Q n A attachemnt 2 HIV Syphilis IFB 5-1.docx

This document is a Questions and Answers (Q&A) attachment for the Illinois Department of Public Health's (IDPH) Invitation for Bid (IFB) number 25-482DPH-OFCDI-B-47043 for Hepatitis HIV/Syphilis 4th Generation Assay Screening and Instrument. The IFB seeks a comprehensive diagnostic testing solution with a single instrument capable of processing multiple assays, including Hepatitis B antigen and antibody, Hepatitis C antibody, HIV-1/HIV-2 antigen and antibody, and Syphilis antibody testing. The estimated annual test volumes are approximately 3,300 Hepatitis B tests, 3,000 Hepatitis C tests, 13,200 HIV tests, and 11,000 Syphilis tests. Vendors must submit electronic bids through the BidBuy system by April 28, 2025, with all questions due by April 29, 2025, at 2:00 pm. The contract will have an initial five-year term with the potential for up to five additional years of renewal.

The Q&A attachment clarifies key contractual requirements, including that service and vendor-performed maintenance are to be included in the instrument rental cost, and the assay must detect total antibodies for Hepatitis B core antigen. The procurement includes specific vendor requirements such as providing FDA-approved test kits with at least six months of shelf life, maintaining bi-directional interface capabilities with IDPH's laboratory information management system, and complying with various state procurement regulations. Subcontracting is not permitted, and all services must be performed in the United States, with a preference for US-manufactured items. Vendors must have an active registration in the Illinois Procurement Gateway and may be eligible for tax credits related to hiring qualified veterans and ex-offenders. The contract will be awarded to the lowest-priced responsive and responsible bidder, with the bid remaining firm for 180 days from opening.