6640--Blood Bank Immunohematology Analyzer 5 YR BPA

Notice of Intent to Sole Source Requirement

The Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Healthcare System, NCO 10 intends to negotiate a sole source FSS-BPA under FAR Part 8. The VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, MI requires a BPA for blood bank immunohematology system for automation on FSS in accordance with FAR 8. However, the purchase will include the following open market reagents:

0.8% Affirmagen (2 x 10 mL)

0.8% RESOLVE Panel A (11 x 3 mL)

0.8% RESOLVE Panel B (11 x 3 mL)

0.8% Selectogen (2 x 10 mL)

ORTHO CONFIDENCE SYSTEM

COOMBS CONTROL 1X10ML

SURGISCREEN 3X10ML

AFFIRMAGEN 2X10ML

In accordance with FAR 8.402(f), it is allowable to add open market items to a FSS procurement if it meets the requirements under this section. This is the notice to the GPE for the open market portion that will be included in the sole source FAR 8 award.

These reagents are used with the Ortho Vision that will be on the FAR 8 award. The Ortho Vision is compatible with the laboratory s existing manual ID-MTS-Gel system/technology (Secondary method) and VA owned equipment currently in use. Both systems use the same reagent and consumables. With a primary emphasis on employee safety, standardization, and sensitivity, the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System relies on this system for ease of use, quicker turnaround times and best standardization of veteran care. All staff is trained and fully competent with the gel methodology versus the learning curve and restructuring with other methodologies. Local hospitals within proximity to the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System also use Ortho Vision. This is a benefit because if supply chain issues affect delivery schedules, we can share reagents and supplies from the same vendor. This bridges the time delay and continues quality care for our veterans. The work with CERNER has been ongoing for 2 years and Ortho Vision is currently being set up as a default build in CERNER Millennium. Switching off the Ortho Vision would require a medium amount of rework to ensure the Cerner build is set to accept those results. The transition to CERNER Millennium, would benefit from the continued use of Ortho gel methodology and would be a cost savings for the government.

The associated NAICS code for this procurement is 334516. The vendor will be Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics Inc., 100 Indigo Creek Dr., Rochester, NY 14626.

A firm fixed price FSS-BPA with four (4) option years is anticipated and shall be awarded. It is the Government's belief that only the proposed candidate possesses the required capabilities to successfully meet this requirement. It is the Government's intention to solicit and negotiate with only this source.

This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. It is not a solicitation or request for offers. No solicitation package is available. Any response to this notice must show clear and convincing evidence that competition would be advantageous to the Government. Responses must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, June 2, 2023.

Kellie Konopinski

Contracting Officer

(734) 222-4330

Kellie.Konopinski@va.gov