J065--Intent to Sole Source: VISN 1 Ethicon NeuWave Microwave Ablation Service Contract

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking approval for a sole source contract with Ethicon to maintain three NeuWave Microwave Ablation Systems at West Haven, Togus, and West Roxbury VA Medical Centers. The contract includes a base plus four-year service agreement, totaling approximately $252,807.00. Due to the complexity and proprietary nature of the equipment, only Ethicon has the necessary expertise and authorization to perform maintenance, making other service providers unqualified. The acquisition justifies the use of other than full and open competition under 41 USC §3304(a)(1). The document confirms that maintaining these systems is critical for high-quality patient care, and outlines the market research, showing that no other sources can fulfill these requirements. It also indicates plans to post an intent to sole source on SAM.gov, anticipating no challenges to the procurement strategy. The submission concludes with necessary certifications from involved officials confirming the validity and necessity of the requirements outlined. This document illustrates the VA's commitment to ensuring compliant, high-standard healthcare delivery through specialized equipment maintenance.

The Department of Veterans Affairs intends to award a sole-source contract to Ethicon US LLC for the provision and maintenance of three Ethicon NeuWave Microwave Ablation Systems. This contract will include a base agreement plus four years of service. The procurement falls under the authority of FAR Part 13.106-1(b), focusing on negotiating with a single source due to the specific requirements of the products. The solicitation number for this contract is 36C24125Q0343, with responses due by April 18, 2025, at 5:00 PM EST. While the government is soliciting inputs from other potential providers who believe they can meet the requirements, this does not constitute a competitive proposal request. Interested parties should submit relevant documentation to the designated point of contact, Kurt Fritz, to help the government assess market capabilities. The primary NAICS code associated with this procurement is 811210. This notice serves to inform stakeholders of the intent to proceed without a competitive bidding process unless warranted by responses received.