FAR 8 Sole Source Justification Blood Gas Testing_Redacted.pdf

This is a Sole Source Justification document for a brand-name purchase of Siemens RP500 Whole Blood/Arterial Blood Gas Analyzers and related supplies and services through the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) Multiple-Award Schedule Program.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office, is awarding a one-year Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) to Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc. (located at 511 Benedict Ave., Tarrytown, NY 10591) to replace existing FSS BPA 36C24222A0005, which expires September 30, 2026. The acquisition supports two VA Medical Centers in the Bronx (James J. Peters VAMC) and Northport, NY, which require the Siemens RP500 analyzer for continuity of blood gas testing services without platform changes. The estimated contract value is redacted. The justification cites uniqueness and specialization under FAR 8.401(b) GSAR 538.7104-3(b)(1)(ii), as the Siemens RP500 is solely manufactured and distributed by Siemens and can only be serviced by Siemens. Additionally, the required pleural fluid testing component must be FDA-approved, limiting alternatives.

The deliverables include 5,200 CPR BLG RP 500 Blood Gas cartridges for Bronx, 2,400 for Northport; two RP500e Blood Gas Analyzers with UPS units for each facility; warranty service (Year 1) and extended service (Year 2) through Rapidpoint 500e PLUS for both locations; and various support consumables. Market research confirmed no other manufacturers/distributors offer comparable equipment. The contracting officer and one level above have certified that the sole source justification meets requirements for other than full and open competition. No actions will be taken to remove barriers to future competition for subsequent acquisitions.