Barton-carey provides compression garments with a high degree of customization that is crucial for optimal patient outcomes for patients with complex burns and scars.

The University of New Mexico is seeking to procure custom compression garments from Barton-Carey for its PT Wound Care and Burn clinics and OT hand clinic under a proposed sole-source purchase, with proposals due July 23, 2026. This is a sole-source procurement justified on the basis of Barton-Carey's proprietary customization capabilities and established standard-of-care status since 2012.

UNM determined that Barton-Carey's degree of customization — including full-body coverage options and full color customization — is unique and necessary for optimal patient outcomes in managing complex burns and scars, particularly among pediatric populations where color customization improves adherence. The university conducted extensive web searches for alternative vendors and found no competitors offering equivalent customization depth. Barton-Carey's established ordering processes are integrated into current workflows; switching vendors would require creation of new ordering procedures and reassessment of existing patients, resulting in unnecessary appointments and potential care disruptions in a capacity-constrained system.

The contract term is three years including renewals consistent with New Mexico Procurement Code. The total contract value is $186,000 over the three-year period. The procurement was approved by Jeffrey Gilmore on June 22, 2026 and submitted by Lauren Pacho Shaeffer, Director of Outpatient Rehab Services.

Pursuant to New Mexico Procurement law, the completed sole-source justification form (60-H6901-26-CP259_062226) is posted on the UNM Sunshine Portal and the State of New Mexico Procurement website for a 30-day review period prior to purchase authorization. Questions are due by July 23, 2026.