36S79725R0002 OSG Questions and Answers- 11.17.25.pdf

36S79725R0002 Orthotic Softgoods and Prosthetic Supplies

Questions & Answers

1. Are there any estimated quantities associated with the CLINs?

Answer: See Attachment: “Ortho Softgoods Quantity Data.pdf” for estimated quantities. Please note that these are only estimates, and the contract will be awarded as an IDIQ (Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity) contract, these amounts are not guaranteed.

2. On CLINs, are total products needed a mandatory minimum number of different products needed to propose? If so, is one of these considered a back-up and one a primary?

Answer: No, there is no minimum.

3. I did not see estimated usage for each line item in the attached documents. This was included in previous solicitations in order to provide more accurate pricing for submitted proposals. Are we able to obtain estimated annual usage for each line item?

Answer: See Attachment: “Ortho Softgoods Quantity Data.pdf” for estimated quantities. Please note that these are only estimates, and the contract will be

4. Can you provide current contracted manufacturers for each line item?

Answer: No.

5. Could you please confirm whether this solicitation will result in a single awardee or multiple awardee?

Answer: The solicitation will result in multiple awards.

6. Are you going to give estimated quantities?

quantities. Please note that these are only estimates, and the contract will be

7. Can the DLC provide a sample for filling out the Price schedule excel file - ATTACHMENT - Price Schedule.UPDATED?

Answer: No, a sample will not be provided. Instructions are on the first tab in the Price Schedule workbook.

8. Are you able to tell me if there is an NMR waiver for this solicitation?

Answer: The SBA has not approved a non-manufacturer waiver for the types of items listed in this solicitation.

9. Could you clarify if CPARS evaluations were provided to every contract holder?

Answer: No, the Government cannot verify if CPARS were provided to every contract holder.

10. Would it be possible to use a CPARS evaluation from another government contract, such as the MSPV contract, for our upcoming evaluation?

Answer: Past Performance questionnaires are required for the evaluation. The Government has the option to review CPARS evaluations at its discretion.

11. Given that large businesses may be bidding again, could you please clarify if we will be competing against large businesses this time?

Answer: The tiered priority would be Tier 1 – SDVOSB, Tier 2 - VOSB, Tier 3 – Other Small Business concerns in the following order without regard to priority among HubZone, 8(a) or Woman-Owned Small Business (see VAAR 819.7010):

a. Hubzone, b. 8(a), c.Woman Owned, d. All other Small Business and Tier 4 – Large Businesses.

12. In preparation for our offer, we need to clarify the unit issue noted on page 102 of the solicitation. This notes that the “unit issue is one each, not one package.”

For items such as compression stockings/socks, can you please confirm that these should NOT be offered as a pair, and we should be bidding as one single sock/stocking?

Answer: The VA only issues compression stockings in pairs. Please bid as pairs.

The definition in the solicitation has been updated.

13. Please advise how does the country of origin affect the decision making? For instance, if the company is based in the United States, but the manufacturing is done outside the US – will that be seen as a strike against you or eliminate you from the bid process? Please confirm that the TAA clause is in effect.

Answer: Yes all clauses listed in the solicitation are in effect. Reference C.7 52.225-5 Trade Agreements. “The Buy American statute applies to all small business tiers. The Buy American statute restricts the purchase of supplies that are not domestic end products. For manufactured end products, the Buy American statute requires these products be manufactured in the United States. If an offeror supplies a non-domestic product, VA will evaluate the price of the product in accordance with FAR 25.106(b). The TAA applies to the large business tier.”

14. Can you provide the specific list of designated countries – specific to the TAA/FARS, etc?

Answer: Here is a list at this link: https://www.gsa.gov/buy-through-us/purchasing-programs/multiple-award-schedule/help-with-mas-contracts-to-sell-to-government/roadmap-to-get-a-mas-contract/readiness-assessment-for-mas-offerors/look-up-trade-agreements-actdesignated-countries.

15. Please advise if products manufactured in the Dominican Republic would qualify for the minimum technical requirements and as a designated country? It appears the Dominican Republic is listed as a designated country under the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) country designation, but we wanted to confirm. (page 83)

Answer: The Buy American statute (BAS) applies to all small business tiers. If the company offering a product manufactured in the Dominican Republic is a small business, the BAS applies, and that product would be considered a non-domestic product under the BAS. The product from DR would only be able to be awarded subject to the price preference evaluation under FAR 25.106(b).

https://www.gsa.gov/buy-through-us/purchasing-programs/multiple-award-schedule/help-with-mas-contracts-to-sell-to-government/roadmap-to-get-a-mas-contract/readiness-assessment-for-mas-offerors/look-up-trade-agreements-actdesignated-countries https://www.gsa.gov/buy-through-us/purchasing-programs/multiple-award-schedule/help-with-mas-contracts-to-sell-to-government/roadmap-to-get-a-mas-contract/readiness-assessment-for-mas-offerors/look-up-trade-agreements-actdesignated-countries https://www.gsa.gov/buy-through-us/purchasing-programs/multiple-award-schedule/help-with-mas-contracts-to-sell-to-government/roadmap-to-get-a-mas-contract/readiness-assessment-for-mas-offerors/look-up-trade-agreements-actdesignated-countries https://www.gsa.gov/buy-through-us/purchasing-programs/multiple-award-schedule/help-with-mas-contracts-to-sell-to-government/roadmap-to-get-a-mas-contract/readiness-assessment-for-mas-offerors/look-up-trade-agreements-actdesignated-countries

16. We would like to submit a proposal for CLIN 304 with our EpiGel Tennis Elbow Support. The EpiGel meets all minimum technical requirements except it is not PDAC approved. We did not submit the EpiGel to PDAC since HCPC code A4467 is a non-reimbursable HCPC code. Can we submit the EpiGel on the proposal even though it is not PDAC approved? (brochure attached)

Answer: No, MTRs must be met.

17. Are we able to submit two different products for one CLIN?

Answer: Yes, there is no set limit.

18. Will shipping be to the Denver location only, other locations inside the US, or other locations worldwide?

Answer: Shipping will be to Denver only at the DLS address as stated in the solicitation.

19. Where can I find the attachments referenced throughout the presolicitation notice and listed in section D?

Answer: All attachments are on the solicitation posting in the Attachment/Links section.

https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/fe993eac1a4749a2a4c444c527e40c1 f/view

20. Given that responses to offeror questions are expected to be released after the October 24 submission deadline for questions, would the Government consider extending the proposal submission due date beyond November 14th to allow sufficient time for offerors to review the responses and incorporate any necessary adjustments into their proposals?

Answer: An extension will be given with the posting of the 2nd amendment with the Q&A responses. The new submission deadline is 16:30 EST 01 December 2025.

https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/fe993eac1a4749a2a4c444c527e40c1f/view https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/fe993eac1a4749a2a4c444c527e40c1f/view

21. Can you please provide direction for the product CLINs listed with sized requirements in this solicitation? Specifically, is bidding a universal orthotic that otherwise meets the parameters of all individual sizes acceptable? Also, whether or not the quoted bid price can differ for the same product if submitted to both Category 1 (LPTA) and Category 2 (BV)?

Answer: As long as it covers the size range specified in the MTRs it would be accepted for evaluation. No, the quoted bid price cannot differ for the same product.

22. This is the first time the DLC has required PDAC letters for only some products and not all. Currently, there are products on the DLC contract that do not have PDAC letters. Will all products eventually require a PDAC letter?

Answer: No, the only products that require a PDAC letter are indicated as such in the MTRs.

23. The VAWC33 is currently the contracted item for CLIN 305, with a length of 10 inches. However, the new requirement specifies 9 inches. Will the 10-inch length still be acceptable?

Answer: The minimum length is 9 inches.

24. For CLIN 205, there appears to be a discrepancy. The description requests anterior-posterior control, but the Design requirement list only mentions a posterior panel.

Could you clarify whether both anterior and posterior control are desired, or just posterior?

Answer: The MTR design description will be modified to reflect desired controls. MTR amended to read – “Design: Lumbar sacral orthosis with rigid or semi rigid posterior and anterior panel with or within soft covering” See updated attachments: ATTACHMENT - CATEGORY 2_BEST VALUE

FINAL11.17.25

25. The price schedule does not include estimated quantities. Will this information be provided at a later date?

Answer: See Attachment: “Ortho Softgoods Quantity Data.pdf” for estimated quantities. Please note that these are only estimates, and the contract will be

26. For the 22 CLINs in Category 1, will multiple companies be awarded a contract for these CLINs or will only one company be awarded?

Answer: Reference Category 1 Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) Evaluation Method. It varies by CLIN as annotated in the need totals identified in the MTRs.

27. Regarding proposal submission instructions, are the proposals mailed in to the NAC CSAS, or can they be emailed in?

Answer: The proposals are to be mailed in and emailed/submitted with VA approved flash drive. Page 95 and 100 of the Solicitation. Reference Section E.2

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS REGARDING PROPOSAL PREPARATION

28.

• We noticed this solicitation has been listed as a Small Business set aside under NAICS 339113 with clause 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting (Oct 2022) (15 U.S.C. 657s) included on page 89 as well; however, we also noticed clause 52.219- 33, Nonmanufacturer Rule (Sep 2021) (15 U.S.C. 637(a)(17)) on page 90 has not been included.

• Additionally, there is direction on page 103 for offerors that are a large business to include a completed subcontracting plan with their proposal along with the supplementary attachment - Small Business Subcontracting Plan.

• In the Evaluation Method section on page 115, it indicates that proposals will be solicited at targeted tiers and offers will be evaluated according to the established tiered order. Tier 4 is listed as Large Business.

With all the points listed above and the unlikelihood of a Small Business being able to fulfill all the manufacturing requirements of this solicitation, can you please advise if this should still be listed as a Small Business Set Aside or if this should be resolicited as an unrestricted opportunity?

Answer: The requirement will remain listed as a Small Business Set Aside.

29.

• On page 91 we noted that clause 52.225-1, Buy American—Supplies (OCT 2022) (41 U.S.C. chapter 83) has been included; however, on pages 69 & 103 there is direction that if the product is provided on the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) then submit a copy of the FSS product list.

• Products on the Federal supply Schedule (FSS) are not necessarily required to be BAA compliant and TAA products are accepted.

Can you please advise if TAA compliant products would also be accepted for this solicitation? Many of the products on the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) are TAA compliant and restricting this opportunity to BAA compliant products only would limit what can be provided.

Answer: As TAA does not apply to Small Businesses, and products offered by small businesses must be meet the requirements of the BAA; however, VA will use the price evaluation outlined in FAR 25.106 to determine price reasonableness.

30. Are you able to please advise if items not included in the Attachment LPTA BV list may be offered for this solicitation? Or if only items listed in the attachment can be submitted?

Answer: Only items listed in the attachment can be submitted.

31. With the large scope of this solicitation along with the extensive requirements included, can you please advise if an extension to the deadline can be granted in order to provide a complete and appropriate response?

Answer: An extension will be granted at the time of posting the 2nd amendment with the Q&A.

32. Does the government want a specific size for the sample/samples per each CLIN?

Answer: Preferably the most common size sold or Large.

33. Compression stockings are usually sold as a pair. Page 102, Section (C), number

(5) states that the Unit Issue is one each and not a package. Does this apply to compression stockings?

Answer: The VA only issues compression stockings in pairs. Please bid as pairs. The definition in the solicitation has been updated.

34. What is the expected time between award notice and contract start date?

Answer: 30-60 days (estimated)

35. Please confirm whether any Contract Usage Fees (CUF) apply to this requirement.

Answer: No. CUF does not apply to this contract.

36. On page 102 (d)(i) it states that “Notes within a manufacturer/dealer catalog do not meet this requirement.” Please clarify whether this restriction applies to handwritten notes, that are not part of the official catalog?

Answer: Information must be provided as a Word, Excel, or PDF document clearly stating where the information can be located (catalog page, web URL), product identification information and any other pertinent information to allow efficient location of information. Handwritten notes are not permitted.

37. Are the material requirements to include both acrylic and cotton if there is no nylon? Referenced on CLIN 402-412.

Answer: Breathable, elastic material that are either synthetic or a combination of natural and synthetic fibers.

38. What measurement is required for “short” and “tall” options on CLIN 402-412?

Answer: The measurement for “short” and “tall” options on CLIN 402-412 can be determined by vendor discretion, but “short” and “tall” sizes must be marked on packaging as such, differentiating it from offerors standard height.

What is the measurement required for “full calf” option on CLIN 402 – CLIN 412?

39. Answer: The measurement for “full calf” options on CLIN 402-412 can be determined by vendor discretion, but “full calf” sizes must be marked on packaging as such differentiating it from offerors standard calf sizing.

40. Please confirm desired compression level for CLIN 404, 409-410. 20-30 mmHg is the industry standard in the US and give a more targeted compression range for those needing therapeutic compression for venous insufficiency, varicose veins, lymphedema, etc. Standard 18 mmHg stockings are considered anti-embolism.

Which compression is preferred? Please note that in the previous RFQ, these items were revised to be 20-30 mmHg.

Answer: Updated the MTRs - CLINs 404,405, 409 and 410 to reflect the desired compression to be 20-30 mmHg.

41. Page 64, Section B 3.5, mentions “Commercial warranties will vary by product and listed in the minimum technical requirements.” There is no commercial warranty requirements listed under the CLIN item’s, MTRs, will this be updated or removed?

Answer: The following has been added to each CLIN: Warrant: A minimum of 1 year warranty against defects in workmanship, fabrication materials and components.

42. Please confirm whether any Service Level Agreement (SLA) or related administrative fees apply under this contract.

Answer: Yes. SLA applies.

43. Do American made products get priority over trade friendly nation products?

Answer: The Buy American statute applies to the small business tiers, and the BAS includes a preference for domestic-made products. For the large business tier, the TAA applies, and VA will not prioritize U.S-made products over products from designated countries.

44. In the ATTACHMENT – Price Schedule.UPDATED.xlsx there is no mention of color, do you want each size and color for each CLIN listed to be on the price schedule?

Answer: If the prices are different for different colors and sizes then they need to be listed separately.

45. Page 82, Section C.8, FAR 52.225-5 Trade Agreements, but then on page 91, the Buy American FAR 52.225-1is also selected. Do some CLIN’s fall under one or the other?

Answer: For the dollar threshold of this contract the Trade Agreements Act (TAA) applies at a minimum. Under the TAA, the VA can and will accept bids that offer American-made products, and such products will be favored as they comply with the domestic preferences outlined in the BAA. Both acts coexist and provide flexibility in procurement to ensure compliance with trade agreements while also supporting domestic manufacturing

46. Under the evaluation process, it is mentioned that a tiered approach will be used, with SDVOSB being tier 1, VOSB tier 2, and so on. However, the set aside checked clause is in reference to “Partial Small Business Set-Aside” FAR 52.219-7 on page will there be corrections to the set-aside to include SDVOSB/VOSB?

Answer: The Solicitation includes SDVOSBs and VOSBs in the Tiered approach, Refer to Evaluation method page 109, No corrections are needed.

47. The Minimum Technical Requirements for CLINs 404 – 412 state the following for

Material: “Acrylic/cotton blend, nylon, (or combination) and at minimum 23% spandex/elastic component (non-latex)” Question: Industry Standards for Compression Stockings range from 20% to 26% spandex. Will the VA change this MTR to accept a 23% spandex with a variance of +/- 3%?

Answer: No

48. On page 101, Section E.2 (a) the page limit is set to 250 pages. I would like clarification if this 250 page limit is for each volume, or is shared between both volumes combined.

Answer: The page limit is shared between both volumes.

49. Page 45, MTR for CLIN 402 - 412, Packaging is listed as “Minimalist packaging to reduce waste and space.” Would you require packaging in units of 6, or would you require each product, packaged individually as a pair?

Answer: The products should be packaged as a pair.

50. The MTR requests that all advanced features, including details such as materials, colors, and sizing options, be listed for CLINs 402–412, even when these may not be industry standard features for each product type. To clarify — are these examples (materials, colors, sizing, etc.) intended as required features for each CLIN, or as illustrative examples of potential attributes only?

Answer: The advanced features noted are illustrative examples of potential attributes only.

51. The solicitation requirement that sizing options include Short, Regular, Tall, and Full- Calf variants significantly increases inventory complexity and SKU count.

Industry standards for knee-high compression garments specify fit by ankle and calf circumference (typically 7–14″ and 11–23″, respectively) rather than by multiple length categories. Could the VA please confirm whether the Short, Tall, and Full-Calf options are mandatory for CLINs 402–406, or if Regular length within these circumference ranges meet the requirement?

Answer: The variations and combinations of sizing and measurements are included as illustrative examples of potential attributes only.

52. CLINs 402–406 list both a ‘Size’ section requiring either circumference sizing or all offeror’s commercially available sizes, and an additional ‘Options’ section listing Short, Regular, Tall, and Full-Calf. Since commercially available sizes already encompass the full range of industry-standard circumference fits (ankle 7″–14″, calf 11″–23″), would the VA consider removing the separate ‘Options’ requirement and using the ‘Size’ section—all offeror’s commercially available sizes—as the all- inclusive sizing standard for CLINs 402-406?

53. Page 102, E.2 (c) has listed under the Manufacturing/Distributor paragraph 52.225- 5, however would this need to be corrected to include 52.225-1 and 52.225-6 to satisfy the Buy American Act?

Answer: The TAA applies to Large Business proposals and evaluations. For Small Business proposals, the BAA applies. Proposals will be evaluated based on the Act that applies to within each tier.

54. On page 97, NAICS code 541519 is referenced, I believe in error, please confirm.

Answer: The correct NAICS code is 339113. Document is updated.

55. For Group 5: Compression Therapy, the SKU allocation is large. Our concern is that the SKU allocation would be significant with 5-6 sizes, 3 lengths, 2 widths, and 2 colors, making this cumbersome for VA’s to inventory and distribute.

Would a narrower SKU allocation that would still fit 95% of the veterans be considered to reduce the complexity of this?

56. Based on our calculations, currently there are 1,320 size and color variations across all compression products.

There are some sizing mentions in the “Advanced Features” section of the CLIN’s, please confirm if these are requirements for sizing, or options, if they are available currently?

Answer: The variations and combinations of sizing and measurements are included as illustrative examples of potential attributes only.

57. Will the DLC provide a sample Excel pricing file? We anticipate having multiple items per CLIN in some cases and want to ensure our submission meets all requirements.

58. Regarding the subcontracting paperwork: if we are not subcontracting to another company, is this paperwork still required?

Answer: Refer to section E2 Instructions to Offerors. If you are a large business, you must include a subcontracting plan. If you are a small business, this requirement does not apply to you.

59. Could you clarify the exact deliverables for a complete submission packet? Also, would it be acceptable to provide the paperwork on a thumb drive?

Answer: Page 95. Reference sections E.2 SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS REGARDING PROPOSAL PREPARATION and E.2.1.3 GENERAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS. Only a Government approved flash drive is acceptable and must be requested from Contracting Officer Brandy Hudson at brandy.hudson@va.gov

60. For samples of each sized item we bid, does the specific size of the sample matter (e.g., can we provide a small, medium, or large size)?

Answer: Preferably the most common size sold or Large

61. Is a breakdown of the location—such as the percentage of deliveries going to clinics— available?

62. Ensure availability and consistency of product for nationwide usage while integrating the DLS ROES program for ordering. Products will be ordered using the DLS’s ROES and will be shipped directly to the clinic or in some cases the Veteran. This mechanism will be the primary source for contracted products for the VA. Please provide either estimated usage by CLIN for the current requirements under this solicitation, or, if estimates for the new contract are not available, please provide historical usage data by CLIN for the predecessor contract.

63. The VA intends to solicit and award a multiple award IDIQ contracts to provide the widest range of technologies for clinicians and Veterans and to ensure that the demand created by the large volume of orders generated by the VA can be met. Please provide volume estimates for the current contract. If current estimates are not available, please provide historical order volumes.

64. Page 9, B.3.1.B Purpose and Objectives b) states: "Products will be ordered using the

DLS’s ROES and will be shipped directly to the clinic or in some cases the Veteran. Page 65 states: Deliveries to VA DLS can be made to the following address:

Department of Veterans Affairs Denver Logistics Center 555 Corporate Circle Golden CO 80401-5621 Please confirm whether all deliveries will be made to the Denver Logistics Center address listed on page 65, or if deliveries to other locations will also be required. If deliveries will be required to locations other than the Denver Logistics Center, can you provide the percentage of orders that will need to be delivered to each location? If a detailed breakdown is not available, can you provide the percentage of orders that will be shipped to clinics compared to those shipped directly to veterans?

Answer: All products shall be shipped directly from the vendor to the DLC. The DLC will then either ship to clinic or to the Veteran.

65. Serial numbers as applicable to the product (Chargers). The serial number must be scannable by DLS scanning equipment via barcode or QR code. Please provide details regarding the DLS scanning equipment used for reading barcodes or QR codes.

Specifically, what barcode or QR code formats and sizes are compatible? Are there any requirements regarding the placement or data structure of the serial number to ensure it is scannable by DLS equipment?

Answer: The SOW no longer requires that serial numbers be scannable by DLS scanning equipment. The SOW has been updated.

66. If the product is provided on the Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) then submit a copy of the FSS product list. Is it acceptable to propose pricing for FSS-listed products that differs from the current FSS price, or must the offered price match the FSS price?

Answer: Price must be equal to or less than the current FSS price.

67. C.7, FAR 52.225-5 TRADE AGREEMENTS (NOV 2023)

C.8, FAR 52.225-6 TRADE AGREEMENTS CERTIFICATE (FEB 2021)

C.12, FAR 52.225-1, Buy American - Supplies (OCT 2022) Please clarify the country of origin requirements for this solicitation. Specifically, since the solicitation includes FAR 52.225-5 (Trade Agreements), FAR 52.225-6 (Trade Agreements Certificate), and FAR 52.225-1 (Buy American - Supplies), are offerors required to comply with both the Trade Agreements Act and the Buy American - Supplies clause, or are there specific scenarios where each clause would apply? If so, please specify when each set of requirements is applicable.

Answer: TAA applies to Large Business proposals and evaluations. For Small Business proposals BAA applies.. Proposals will be evaluated based on the Act that applies within each tier.

68. The offeror must submit both hard paper copy and electronic copy (Email or VA provided Flash Drive by Request) of its entire proposal in the numbers specified below.

Please provide the email address for proposal submissions. Additionally, please confirm where requests for a VA-provided flash drive should be sent.

Answer: Please use email brandy.hudson@va.gov for email submissions and flash drive requests. Solicitation has been updated with this information.

69. Note: Page limit is set at 250 pages. Will the page limit specified in the solicitation apply to the Excel pricing attachment and the required product information attachments, or are these excluded from the page count?

Answer: The 250-page limit includes all documents submitted in the proposal, including the excel pricing attachment and the required product information attachments.

70. The envelope or box shall be addressed to the following address and shall show the time specified for receipt, the solicitation number, and the name and address of the offeror. Please confirm that "relevant solicitation attachments" refers only to those attachments that require a response, completion, or signature by the offeror.

Answer: Yes, relevant solicitation attachments refers only to those attachments that require a response, completion, or signature by the offeror.

71. Attachment - Key Points of Contact Third Table Heading:

EMAIL

(NAME, ADDRESS, TELEPHONE, FAX, EMAIL ADDRESS)

The third contact information table is labeled "EMAIL." Could you please clarify whose contact information should be provided in this section? Is this intended for a specific point of contact, such as the primary proposal contact, the contact for ordering, or another individual?

Answer: Primary Contractor Representative Point of Contact should be provided in the third contact information table. Document has been updated see attachment - ATTACHMENT - Key Points of Contact 10.31.2025

72. Attachment - LPTA_BV LIST. Total Product(s) Needed. Please clarify whether the number listed in the "Total Product(s) Needed" column indicates the number of individual items required per CLIN, or if it refers to the number of units based on the specified unit of measure (for example, 2 each per CLIN).

mailto:brandy.hudson@va.gov

Answer: The Total Products Needed column indicates the total number of products the VA intends to award for each CLIN.

73. In the Price Schedule excel sheet, there is a section for "Option year". Does this mean we would fill in the prices for 10 years instead of 5?

Answer: Yes.

74. If we need to submit the Amendment of Solicitation/Modification of Contract, how would we fill it out?

Answer: Bidders are not required to submit an Amendment of a Solicitation.

Bidders are required to acknowledge all amendments to the solicitation by filling out the SF30 that accompanies the amendment. Fill out Block 11 of the SF30 in its entirety and include it with the proposal.

75. Do we have the right to increase prices during the contract term? If so, how frequently and by what amount or percentage?

Answer: Yes, Vendors have the right to increase prices when they submit the attached pricing sheet with their proposal. Frequency is no more than yearly.

Increases will be proposed by each vendor. This contract is a Firm Fixed Price contract, and this solicitation will be competed based on Price (LPTA or BV Tradeoff) as indicated in the evaluation method section. Vendors are encouraged to submit best and final prices at the start as the government does not anticipate opening discussions.

76. Is there any available or historical volume data from previous contracts? If orders are expected to begin in January 2026, what level of inventory should we plan to prepare?

77. Is there a way to view questions submitted by other vendors with VA answers?

Answer: All questions and answers submitted during the Q&A period are made available for all potential bidders to see as an amendment to the solicitation.

78. What are the next steps for submitting a proposal or expressing interest as a contractor?

Answer: Refer to E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023) and E.2 SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS REGARDING PROPOSAL PREPARATION and E.2.1.3

GENERAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

79. Are there any specific forms, templates, or registration requirements we must complete?

Answer: Refer to E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023) and E.2 SPECIFIC

80. Are there any mandatory registrations or past performance criteria?

Answer: Refer to E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023) and E.2 SPECIFIC

81. Should all communications and submissions be directed to your office?

Answer: Refer to E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023) and E.2 SPECIFIC

82. 52.219-7, Notice of Partial Small Business Set-Aside is marked. With the contract being a small business set-aside, is there a Non-Manufacturing waiver in place?

Answer: No, the SBA has not approved a class waiver for the types of items listed in this solicitation and the contracting officer has opted not to request an individual non-manufacturer waiver.

83. If there is no non-manufacturing waiver, will the tiers for the small business set-asides be limited to those who are small business manufacturers (including those evaluated as LPTA)?

Answer: There is no non-manufacturing waiver for this requirement. Tiers are limited as described in the solicitation. The tiers for small business set-asides must be small business manufacturers or supply a product manufactured by another small business, if the offeror is a nonmanufacturer.

84. Is the 250-page limit for both volumes combined?

Answer: Page limit includes all documents submitted in the proposal.

85. How does one request a VA-provided flash drive?

Answer: Please email brandy.hudson@va.gov

86. Is the Nonmanufacture Rule applicable to this solicitation? 52.219.33 is not checked in 52.212-5, so we assume not. Has the VA obtained a NMR waiver for all products being solicited?

Answer: No. SBA has not approved a waiver for the types of items listed in this solicitation and the contracting officer has opted not to request an individual non-manufacturer waiver.

87. Assuming there is a Nonmanufacturer waiver in place, will the VA be giving evaluation preference for offerors products which are manufactured in US (BAA compliant) by a domestic small business manufacturer?

Answer: Yes, preference will be given the US manufactured products in accordance with the BAA for the small-business tiers. SBA has not approved a NMR waiver for the types of items listed in this solicitation.

88. Are we correct to assume that BAA applies to all CLINs submitted by SDVOSBs and other small business set-aside tiers? The only time TAA would apply is if VA makes it down to Tier 4 - Large Business for a given CLIN?

89. Considering the requirement for both a hard paper copy and electronic copy, how would the VA prefer to receive the Price File for our hard copy submission? Since there are 42 columns, it will be not readable on a standard 8.5X11 page. Can offerors submit hard copy price proposal on an 11x17 sheet, folded?

Answer: Yes

90. Can hard copy paper proposals and product samples be hand-delivered to DALC? If so, where should they be brought to?

Answer: All paper proposals and products samples will only be accepted by shipment.

91. Regarding CLINs 404, 405, 406, 407, 408, 409, 410, 411 and 412, can the 23% spandex/elastic component (non-latex) for compression come from non-spandex products that produce the elastic effect and still deliver the indicated compression levels? This was addressed in the previous RFP in 2019 and an amendment was issued to allow for this.

Answer: As long as the material combination used produces the prescribed compression, any elastic component will be acceptable.

92. The Minimum Technical Requirements for CLINs 404 thru 412 state the following for Material: “Acrylic/cotton blend, nylon, (or combination) and at minimum 23% spandex/elastic component (non-latex)” Question: Industry Standards for Compression Stockings range from 20% to 26% spandex. Will the VA change this MTR to accept a

23% spandex with a variance of +/- 3%? This was addressed in the previous RFP in 2019 and an amendment was issued to extend this range.

93. In the previous contracts with the DLC the Compression Stocking CLINs had different Minimum Technical Requirements (MTR) that aligned more with industry standards. For example, CLIN 404, 409, and 410 have an industry standard compression rating of 20- 30mmHg, not 18-30mmHg. This was addressed in the previous RFPs in 2019 as well as 2012/2013 and an amendment was issued to change the MTR to 20- 30mmHg. Question: Will the VA change the minimum technical requirement to 20- 30mmHg for these CLINs? If VA is not willing to change the MTR, will a 20-30mmHg compression rating meet the MTR?

94. Regarding Group 5 (BV) - for all compression stockings there is an open toe and closed toe CLIN, with the exception of the 18-30mmHg below the knee model (only a closed toe option, CLIN 404). Will there be a requirement for an open toe below the knee 18- 30mmHg compression stocking?

95. For product samples with multiple sizes, does the VA have a preference what size is provided?

Answer: The most common size per vendor internal sales history.

96. Will the VA provide estimated quantities for each CLIN? If not, are offerors supposed to just put a quantity of one (1) for each CLIN being proposed?

97. Are offerors required to submit the Product Detail Attachment with their proposal? It appears as a requirement in B 3.8.2 Product Refresh and Warranty, but is not included in 52.212-1 or its addendum. It appears to be for contract admin after award.

98. The solicitation states that "Unit Prices" for each offered product shall be provided in the Price Schedule. It also states that Unit Price is for "one item". Just to clarify, if a CLIN is designed as a pair (compression stockings for example), the pair is considered one item?

99. Can offerors propose multiple products from a single manufacturer (or multiple manufacturers) for any given CLIN?

100. The solicitation states "Offerors must ensure the statement at FAR 52.212-3(k)(1) has been completed." Was this intended to read FAR 52.212-3(b)(1) vice 52.212- 3(k)(1)?

Answer: Correct. Solicitation has been updated.

101. Should all product samples be sent to?

National Acquisition Center Commodities and Services Acquisition Service Attn: Daniel Harder or Kelli Kruger 555 Corporate Circle, Golden CO 80401

102. We’ve noticed that there is no CLIN option for a below-the-knee compression stocking with 20–30 mmHg and an open toe. This item would be highly beneficial for veterans, as this style and compression level are frequently requested and needed.

Would the VA consider adding this option to the solicitation?

compression to be 20-30 mmHg..

103. Would you accept hand deliveries of the submission and/or samples, or do you require shipping?

Answer: No hand deliveries are acceptable.

104. The second most common below-the-knee compression product is the 20–30 mmHg open-toe compression stocking; however, this CLIN was not listed in the solicitation. Is this an error, and will it be added for proposal submission?

Answer: This has been added and the new product is CLIN 405.

105. The industry standard for compression is 20–30 mmHg. Will you consider changing or allowing 20–30 mmHg in place of 18–30 mmHg for CLIN 404, and if a 20–30 mmHg closed-toe, below-the-knee option is added as a CLIN?

106. There is no Economic Price Adjustment (EPA) clause included for a potential 10-year contract. Over the past five years, the cost of manufacturing goods has fluctuated significantly. Would the government consider adding an EPA clause?

Answer: No.

107. On page 66, section B3.7.2, it states that serial numbers must appear on the outside of the box. Compression stockings are not typically tracked by serial numbers. Can the government clarify which CLINs are required to have serial numbers on the external packaging?

Answer: This information has been removed from the SOW. Please see most recent amendment.

108. To calculate the most accurate and competitive pricing for the government, can yearly estimated volumes or historical quantities for each CLIN be provided?

Answer See Attachment: “Ortho Softgoods Quantity Data.pdf” for estimated

109. Will the DLC provide sales tracings to the manufacturer?

110. Will the Prime Vendors be permitted to participate and order directly from the DLC?

Answer: Awarded Prime Vendors will receive orders and provide product to the DLC.

111. For the 400-series CLINs, the options listed (short, regular, tall, and full calf) could result in more than 200 SKUs per CLIN. Does the government intend for these sizing options to be included only as available alternatives for clinicians when standard sizes do not fit, or should the bid include all sizing options in both colors (short, regular, tall, and full calf)?

Answer: All should be included

112. Will the government consider removing the phrase “23% spandex/elastic component” from CLINs 405–412? The percentage of spandex/elastic component varies depending on material blends and the amount required to achieve the prescribed level of graduated compression for each size or length.

113. CLIN 415: Will the clinical team consider reviewing a rigid donning device? The benefits of a rigid design include:

• Easy cleaning and sanitizing without laundering

• Greater accessibility for Veterans with limited mobility (no need to lean over)

• Simplified setup for independent use

• Increased stability during donning (does not collapse like fabric aids)

• Availability in two sizes (standard and large for calf sizes over 16 inches)

• Made in the USA

114. The NAICS code listed on page 97 appears to be incorrect. Can the government confirm or clarify the correct NAICS code?

Answer: The correct NAICS code is 339113. The solicitation has been revised.

115. When asked to provide item location/page number, is that the page number on file 36S79725R0002+Orthotic+Softgoods+and+Prosthetic+Supplies? Example: CLIN 022 is on page 33 of 139.

Answer: This is in the updated Price Schedule, Column G, Please list where the item and page number of where in your proposal the information for this item is contained.

116. Can we submit both email and flash drive?

Answer: No. Vendors must submit their electronic version of the proposal by email OR by VA approved flash drive, but not both. Reference - E.2 SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS TO

OFFERORS REGARDING PROPOSAL PREPARATION.

117. What email address is bid to be submitted to?

Answer: brandy.hudson@va.gov – Solicitation has been amended. Reference E.2.1.3

GENERAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS.

118. Who can we contact for the VA provided flash drive?

Answer: Brandy Hudson brandy.hudson@va.gov

119. Are we able to bid more than one item per CLIN?

Answer: Yes, bids can be submitted for more than one item and there is no set limit.

mailto:brandy.hudson@va.gov

120. Do we fill out the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan or does the government? Is it done with the solicitation or after the contract is awarded?

Answer: The QASP is filled out by the government It is used by the government and Contracting Officer's Representatives (CORs), to ensure that the contractor's performance complies with the terms of the contract.

121. Do we fill out the Contract Discrepancy Report or does the government? Is it done with the solicitation or after the contract is awarded?

Answer: The CDR is filled out by the government, specifically by the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). The purpose of the CDR is to formally notify the contractor of any identified discrepancies, provide an opportunity for the contractor to correct the issues, and document the actions taken to resolve the discrepancies. This occurs after contract award.

122. Product Detail Attachment: does it need to be filled out and submitted with the solicitation or after the contract is awarded?

Answer: No, this occurs Post Award

123. If the product detail attachment is to be submitted with the solicitation:

Where do I find the DLC Naming Guidance?

What is the difference between column 8 Unit Price and column 11 Contract Price?

Answer: This will be done post award, the naming guidance just cannot exceed 30 characters. Typically, the Program Specialist and the Logistics Management Specialist will work with the vendor (post award) to determine the name of the product and how it will appear in ROES. The unit price is the cost of the item and contract price is the final price we pay after SLA fees are adjusted in.

124. Is there any previous incumbent contract for this RFQ ? If so, what is the dollar value of the contract?

Answer: Sam.gov has awarded contract information available to the Public.

125. On CLIN 404, 409 and 410 you state 18-30mmHg in the technical minimum requirements. The industry standard is 20-30mmHg for these products. Do you require 18- 30mmHg?

Answer: Updated the MTRs - CLINs 404,405, 409 and 410 to reflect the desired compression to be 20-30 mmHg.

126. (CLIN 404, 409 and 410) Do you prefer poly bags or boxes for compressional stockings?

Using poly bags is definitely a cost saver for the VA.

Answer: No preference, however would like low volume packaging to reduce shelf space requirements and environmental waste while protecting and maintaining the integrity of the product.

127. (CLIN 404, 409 and 410) You state Need Total: 2 products. Can you elaborate?

Answer: Total products needed will be the total products VA intends to award by CLIN. Vendors may propose more than one item. This does not refer to one each or pair designation.

128. (CLIN 404, 409 and 410) Can you define minimalist packaging?

Answer: Low volume packaging to reduce shelf space requirements and environmental waste while protecting and maintaining the integrity of the product.

129. Are all orders delivered to the DLC in Denver?

Answer: Yes

130. Is preference given to made in USA versus made in a free trade country?

Answer: The Buy American statute applies to the small business tiers, and the BAS includes a preference for domestic-made products. For the large business tier, the TAA applies, and VA will not prioritize U.S-made products over products from designated countries

131. Is the VA willing to clarify whether a manufacturer may submit a proposal while one of its authorized distributors also submits an offer for the same product line? Specifically, from the VA’s perspective would this create any conflict of interest or risk of rejection for either party if both bids are on the same CLINs.

Answer: All interested parties may submit a proposal. No, we don’t perceive there to be a conflict of interest or risk or rejection.

132. To support competitive pricing and prevent inflated freight assumptions, could the VA confirm whether previous orthotic softgoods contracts primarily shipped to the Denver Logistics Center or directly to VA Medical Centers?

Answer: All orders are delivered to the Denver Logistics Center (DLS)

133. If an offeror has more than one product that fully meets all Minimum Technical Requirements for a single CLIN, would the VA prefer:

• that only one product be submitted per CLIN, or

• that multiple fully compliant product options be submitted to give VA facilities greater flexibility?

• Additionally, if multiple product options are not preferred, would the VA find it more beneficial for an offeror to instead provide a broader range of sizes for a single product under the CLIN (as long as all MTRs are met)

Answer: Bidders can propose on more than one item per CLIN

134. To ensure more accurate and competitive pricing, without requesting guaranteed quantities, can the VA provide general guidance on past shipment patterns under similar contracts?

Specifically, if available, can the VA share general historical information such as:

(a) Were orders typically shipped as single-unit orders to individual facilities, small batch shipments (e.g., 5–20 units), or larger consolidated palletized shipments (e.g., 50+ units) to distribution centers like Denver?

(b) Whether any historical ordering ranges or approximate annual quantities per CLIN (not commitments) can be shared to help offerors establish realistic freight and pricing assumptions?

135. For CLIN 300 (L3923 – Hand Finger Orthosis, Thumb Spica), the Minimum Technical Requirements state that the product must include “palmar and dorsal stays that are removable/malleable.” However, based on current PDAC-approved products for L3923, Thumb Spica orthoses typically include only thumb support stays and do not include palmar or dorsal hand stays.

To ensure accurate compliance and product submission:

i. Can the VA confirm whether the MTR description for CLIN 300 is correct as written?

ii. If so, is the VA requiring a design beyond the standard PDAC-defined configuration for L3923 devices?

iii. Or should the requirement be interpreted as thumb stays only, consistent with PDAC-listed products under this code?

iv. For reference, we reviewed a significant number of active PDAC listings under L3923 and did not find products that include both palmar and dorsal stays as described.

Answer: Correct. Updated CLIN 300 to state " Thumb stay/support that is removable/Malleable"

136. On page 55, section B.3.7.2, it states that serial numbers must appear on the outside of the box. Compression stockings are not typically tracked by serial numbers. Can the government clarify which CLINS are required to have serial numbers on the external packaging?

Answer: This is not needed and has been removed from the SOW.

137. Serial numbers as applicable to the product (Chargers). The serial number must be scannable by DLS scanning equipment via barcode or QR code. Please provide details regarding the DLS scanning equipment used for reading barcodes or QR codes. Specifcally, what barecode or QR code formats and sizes are compatible? Are there any requirements regarding the placement or data structure of the serial number to ensure it is scannable by DLS equipment?

Answer: This is not needed and has been removed from the SOW.