The Maryland Department of Health has released the Career and Volunteer Firefighter Innovative Cancer Screening Program (PHPA 3661), with applications due November 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST. Attached to this report are the official State documents and application details.
The Maryland Department of Health (MDH), is issuing the Request for Applications/ Request for Applications (RFA), to provide multiple grants to local fire departments and volunteer fire companies to procure innovative cancer screening tests that are not otherwise conducted during routine physical examinations or covered by insurance to professional and volunteer firefighters, as required by Health General Article §§ 13-4001-13-4007, Annotated Code of Maryland.
The RFA is available for review on the eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA). Further information can be found within the solicitation. If your organization is not registered as a vendor on eMMA, the link to register as a vendor is: https://procurement.maryland.
Program-specific questions for the MDH should be sent by email to LiChelle.Lindsey@maryland.gov
The screening vendor, 20/20 Biolabs, based in Gaithersburg, Maryland—developed OneTest™ for Cancer, one of the most widely used multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood tests among firefighter organizations across the United States. 20/20 Biolabs played a leading role in advocating for this program, working with the Maryland State Firefighters Association, legislative leaders, and the Maryland Department of Health over the past several years. Thanks to these joint efforts, nearly $500,000 in funding is available this fiscal year— almost double last year’s total. Importantly, 20/20 Biolabs has extensive experience supporting Maryland fire departments through this very program, having worked with multiple firefighter teams awarded grants over the past two years.
To make participation easier, you can work with 20/20 Biolabs who will supply pre-drafted application language and data for the key sections of the proposal, minimizing the administrative workload for your department. This year, they are also offering Maryland-licensed medical practitioners to handle all clinical follow-up for participating teams.
Why departments choose OneTest™ for Cancer:
Detects earlier-stage cancers by measuring protein and inflammatory biomarkers, enabling ongoing year-over-year monitoring – Low blood volume requirement allows on-site or at-home collection; no phlebotomist required. – Lower cost per test means your awarded funds can cover more firefighter screenings.
Departments can schedule a brief call with 20/20 Biolabs to discuss the program, support materials, and how to streamline their application process. Please click here to arrange a meeting: https://outlook.office.com/
