Fully automated chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) system for DSHS Laboratory

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is requesting bids on a fully automated chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) system for the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Laboratory, with bids due August 11, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. Central Time, and questions due by July 28, 2026.

The scope encompasses one new, fully automated random-access CLIA system capable of performing hepatitis A, B, and C serologic testing at estimated annual volumes of approximately 87 HAV Total Antibody, 63 HAV IgM, 1,071 HBc Total, 651 HBc IgM, 1,182 HBsAb, 1,477 HBsAg, 22 HBsAg Confirmatory, and 2,755 HCV Antibody tests. The contractor must provide reagent kits, controls, consumables, software, and instrumentation; retain instrument ownership; and assume full responsibility for installation, validation, training, maintenance, and technical support. Service includes at minimum one preventative maintenance visit annually, unlimited repair and parts replacement, online technical support 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and unscheduled service response within 48 hours. The contractor must assist with integration to the laboratory's LabWare LIMS system and provide onsite training. Pricing must be submitted as firm, fixed prices covering all equipment rental, reagents, consumables, service, and maintenance.

The initial contract term runs September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2027, with three optional one-year renewals through August 31, 2030 and one potential extension of up to one year. Performance is at the Department of State Health Services, 1100 W. 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756. Bidders must demonstrate minimum three years of relevant experience and submit three verifiable references for similar contracts completed within the last three years. Insurance requirements include Workers' Compensation, Commercial General Liability ($1 million per occurrence), Commercial Automobile Liability ($1 million combined single limit), Professional Liability ($1 million), and Umbrella Liability ($1 million). Responses to questions will be posted July 31, 2026. Mandatory submissions include completed Exhibits A (HHS Solicitation Affirmations), C (Pricing Sheet), and D (Bidder Reference Form). Vendors new to the HHS system must submit Exhibit F (TIN application).