6515--Walkasins Lower Limb Sensory Prosthesis System - Notice of Intent to Sole Source

INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE

The Department of Veterans Affairs, VHA Regional Procurement Office Central, Network Contracting Office 10, intends to enter into a sole source procurement for ten (10) demo units of the Walkasins Lower Limb Sensory Prosthesis system for the Functional Neuroimaging, Cognitive & Mobility Laboratory, University of Michigan, located at Domino s Farms, Lobby B, Suite 1200, 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. The Department of Veterans Affairs intends to award a sole source, firm-fixed price purchase order to RxFunction, Inc., 7576 Market Place Drive, Eden Prairie, MN 55344. The associated North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code is 339113 Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing, and the Business Size Standard is 800 Employees.

The Walkasins Lower Limb Sensory Prosthesis system is a non-invasive leg sensory prothesis used to replace nerve function. It works by detecting and signaling foot pressure sensations to aid in gait and balance. The device is especially helpful for individuals with neuropathy, gait disturbances, and imbalance. The device is wearable and consists of a module that goes around the ankle and receptor sole that is inserted at the sole of shoe. The sole transmits plantar pressure while the module creates stimuli that communicates with the nervous system to improve balance. Individuals with Parkinson disease (PD) experience higher levels of freezing of gait (FoG) and imbalance which impact overall quality of life. Use of the Walkasins may improve overall gait and balance and quality of life for individuals with PD. It is the Government s belief there is no other device available on the market that provides the same stimulation as the Walkasins. The Walkasins is manufactured and solely distributed by RxFunction, Inc.

This notice satisfies the requirement at FAR 5.201(b)(1) to publicize the proposed contract action. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals or quotes. Interested parties may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement. A determination not to compete this requirement, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government.

Interested persons may identify their interests and capability to respond to this requirement no later than 5:00 PM Eastern Time, Friday, June 23, 2023. Any response to this notice must show clear and convincing evidence that competition would be advantageous to the Government. Supporting evidence must be furnished in sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to meet the subject requirement. This information shall be provided at no cost or obligation to the Government.

Interest/capability statements shall be submitted to Jeffrey Rozema via e-mail at jeffrey.rozema@va.gov. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted.