DnF for OTFOC_IDEXX (Redacted).doc

DETERMINATION & FINDINGS FOR OTHER THAN FULL & OPEN COMPETITION

(ACTIONS SAT AND BELOW)

1. DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED PROCUREMENT: Blood smear sample analysis services from IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

2. PROPOSED CONTRACTOR/MANUFACTURER:

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

One IDEXX Drive

Westbrook, Maine 04092

CAGE: 0USV5

UEID: UJTGU4PX3DN8

Business Size: Other than Small Business

3. ESTIMATED TOTAL VALUE: $[REDACTED]

4. STATUTORY AUTHORITY PERMITTING CONTRACTING WITHOUT PROVIDING FOR FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION: The statutory authority permitting sole source is 41 USC 1901(e), implemented by FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i):

X Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements

5. JUSTIFICATION FOR THE AUTHORITY CITED ABOVE:

The item(s) listed in section one above is available from only one source and competition is precluded for reasons indicated below. There are no substitutes available.

X Experimental Continuity: The item(s) must be consistent with prior materials in order to ensure experimental continuity. Describe the conditions that necessitate the use of experimental continuity:

The Biological & Biotechnology Sciences (BBS) Division seeks to collaborate with IDEXX Reference Laboratory for blood sample analysis in support of [REDACTED] project. This partnership will enhance BBSD’s pathological data analysis capabilities. IDEXX Reference Laboratory provides a comprehensive range of sample analyses for both veterinary and research applications. For our study, IDEXX will perform complete blood count and lymphocyte analysis on our samples, with all results validated by a certified pathologist. The head pathologist at IDEXX has developed a tailored procedure specifically for our study needs.

Our collaborators at the Tri-Service Research Laboratory (TSRL), part of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) currently work with IDEXX for blood sample analysis. To ensure continuity and validity of our experimental results, IDEXX is the sole provider capable of delivering the required pathological data analysis for our team.

IDEXX blood sample analysis is distinctive/unique due to several key factors:

1. Certified Pathologists: IDEXX employs board-certified clinical pathologists, including those accredited by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP), who bring a high level of expertise and accuracy in analyzing and interpreting blood samples.

2. Customized Procedures: IDEXX tailors their analysis procedures to meet the specific needs of individual research projects. This customization ensures that the methods used are best suited to the unique requirements of the study.

3. Comprehensive Analysis: IDEXX offers extensive blood analysis services, including complete blood counts, lymphocyte classification, and detailed morphological assessments. Their ability to perform in-depth analysis and provide thorough data interpretation sets them apart.

4. Established Protocols: IDEXX follows rigorous and standardized protocols to ensure consistency and reliability in their results. This is crucial for maintaining experimental validity and continuity across different studies.

5. Collaboration with Leading Labs: IDEXX's established collaborations with prominent research institutions, such as the Tri-Service Research Laboratory (TSRL), highlight their reputation and reliability in providing high-quality pathological data analysis.

6. Advanced Technology: IDEXX utilizes state-of-the-art technology and equipment for sample analysis, which contributes to their ability to provide precise and accurate results.

7. Expert Consultation: IDEXX offers expert consultation services, including data interpretation and biological significance analysis, to support researchers in understanding and applying their findings effectively.

Other vendors, such as Charles River Laboratories, have the capability to analyze blood and other tissue samples, however IDEXX is the only vendor that has offered a customized procedure for our specific study requirements. Additionally, the use of another vendor for this tissue analysis would invalidate all the data collected and sent by our team as it would no longer be comparable to the data collected from AFRL and analyzed at IDEXX. Failure to procure the collaboration with IDEXX will detrimentally impact this research due to less accurate data resulting in project setbacks and limitations associated with having to divert significant time and resources to adjusting protocols to accommodate the shortcomings of an alternate source of sample analysis. Further, the negative cost incurred of accommodating a solution other than IDEXX could be as high as $[REDACTED]. Because of such price, IDEXX is the most logical partner for the Government.

Market research was conducted by [REDACTED], a Biomedical Researcher in FCDD-RLA-HC with three years of experience, from February 2, 2024, to May 1, 2024. The research methods included reviewing government-required sources, vendor websites, company catalogs, and consulting with subject matter experts within both government and industry. The findings from this market research indicate that IDEXX Reference Laboratory is the sole company capable of fulfilling the government's requirements. IDEXX Reference Laboratory is essential for ensuring experimental continuity, and there are no authorized resellers available.

6. FAIR AND REASONABLE PRICE DETERMINATION:

It has been determined that the anticipated cost to the Government will be fair and reasonable and that approval of this recommendation is in the best interest of the government. This justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Template last updated 4/23/2018