Parasitological collection & transportation kits

The County of Orange Health Care Agency is conducting a competitive bid solicitation for Parasitological Collection & Transportation Kits for its Public Health Laboratory located in Santa Ana, California. The procurement involves eight specific laboratory testing supply items, including CON-Trate kits, Immunocard STAT! EHEC tests, funnels, surfactants, and other specialized collection and transportation supplies. This is a fully electronic solicitation, with bids accepted only through the County's online bidding system, and covers jurisdictions including Orange County and San Francisco City. The procurement timeline is structured with key dates: release on January 8, 2025, questions due by January 14, 2025, and bid submissions due January 22, 2025, all by 4:00 pm. The proposed contract period will run from February 1, 2025, through January 31, 2028, with potential two-year renewal options. Bidders must provide detailed pricing, demonstrate capability for emergency next-day drop shipments, and establish standing order capabilities for laboratory supplies. The contract requires vendors to maintain comprehensive notification procedures for backorders and deliver items directly to the OC Health Care Agency Public Health Laboratory.

The solicitation includes specific set-aside provisions and preferences for local and disadvantaged businesses. Bidders must be certified with the California Department of General Services as a Small Business and/or Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE), with a requirement to maintain principal operations within Orange County. The County has implemented Local Small Business (OCLSB) and DVBE preference policies to support local enterprises. While the total contract value is currently marked as to be determined (TBD), the contract structure allows for a firm fixed-fee arrangement with restrictions on price increases. Specifically, no price increases will be considered during the first contract year, and subsequent adjustments require documented proof of cost increases and 30 days' advance written notice. The contract includes an interesting provision for a 2% administrative rebate on sales to additional governmental or non-profit entities through cooperative purchasing arrangements. The County reserves the right to make multiple awards, reject any bids, and negotiate final contract terms to serve its best interests, providing flexibility in the procurement process.