HHS Information Technology Services (HITS)
HHS Information Technology Services, commonly called HITS, is a government contract vehicle used by the Department of Health and Human Services to acquire information technology services and solutions from pre-approved contractors.
What Is HHS Information Technology Services (HITS)?
HHS Information Technology Services, commonly called HITS, is a government contract vehicle used by the Department of Health and Human Services to acquire information technology services and solutions from pre-approved contractors.
Designed specifically for IT requirements within HHS
Uses a pool of pre-vetted and qualified contractors
Covers a broad range of IT services and technical support
Streamlines acquisition and reduces procurement timelines
Operates under federal acquisition rules and oversight
How It Works in Government Contracting
HITS is used during the acquisition and task order phases of the procurement lifecycle. HHS contracting offices use the vehicle to issue task orders for specific IT needs, with program offices defining technical requirements and contracting officers soliciting proposals only from approved HITS vendors.
This approach reduces administrative burden and accelerates award timelines. HITS allows HHS to maintain continuity of IT operations while meeting mission-critical health, data, and security needs. Contractors compete at the task order level rather than through full open-market solicitations.
Regulatory Framework
HITS operates under the Federal Acquisition Regulation, which governs federal procurement processes.
Additional compliance requirements may apply depending on the nature of the IT services involved, such as cybersecurity standards or data protection mandates applicable to health information systems.
Why It Matters for Contractors
Access to Recurring HHS IT Requirements: HITS provides contractors with access to recurring HHS IT opportunities without competing in full and open procurements each time, reducing bid costs and shortening sales cycles.
Long-Term Federal Customer Relationships: Participation in HITS supports the development of long-term relationships with HHS program offices, enabling contractors to build familiarity with agency missions and expand their footprint over time.
Compliance and Performance Risk: Contractors must maintain compliance and strong performance standards to remain eligible for task orders. Noncompliance or poor performance can result in removal from future HITS opportunities.
Common Misconceptions
HITS guarantees work for approved vendors.
Vehicle award grants eligibility only. Contractors must still compete for individual task orders, and no minimum amount of work is guaranteed.
Only large businesses can participate in HITS.
Small businesses may qualify for HITS if they meet the technical, financial, and compliance requirements established in the solicitation.
HITS replaces other federal IT contract vehicles.
HITS is specific to HHS and complements broader federal IT vehicles such as GSA Schedules and GWACs. It does not replace them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of services are available through HITS?
HITS supports services such as software development, cybersecurity, IT consulting, systems integration, and data management.
How do contractors gain access to HITS opportunities?
Contractors must be awarded a position on the HITS vehicle through a competitive solicitation process before they can compete for task orders.
Is HITS used outside the Department of Health and Human Services?
No. HITS is intended for HHS and its associated agencies only.
Do small businesses qualify for HITS?
Yes. Small businesses may qualify if they meet the technical, financial, and compliance requirements outlined in the HITS solicitation.
Related Government Contracting Topics
Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Contracts: Flexible contracts that allow agencies to order services as needed over time, forming the structural foundation of the HITS contract vehicle.
Task Orders: Individual orders issued under a contract vehicle for specific work, through which HHS directs IT projects and services to HITS-awarded contractors.
Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR): The primary rule set governing federal procurement activities, under which HITS operates and which all task order actions must comply with.
IT Services Contracting: The acquisition of technical services supporting federal systems and missions, encompassing the full range of capabilities available through HITS.
Small Business Set-Asides: Programs designed to increase federal contracting opportunities for small firms, which may be incorporated into HITS task order competitions depending on the requirement.
Cybersecurity Compliance: Requirements contractors must meet to protect federal information systems, particularly relevant for HITS given the sensitive health data managed by HHS.
Strategic Importance
HITS is a strategically important contract vehicle for IT firms seeking sustained engagement with one of the largest civilian agencies in the federal government. By consolidating HHS IT procurement into a structured, pre-vetted pool, it enables faster delivery of technology solutions that support critical public health missions.
For contractors, earning a position on HITS requires strong technical credentials, a robust cybersecurity posture, and a proven track record in federal IT. Those who compete and perform well gain a durable foothold in an agency where technology is central to mission success.