JnA VCS approved_Redacted.pdf

This is a Justification and Approval (J&A) document for a sole source acquisition by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to procure two (2) Vitreoretinal Cataract System Unity (VCS) consoles for the Ophthalmology Department at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. The specific item being acquired is the ALCON UNITY VCS VLPT-2 (Serial Number 900484665). The VCS console is specialized ophthalmic surgical equipment designed for anterior segment phacoemulsification and posterior segment pars plana vitrectomy procedures, featuring Intelligent Fluidics Functionality that maintains consistent Intraocular Pressure during surgery while enabling higher average vacuum during lens removal.

The VA justifies the sole source procurement under 41 USC §3304(a)(1), citing that Alcon is the only manufacturer offering both anterior and posterior surgical capabilities in a single machine, and that space constraints at the medical center prevent installation of multiple different brands. Market research conducted through SAM.gov, ADDS-UP, FPDS, SBA.VetCert, and an RFI (36C256Q0440) posted on March 3, 2026, yielded only one response from an authorized Alcon distributor. The CO determined the anticipated cost to be fair and reasonable, with trade-in value offered for existing equipment. The acquisition is designated as unrestricted to maximize competition for future procurements, with no small business set-aside applicable. The Contracting Officer, Oney E. Kelly (CAT HOU/NCO 16), certified the justification on March 18, 2026 (Acquisition Plan Action ID: 36C256-26-AP-2437).