council waive competitive bidding and approve a sole-source agreement with LifeScan Wellness for annual firefighter physicals at an estimated annual cost of $172,010.

Deputy Chief Brad Cusick described the current program—annual NFPA-compliant physicals provided through multiple vendors—and said the department sought a single vendor that would come on-site to Overland Park and offer enhanced cancer screening. Staff said LifeScan will set up on-site and provide comprehensive labs, a submaximal treadmill cardiorespiratory test reviewed by cardiology, hemoccult stool testing for colon cancer, thyroid testing, PSA and testosterone for men, CA-125 for women and an ultrasound organ screen (abdomen, thyroid, testes or ovaries) intended to detect tumors or abnormalities earlier than current practice.

Cusick told the committee the current combined cost across existing vendors is about $740 per person; LifeScan’s proposed per-person cost is approximately $840, representing roughly a $100 per-person increase and an overall annual increase of about $20,000 given 206 employees. Staff emphasized logistical benefits of an on-site provider—reduced operational strain and fewer off-site appointments—and the department’s interest in early detection tied to cancer-risk reduction initiatives presented earlier.

Council member Cox asked whether the annual tests would satisfy the city’s wellness/biometrics program; staff confirmed LifeScan results would count for the city’s wellness program and that the program remains voluntary. Council member Mosher asked about confidentiality; staff said medical results are shared with the individual only and that the city receives only fitness-to-work letters if an employee cannot perform job duties.

A motion recommending waiver of the bid process and acceptance of the agreement with LifeScan Wellness in an amount not to exceed $172,010 annually was made and seconded; the committee approved the recommendation 6–0. Staff said the item will be forwarded to City Council for final approval.