S02 36C24126Q0731 P0003 OPPORTUNITIES-Comb Syn SDVOSB -RFQ Req Review Brnd Equal Ext 09-18-26 1100.docx

Combined Synopsis/Solicitation Notice Combined Synopsis/Solicitation Notice Modification P0003: 11”00 AM 09/09/26

COMBINED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION – TOTAL SD/VOSB SET-ASIDE RFQ

GENERAL INFORMATION: This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial products or commercial services prepared in accordance with the format in FAR 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; proposals are being requested, and a written solicitation will not be issued.

This solicitation: 36C24126Q0731 P0003 is confirmed as a brand name only requirement. MOD P0003 extends the RFQ due date to 09/18/26 at 11:00 AM EDT. MOD P00003 replaces the initial Combined Synopsis and all subsequent amendments/modifications.

The previous Modification, MOD P00002 set up the requirement for a brand equal review to consider the opportunity for a brand equal requirement. The Service level SMEs (Subject Matter Experts) reviewed the product for technical merit/capability. The SMEs determined that due to standardization to the Sorna Vertex 25ei Platform/CD Burner, and because this system is already fully integrated with, fully compatible with, and fully functional with PACS, VNA, RIS, and EMR integrated systems, the service. The solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through FAC 2026-01, March 13, 2026.

This acquisition is being conducted as a Total SD/VOSB Set-Aside for the procurement of one (1) Sorna brand Vertex 25ei Platform and Sorna CD Burner for VAMC Central Western Massachusetts (CWM). VAMC CWM has standardized to the Sorna Vertex 25ei Platform and the integrated Sorna CD Burner. The CD Burner is approaching end-of-life requiring the replacement of the Sorna Vertex 25ei Platform in its entirety; the platform includes the Sorna CD Burner.

This is a commodities procurement for the Sorna Vertex 25ei/CD Burner package. The quotes will be submitted via email. The associated North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code for this procurement is 334118 with a small business size standard of 100. The FSC/PSC is 5836.

VAMC CWM (Northampton) 421 North Main Street Leeds, MA 01053-9764

Product Chart: VAMC CWM Sorna Vertex 25ei & CD Burner

Total

The quotations shall be brand name for the for Sorna Vertex 25ei & CD Burner listed in the Product Chart above and as described in detail in the combined synopsis solicitation, Intent to Compete/ RFQ as posted on Contract Opportunities starting on Page 1 (P1). The SMEs for VAMC Radiology at CWM reviewed opportunities for brand equal procurement. The SMEs have determined that due to system integration with existing Vertex Systems, Vertex Software, PACS, VNA, RIS, and EMR systems, due to sustaining operational efficiencies achieved via standardization, and due to the need to maintain continuity of workflows, CWM requires the Sorna Vertex 25ei Platform/CD Burner. No substitutions can be considered. The FOB point is “Destination.”

Please read and follow the solicitation provisions, clauses, and the addendum to offerors stated below:

The following solicitation provisions apply to this acquisition:

1. FAR 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors–Commercial Items (RFO)

· Award shall be made to the responsible SBA SBS VetCert-certified SD/VOSB quoter whose quote is determined to be the lowest price for the brand name product required.

· Pricing shall be entered for each line item as listed in the PRODUCT CHART above.

· If shipping will not fall below $250.00, the cost of shipping needs to be rolled into the line-item price for the Vertex 25ei/CD Burner line-item pricing.

· The requirement is for the procurement of Sorna Vertex 25ei & CD Burner listed on (P5) for VAMC CWM; no substitutions can be considered.

· Offeror must be registered in SAM.

· Offeror must be certified/verified as an SD/VOSB in the SBA SBS VIP (Veteran Information Pages) VetCert as an SD/VOSB.

· Offeror must meet LOS (Limitations on Subcontracting) requirements and per the LOS listed clauses below.

1) Compliance with the LOS clauses must be asserted by the offeror in the email accompanying their quote.

The following solicitation provisions apply to this acquisition:

2. FAR 52.212-2 (RFO) The government will evaluate information based on the following evaluation criteria:

(a) Evaluation Factors: Price

1) The Government will award a contract resulting from this Combined Synopsis Intent to Compete SD/VOSB Set-Aside/RFQ to the capable, responsible, and eligible SD/VOSB whose quotation conforms to all solicitation requirements and offers the lowest price.

2) Capability to provide all required Sorna Vertex 25ei & CD Burner products in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)(P13).

The following provision is incorporated into 52.212-1 as an addendum to this solicitation:

52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors – Commercial Products and Commercial Services (RFO) (a) North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code and small business size standard*. The NAICS code(s) and small business size standard(s) for this acquisition appear elsewhere in the Request for Quote (RFQ). However, the small business size standard for a concern that submits a quote, other than on a construction or service acquisition, but proposes to furnish an end item that it did not itself manufacture, process, or produce is 500 employees if the acquisition—

(1) Is set aside for small business and has a value above the simplified acquisition threshold; Or

(2) Uses the HUBZone price evaluation preference regardless of dollar value, unless the quoter waives the price evaluation preference; or

(3) Is an 8(a), HUBZone, service-disabled veteran-owned, economically disadvantaged women-owned, or women-owned small business set-aside or sole-source award regardless of dollar value.

* Note: For this requirement, the competition will be an SD/VOSB set-aside for eligible and capable SD/VOSBs.

(b) Submission of Quotes. Submit signed and dated quotes to the office specified in this Combined Synopsis: Intent to Compete/RFQ at or before the exact time specified. Quotes may be submitted via email on letterhead stationery, or as otherwise specified in the RFQ.

As a minimum, quotes must show—

(1) The solicitation number;

(2) The time specified in the solicitation for receipt of quotations;

(3) The name, address, and telephone number of the quoter;

(4) A technical description of the items being quoted in sufficient detail to evaluate compliance with the requirements in the solicitation. This may include product literature, or other documents, if necessary.

(5) Terms of any express warranty;

(6) Price and any discount terms;

(7) "Remit to" address, if different from the mailing address;

(8) A completed copy of the representations and certifications under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.212-3 (see FAR 52.212-3(b) for those representations and certifications that the quoter shall complete electronically).

(9) Acknowledgment Request for Quotation amendments;

(10) Past performance will not be considered in simplified acquisition procurements.

(11) Quote should include a statement specifying the extent of agreement with all terms, conditions, and provisions included in the solicitation. Quotes that fail to furnish required representations and certifications, information requested in (1) to (9), and accept the terms and conditions of the solicitation may be excluded from consideration.

(c) Period for acceptance of Quotes. The quoter agrees to hold the prices in its quote firm for 30 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of quotes unless another time period is specified in an addendum to the solicitation. N/A (Not Applicable)

(d) Product samples. N/A

(e) Multiple Quotes. Quoters are requested to submit one (1) quote presenting their best price for the required Sorna Vertex 25ei & CD Burner.

(f) Late submissions, revisions, and withdrawals of quotes.

(1) Quoters are responsible for submitting quotes so as to reach the Government office designated in the solicitation by the time specified in the solicitation. If no time is specified in the solicitation, the time for receipt is 11:00 AM local time, for the designated Government office on the date that quotes are due. (Time specified is 09/18/26 11:00 AM (EDT))

(2) Any quotation received at the Government office designated in the solicitation after the exact time specified for receipt of quotes is "late" and may not be considered unless it is received before purchase order issuance and the Contracting Officer (CO) determines that accepting the late quotation would not unduly delay the acquisition.

(3) If an emergency or unanticipated event interrupts normal Government processes so that quotations cannot be received at the Government office designated for receipt of quotes by the exact time specified in the solicitation, and urgent Government requirements preclude a notice of an extension of the closing date, the time specified for receipt of quotes will be deemed to be extended to the same time of day specified in the solicitation on the first work day on which normal Government processes resume.

(g) Issuance of Purchase Order. The Government may issue a purchase order to one or more quoters as identified in the Request for Quote (RFQ). Therefore, the quoter’s initial quote should contain the best terms and the best quoted price. The Government may reject any or all quotes if such action is in the public’s best interest.

· Clarification: This will be awarded to the one (1) quote that provides all services and products as listed in the Product Chart on (P5), at the lowest price.

· All SD/VOSB eligibility requirements must be met for quotes to be considered.

(h) Multiple awards. The Government may issue a purchase order for any item or group of items of a quotation, unless the quoter qualifies the quotation by specific limitations. Unless otherwise provided in the schedule, quotations may not be submitted for quantities less than those specified.

The Government reserves the right to issue a purchase order for a quantity less than the quantity quoted, at the unit prices quoted, unless the quoter specifies otherwise in the quotation. N/A (Not Applicable; this will be a single award.)

(i) Unique entity identifier (UEI). Applies to all quotes that exceed the micro-purchase threshold, and quotes at or below the micro-purchase threshold if the solicitation requires the contractor to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).)

· The quoter must enter, in the block with its name and address on the cover page of its quote, the annotation "Unique Entity Identifier" followed by the unique entity identifier that identifies the quoter's name and address. The quoter also must enter its Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) indicator, if applicable.

· The EFT indicator is a four-character suffix to the UEI. The suffix is assigned at the discretion of the quoter to establish additional SAM records for identifying alternative EFT accounts (see FAR subpart 32.11) for the same entity.

· Due to the requirement falling in the 4th Quarter of FY26, this competition will require an existing SAM UEI.

(j) Requests for information. The CO will not notify unsuccessful quoters that responded to this Request for Quotation (RFQ).

(End of Provision)

To facilitate the award process, all quotes must include a statement regarding the terms and conditions herein as follows:

"The terms and conditions in the solicitation are acceptable to be included in the award document without modification, deletion, or addition."

OR

"The terms and conditions in the solicitation are acceptable to be included in the award document with the exception, deletion, or addition of the following:"

Quoters shall list exception(s) and rationale for the exception(s), if any.

Any questions or concerns regarding this solicitation must be forwarded in writing via e-mail to the Point of Contact listed below.

All quotations shall be emailed to: carlos.ortiz3@va.gov

CC:

Deidra Thomas Contracting Officer deidra.thomas@va.gov

The Government will evaluate quotations based on the ability to provide all required Sorna Vertex 25ei & CD Burner line items and associated support at the lowest price. Please submit your quote with your best and final price via email to the Government POC listed above. Award will be made to the capable, eligible, and responsible SD/VOSB whose quotation conforms to all solicitation requirements for a brand name product and offers the lowest price.

The full text of FAR provisions or clauses may be accessed electronically at http://acquisition.gov/comp/far/index.html

This is an open-market combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial services as defined herein. The government intends to award a one-time contract/purchase order as a result of this combined synopsis/solicitation that will include the terms and conditions set forth herein.

E-mailed quotes will be accepted. Submission shall be received no later than 11:00 AM EDT 09/18/26.

Late submissions shall be treated in accordance with the solicitation provision at FAR 52.212-1(f).

VAAR LOS Clauses for Service SD/V0SB Set-Aside Service Contract

852.219-73 VA Notice of Total Set-Aside for Verified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses.

As prescribed in 819.7011, insert the following clause:

VA Notice Of Total Set-Aside For Verified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (NOV 2022)

(a) Definition. for the Department of Veterans Affairs, “Service-disabled Veteran-owned small business concern or SDVOSB”:

(1) Means a small business concern—

(i) Not less than 51 percent of which is owned by one or more service-disabled Veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business, not less than 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more service-disabled Veterans or eligible surviving spouses (see VAAR 802.101, Surviving Spouse definition);

(ii) The management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more service-disabled Veterans (or eligible surviving spouses) or, in the case of a service-disabled Veteran with permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver of such Veteran;

(iii) The business meets Federal small business size standards for the applicable North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code identified in the solicitation document;

(iv) The business has been verified for ownership and control pursuant to 38 CFR part 74 and is listed in VA's Vendor Information Pages (VIP) database at https://www.vetbiz.va.gov/vip/; and

(v) The business will comply with VAAR subpart 819.70 and Small Business Administration (SBA) regulations regarding small business size and government contracting programs at 13 CFR parts 121 and 125, provided that any reference therein to a service-disabled veteran-owned small business concern or SDVO SBC, is to be construed to apply to a VA verified and VIP-listed SDVOSB, unless otherwise stated in this clause.

(2) The term “Service-disabled Veteran” means a Veteran, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2), with a disability that is service-connected, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(16).

(3) The term “small business concern” has the meaning given that term under section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).

(4) The term “small business concern owned and controlled by Veterans with service-connected disabilities” has the meaning given the term “small business concern owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans” under section 3(q)(2) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(q)(2)), except that for a VA contract the firm must be listed in the VIP database (see paragraph (a)(1)(iv) of this clause).

(b) General.

(1) Offers are solicited only from VIP-listed SDVOSBs. Offers received from entities that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs at the time of offer shall not be considered.

(2) Any award resulting from this solicitation shall be made to a VIP-listed SDVOSB who is eligible at the time of submission of offer(s) and at the time of award.

(3) The requirements in this clause apply to any contract, order or subcontract where the firm receives a benefit or preference from its designation as an SDVOSB, including set-asides, sole source awards, and evaluation preferences.

(c) Representation. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(e), only VIP-listed SDVOSBs are considered eligible to receive award of a resulting contract. By submitting an offer, the prospective contractor represents that it is an eligible SDVOSB as defined in this clause, 38 CFR part 74, and VAAR subpart 819.70.

(d) Agreement. When awarded a contract action, including orders under multiple-award contracts, an SDVOSB agrees that in the performance of the contract, the SDVOSB shall comply with requirements in VAAR subpart 819.70 and SBA regulations on small business size and government contracting programs at 13 CFR part 121 and part 125, including the non-manufacturer rule and limitations on subcontracting requirements in 13 CFR 121.406(b) and 13 CFR 125.6. Unless otherwise stated in this clause, a requirement in 13 CFR parts 121 and 125 that applies to an SDVO SBC, is to be construed to also apply to a VIP-listed SDVOSB. For the purpose of limitations on subcontracting, only VIP-listed SDVOSBs (including independent contractors) shall be considered eligible and/or “similarly situated” (i.e., a firm that has the same small business program status as the prime contractor). An otherwise eligible firm further agrees to comply with the required certification requirements in this solicitation (see 852.219-75 or 852.219-76 as applicable). These requirements are summarized as follows:

(1) Services. In the case of a contract for services (except construction), the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs (excluding direct costs to the extent they are not the principal purpose of the acquisition and the SDVOSB/VOSB does not provide the service, such as airline travel, cloud computing services, or mass media purchases). When a contract includes both services and supplies, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the service portion of the contract

(2) Supplies/products.

(i) In the case of a contract for supplies or products (other than from a non-manufacturer of such supplies), the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs. When a contract includes both supply and services, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the supply portion of the contract.

(ii) In the case of a contract for supplies from a non-manufacturer, the SDVOSB prime contractor will supply the product of a domestic small business manufacturer or processor, unless a waiver as described in 13 CFR 121.406(b)(5) has been granted. Refer to 13 CRF 125.6(a)(2)(ii) for guidance pertaining to multiple item procurements.

(3) General construction. In the case of a contract for general construction, the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 85% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs.

(4) Special trade construction contractors. In the case of a contract for special trade contractors, no more than 75% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, may be paid to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs.

(5) Subcontracting. An SDVOSB must meet the NAICS size standard assigned by the prime contractor and be listed in VIP to count as similarly situated. Any work that a first tier VIP-listed SDVOSB subcontractor further subcontracts will count towards the percent of subcontract amount that cannot be exceeded. For supply or construction contracts, the cost of materials is excluded and not considered to be subcontracted. When a contract includes both services and supplies, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the portion of the contract with the preponderance of the expenditure upon which the assigned NAICS is based. For information and more specific requirements, refer to 13 CFR 125.6.

(e) Required limitations on subcontracting compliance measurement period. An SDVOSB shall comply with the limitations on subcontracting as follows:

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.] __By the end of the base term of the contract or order, and then by the end of each subsequent option period; or __By the end of the performance period for each order issued under the contract.

(f) Joint ventures. A joint venture may be considered eligible as an SDVOSB if the joint venture is listed in VIP and complies with the requirements in 13 CFR 125.18(b), provided that any requirement therein that applies to an SDVO SBC is to be construed to apply to a VIP-listed SDVOSB. A joint venture agrees that, in the performance of the contract, the applicable percentage specified in paragraph (d) of this clause will be performed by the aggregate of the joint venture participants.

(g) Precedence. The VA Veterans First Contracting Program, as defined in VAAR 802.101, subpart 819.70, and this clause, takes precedence over any inconsistencies between the requirements of the SBA Program for SDVO SBCs, and the VA Veterans First Contracting Program.

(h) Misrepresentation. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(g), any business concern, including all its principals, that is determined by VA to have willfully and intentionally misrepresented a company's SDVOSB status is subject to debarment from contracting with the Department for a period of not less than five years (see VAAR 809.406-2 Causes for Debarment).

(End of clause) Parent topic: Subpart 852.2—Text of Provisions and Clauses

852.219-74 VA Notice of Total Set-Aside for Verified Veteran-Owned Small Businesses.

As prescribed in 819.7011, insert the following clause:

VA Notice of Total Set-Aside for Verified Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (NOV 2022)

(a) Definition. For the Department of Veterans Affairs, “Veteran-owned small business or VOSB”:

(1) Means a small business concern—

(i) Not less than 51 percent of which is owned by one or more Veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business, not less than 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more Veteran(s);

(ii) The management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more Veteran(s);

(iii) The business meets Federal small business size standards for the applicable North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code identified in the solicitation document;

(iv) The business has been verified for ownership and control pursuant to 38 CFR part 74 and is listed in VA's Vendor Information Pages (VIP) database at: https://www.vetbiz.va.gov/vip/; and

(v) The business will comply with VAAR subpart 819.70 and Small Business Administration (SBA) regulations regarding small business size and government contracting programs at 13 CFR parts 121 and 125, provided that any requirement therein that applies to a service-disabled veteran-owned small business concern or SDVO SBC, is to be construed to also apply to a VA verified and VIP-listed VOSB, unless otherwise stated in this clause.

(vi) The term VOSB includes VIP-listed service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSB).

(2) “Veteran” is defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2).

(3) The term “small business concern” has the meaning given that term under section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).

(4) The term “small business concern owned and controlled by Veterans” has the meaning given that term under section 3(q)(3) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(q)(3)), except that for a VA contract the firm must be listed in the VIP database (see paragraph (a)(1)(iv) of this clause).

(b) General.

(1) Offers are solicited only from VIP-listed VOSBs, including VIP-listed SDVOSBs. Offers received from entities that are not VIP-listed at the time of offer shall not be considered.

(2) Any award resulting from this solicitation shall be made only to a VIP-listed VOSB who is eligible at the time of submission of offer(s) and at time of award.

(3) The requirements in this clause apply to any contract, order or subcontract where the firm receives a benefit or preference from its designation as a VOSB, including set-asides, sole source awards, and evaluation preferences.

(c) Representation. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(e), only VIP-listed VOSBs are considered eligible to receive award of a resulting contract. By submitting an offer, the prospective contractor represents that it is an eligible VOSB as defined in this clause, 38 CFR part 74, and VAAR subpart 819.70.

(d) Agreement. When awarded a contract action, including orders under multiple-award contracts, a VOSB agrees that in the performance of the contract, the VOSB shall comply with requirements in VAAR subpart 819.70 and SBA regulations on small business size and government contracting programs at 13 CFR parts 121 and 125, including the non-manufacturer rule and limitations on-subcontracting requirements in 13 CFR 121.406(b) and 125.6. Unless otherwise stated in this clause, any requirement in 13 CFR parts 121 and 125 that applies to an SDVO SBC, is to be construed to also apply to a VIP-listed VOSB. For the purpose of the limitations on subcontracting, only VIP-listed VOSB, (including independent contractors) is considered eligible and/or “similarly situated” (i.e., a firm that has the same small business program status as the prime contractor). An otherwise eligible firm further agrees to comply with the required certification requirements in this solicitation (see 852.219-75 and/or 852.219-76 as applicable). These requirements are summarized as follows:

(1) Services. In the case of a contract for services (except construction), the VOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance to firms that are not VIP-listed VOSBs (excluding direct costs to the extent they are not the principal purpose of the acquisition and the SDVOSB/VOSB does not provide the service, such as airline travel, cloud computing services, or mass media purchases). When a contract includes both services and supplies, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the service portion of the contract.

(2) Supplies/products.

(i) In the case of a contract for supplies or products (other than from a non-manufacturer of such supplies), the VOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, to firms that are not VIP-listed VOSBs. When a contract includes both supply and services, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the supply portion of the contract.

(ii) In the case of a contract for supplies from a non-manufacturer, the VOSB prime contractor will supply the product of a domestic small business manufacturer or processor, unless a waiver as described in 13 CFR 121.406(b)(5) has been granted. Refer to 13 CFR 125.6(a)(2)(ii) for guidance pertaining to multiple item procurements.

(3) General construction. In the case of a contract for general construction, the VOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 85% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, to firms that are not VIP-listed VOSBs.

(4) Special trade construction contractors. In the case of a contract for special trade contractors, no more than 75% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, may be paid to firms that are not VIP-listed VOSBs.

(5) Subcontracting. A VOSB must meet the NAICS size standard assigned by the prime contractor and be listed in VIP to count as similarly situated. Any work that a first tier VIP-listed VOSB subcontractor further subcontracts will count towards the percent of subcontract amount that cannot be exceeded. For supply or construction contracts, the cost of materials is excluded and not considered to be subcontracted. When a contract includes both services and supplies, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the portion of the contract with the preponderance of the expenditure upon which the assigned NAICS is based. For information and more specific requirements, refer to 13 CFR 125.6.

(e) Required limitations on subcontracting compliance measurement period. A VOSB shall comply with the limitations on subcontracting as follows:

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.] __By the end of the base term of the contract or order, and then by the end of each subsequent option period; or __By the end of the performance period for each order issued under the contract.

(f) Joint ventures. A joint venture may be considered eligible as a VOSB if the joint venture is listed in VIP and complies with the requirements in 13 CFR 125.18(b), provided that any requirement therein that applies to an SDVO SBC is to be construed to also apply to a VIP-listed VOSB. A joint venture agrees that, in the performance of the contract, the applicable percentage specified in paragraph (d) of this clause will be performed by the aggregate of the joint venture participants.

(g) Precedence. The VA Veterans First Contracting Program, as defined in VAAR 802.101, subpart 819.70, and this clause, takes precedence over any inconsistencies between the requirements of the SBA Program for SDVO SBCs and the VA Veterans First Contracting Program.

(h) Misrepresentation. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(g), any business concern, including all its principals, that is determined by VA to have willfully and intentionally misrepresented a company's VOSB status is subject to debarment from contracting with the Department for a period of not less than five years (see VAAR 809.406-2, Causes for Debarment).

(End of clause)

Statement of Work Sorna CD Burner Radiology-VA Central Western MA HCS

1. Item Description and Salient Characteristics: The Department of Veterans Affairs requires a Sorna Vertex 25ei System Package and accessories to produce high-density, medical-grade CDs of radiology files. This system will replace the existing CD burner, which has reached end-of-life and is prone to failure. VAMC CWM has standardized to the Sorna Vertex Platform and Sorna Software. The Vertex 25ei System will serve as the primary CD-burning unit, with the current system remaining as a backup located in the Release of Information area.

System Includes:

· Vertex Host software with unlimited Client and Media Importer licenses

· Automated DICOM profiles and local burning capabilities

· Pre-configured Windows 11 Professional PC

· Monitor

· Keyboard

· Mouse

· Disc Label Design Software and All Necessary Cabling

Specifications Include:

· Input Capacity: 2 Bins (50 Discs EA)

· Output Capacity: 10-Disc Drawer and 50-Disc Bin

· Dual Recorders and High-Resolution Inkjet Printer (Black and Color Cartridges) Media types: CD-R, DVD-R, BD-R with white inkjet print media Dimensions: 13.7”H x 14.8” W x 20.2” D

2. Delivery Requirements:

Deliver to: VAMC CWM (Northampton) 421 N. Main Street Leeds, MA 01053

Delivery Hours: 0800-1530

· Building has a receiving dock;

3. Market Research:

· ADDS Up indicates that there are multiple SD/VOSB resellers/distributors in the market who are capable and VIP-verified eligible in the market.

Recommendations: The recommendation is for a brand name, SD/VOSB Set-Aside. There is an NMR Waiver for NAICS 334118: Computer Peripheral Equipment. The OM is an SB and does not restrict resale of the Vertex 25ei to any reseller. Because the OEM is SB, it is similarly situated with all SB Class resellers. It is expected that there will be many SD/VOSBs who will meet all NMR and LOS Criteria and will qualify for an SDVOSB Set-Aside. It is anticipated that there will be ample competition between eligible and responsible SD/VOSB resellers, who can meet all NMR and LOS criteria. With the Rule of 2 (38 USC 8127(d)) satisfied, Contracting is seeking to apply VFCP to compete to the maximum extent practicable via an SD/VOSB set-aside.

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Justification for Brand Name Awards IAW FAR 11.105 For Over Micro-Purchase Threshold but Not Exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold

Acquisition Plan Action ID: 36C241-26-AP-2289

1. Contracting Activity: Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 01, VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System.

2. Brief Description of Supplies/ Services required and the intended use/Estimated Amount: Radiology’s Diagnostic Imaging Services clinic has standardized to the Sorna Vertex 25ei Optical Media Platform. The CD Burner has reached end-of-life and has become unreliable. A system upgrade is required to improve operational continuity, to reduce delays associated with Release of Information (ROI) requests and will ensure uninterrupted production of diagnostic imaging media necessary to support patient care.

The VA Central Western Massachusetts (CWM) Healthcare System requires the acquisition of one (1) Vertex 25ei Optical Media Package. The Sorna CD Burner comes with the Vertex 25ei platform. The package includes all associated software, hardware, implementation services, project management, installation, UPS backup power supply, and required accessories.

The Vertex 25ei System is required by Radiology: Diagnostic Imaging to produce medical-grade DICOM Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine. DICOM is optical media containing radiology studies and associated patient information for Veterans receiving care within VA and through Community Care providers. More than fifty percent (50%) of the imaging discs produced by Diagnostic Imaging are provided to community specialists.

3. Unique characteristics that limit availability to only one source, with the reason no other supplies or services can be used: The Sorna Vertex 25ei Platform with integrated Sorna CD Burner is peculiar to one manufacturer and essential to the Government’s requirements at CWM. The CWM Radiology Service has standardized the Sorna Vertex 25ei Platform and integrated Sorna CD Burner to maintain full interoperability, fit, form, and function with established enterprise imaging workflows.

The Vertex 25ei is required as it combines a pre‑configured hardware autoloader, Vertex Server and Client licensing, media publishing, and optional Vertex SHARE cloud‑brokered streaming. The Sorna package provides proven PACS connectivity, installation‑free client deployment, and unified queue management that operators already use at CWM. These characteristics are essential to preserve site workflows and mission continuity

A recent Subject Matter Expert review confirms that brand‑equal products cannot meet the minimum need without revalidation, retraining, and supply‑chain changes that introduce operational and patient‑care risk.

The Service’s standardization and interoperability needs require the Sorna Vertex 25ei package. Specifically, alternate systems reviewed cannot be modified to meet the minimum needs of VA Central Western Massachusetts (CWM) without introducing unacceptable integration risk, operational disruption, and patient‑care impact.

An analysis of alternative products by a Radiology Department SME has determined that a brand equal product will net “best meet” the Government’s minimum needs, due to the following reasons:

· Site‑specific interoperability cannot be assured. Alternate brands require full revalidation of connectivity and workflow performance across the site’s PACS, VNA, RIS, and EMR systems. This revalidation is substantial, high‑risk, and cannot be completed without interrupting ongoing patient‑care workflows already standardized to the Sorna Vertex 25ei platform.

· Operational disruption is unavoidable. An alternate system reviewed requires “adjustments and accommodations” to function within the CWM environment, including new queue configurations, new burning processes, workflow revisions, and staff retraining. These changes would break established standardization and cannot be implemented without downtime, increased cognitive load on staff, and heightened risk of human error.

· Consumables and supply-chain incompatibility cannot be corrected. Alternate brands use alternate brands of ink and media ecosystems, which are incompatible with the Sorna‑certified media and maintenance components used at CWM. Supply‑chain divergence would require new procurement channels, labeling/media training, dual‑inventory management, and quality assurance processes that introduce unacceptable risk of unreadable discs, mislabeling, and delays in information delivery to providers.

· Patient‑care risk cannot be mitigated. Any system replacement that requires workflow redesign and integration revalidation increases the likelihood of delays, missed reports, unreadable discs, or errors in distributing diagnostic imaging to providers and patients. The SME assessment concludes that these patient‑care risks cannot be mitigated to an acceptable level if CWM transitions away from its standardized Vertex environment.

The FAR 11.105 brand‑name requirement for the Sorna Vertex 25ei Platform replacement is supported for the purpose of maintaining full system integration of existing and new Sorna Vertex 25ei platforms. This platform is required to maintain operational efficiency and to sustain the quality of patient healthcare provided by Diagnostic Imaging Services at CWM.

3. Description of market research conducted and results or statement why it was not conducted:

1. Market Research Findings: Market Research was conducted by the service and by Contracting IAW FAR 10.001 and VAAR 810.001.

· VFCP (Veterans First Contracting Program): No SDVOSB or VOSB firms were found offering the Vertex 25ei System Package at SBS; thirty-seven potentially capable SD/VOSB resellers were located at ADDS Up. The manufacturer allows reseller distribution. There is an NMR Waiver for NAICS 333118. Per ADDS Up, there are at least thirty-seven (37) potentially capable SD/VOSBs who are eligible to compete and are likely to provide competitive quotes. Contracting recommends an SD/VOSB Set-Aside, anticipating the Rule of Two, 38 USC 8127(d) will be met.

· Mandatory Sources: The Vertex 25ei System is not available through mandatory Government supply sources or existing VA inventories.

· Other Government Agencies: No Government-wide acquisition vehicle was identified can satisfy this requirement via an interagency contract.

· SAC (Strategic Acquisition Center) Contract Catalog: A search of the VA Strategic Acquisition Center Contract Catalog using the keyword "CD Burner" returned no contract vehicle capable of satisfying this requirement.

· SCMC (Supply Chain Master Catalog): The SCMC is being integrated into the ADDS Up (Analytics, Data and Decision Support Unified Platform). ADDS Up searched to determine product availability and distribution of the Vertex 25ei in the market.

· NAC (National Acquisition Center): There are no NAC FSS contracts for this requirement.

· GSA Advantage: A search of GSA Advantage utilizing the keywords "CD Burner," "Sorna," and "Philips" produced zero results for the Vertex 25ei System available for Government purchase through GSA Advantage.

· GSA e-Library: GSA e-Library: A search of GSA e-Library did not identify a FSS contract offering the required Vertex 25ei System Package.

· ADDS-UP: A search of (ADDS-UP) for NAICS 334118 and the keyword "CD Burner" identified prior acquisitions involving optical media equipment.

· Commercial Marketplace: Commercial market research confirmed that optical media duplication equipment is commercially available. OEM information indicates that the Vertex 25ei platform is peculiar in the market and is the only platform compatible with the existing Vertex package to which VAMC CWM has standardized. No brand equivalent products exist due to system integration and compatibility requirements.

· Commercial Item Determination (FAR 12.102(a)): Market research shows optical media duplication equipment is available, but only the Vertex 25ei platform is compatible with the standardized Vertex package at VAMC CWM. No other brands offer equivalent products because of specific system integration and compatibility requirements.

NMR (Nonmanufacturing Rule): The Vertex 25ei/Sorna CD Burner platform falls under NAICS 334118, with a size standard of 1,000 employees. An Nonmanufacturer Rule (NMR) class waiver exists, and it is anticipated that there are ample SD/VOSB resellers who meet the other three (3) NMR requirements per 13 CFR 121.406(b) (i-iii):

1) Fewer than 500 employees, 2) Distribute the Vertex 25ei/Sorna CD Burner as a normal course of business, and 3) take possession of the product as soon as it ships/is released. The SB OEM is similarly situated with potential SD/VOSB resellers and does not restrict distribution, providing for an SD/VOSB Set-Aside. It is anticipated that the Rule of Two will be satisfied with two (2) or more potentially capable SDVOSB resellers in the market. and maximizing competitive procurement. VFCP can be applied.

Recommendations: The recommendation is for a brand name, SD/VOSB Set-Aside. There is an NMR Waiver for NAICS 334118: Computer Peripheral Equipment. The OM is an SB and does not restrict resale of the Vertex 25ei to any reseller. Because the OEM is SB, it is similarly situated with all SB Class resellers. It is expected that there will be many SD/VOSBs who will meet all NMR and LOS Criteria and will qualify for an SDVOSB Set-Aside. It is anticipated that there will be ample competition between eligible and responsible SD/VOSB resellers, who can meet all NMR and LOS criteria. With the Rule of 2 (38 USC 8127(d)) satisfied, Contracting is seeking to apply VFCP to compete to the maximum extent practicable via an SD/VOSB set-aside.

Page 1 of Page 1 of

Combined Synopsis/Solicitation Notice