Sources Sought (Buy-Indian): CSU Chemistry Analyzer Lease (CPT)

The Indian Health Service (IHS) Billings Area office has issued a sources sought notice to identify potential contractors for a chemistry analyzer lease arrangement using a cost-per-test model for the Crow-Northern Cheyenne Hospital's CSU Laboratory in Crow Agency, Montana. This market research initiative seeks to procure a comprehensive chemistry analyzer lease that includes the equipment, reagents, maintenance, repair services, and 24/7 technical support for a laboratory that performs over 90 different medical tests including drugs of abuse, general chemistry, therapeutic drug monitoring, and immunoassays. Interested vendors must demonstrate their capability and experience through detailed capability statements that directly address the specific requirements outlined in the statement of work, as generic responses will be considered non-responsive. The evaluation will focus on contractors' proven experience with similar requirements, relevant past contract performance, and their ability to provide the comprehensive services described. All responses must be submitted via email to Kenneth.Nicholson@ihs.gov by July 11, 2025, at 3:00 PM MDT, and must include the completed Buy Indian Act Indian Economic Enterprise Representation Form.

This opportunity is designated as a Buy Indian Act set-aside, specifically targeting Indian Small Business Economic Enterprises (ISBEEs) and Indian Economic Enterprises (IEEs) that can demonstrate Indian ownership and control of management and daily operations. The contract structure includes a 12-month base period with four additional 12-month option years, potentially spanning up to five years total. The laboratory estimates processing approximately 10,000 cost-per-test procedures monthly, indicating substantial contract value over the performance period. Key technical requirements include providing an FDA-approved chemistry analyzer with at least 110 reagent/diluent positions, automatic sample detection capabilities, and compatibility with existing laboratory management software. The contractor must maintain equipment at 95% operational status and provide emergency repair services within 24 hours, ensuring minimal disruption to critical hospital laboratory operations. No incumbent contractor or specific budget range has been disclosed in this preliminary market research phase.