Audiology Equipment Accessories and Supplies

The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is seeking bids for audiology equipment, accessories, supplies, and repair services through solicitation KK21-01-O. The procurement targets hearing aids, ear molds, and associated accessories from multiple manufacturers including GN ReSound, Oticon, Sivantos, Sonova, Starkey, Unitron, Widex, and several other authorized distributors. Bidders must submit percentage discounts from current manufacturer price lists, with complete documentation showing product details, list prices, discount percentages, and net prices. Key requirements include being an original manufacturer or authorized distributor with at least two years of experience in audiology equipment, service, and repair capabilities. Mandatory bid specifications require F.O.B. Destination Freight Prepaid pricing, with contractors bearing all transportation costs and risk of loss. Critical deadlines include bid questions due by September 28, 2020 at 2:00 PM Milwaukee local time, with final bids due October 8, 2020 at 2:00 PM, and a bid opening at 2:45 PM the same day via conference call. The contract will run from May 1, 2021 through June 30, 2023, with options for three additional one-year renewals.

The solicitation includes preferences for Minority Business Enterprises and Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses, each eligible for up to 5 percent preferences under Wisconsin Statutes. Bidders must complete a Business Associate Agreement to comply with HIPAA regulations and must provide a minimum three-year manufacturer warranty. Each binaural hearing aid order must include a free battery charger and an additional free accessory valued at a minimum of $100. The State of Wisconsin offers no guaranteed minimum purchase quantities or dollar amounts, and UWM reserves the right to cancel the contract for various reasons including non-appropriation of funds or contractor non-compliance. Pricing must remain firm for 60 days from bid opening, with any price increase requests limited to fully documented cost increases submitted 30 days prior to contract renewal. While no specific contract value is listed, the procurement is designed to support the UWM Audiology Group's hearing evaluation and affordable hearing aid services in Southeastern Wisconsin. Successful contractors must be prepared to integrate with existing clinic operations and comply with strict regulatory and performance standards.