The Department of Veterans Affairs is planning to release a solicitation for an optical services contract, titled "VISN 1 Optical IDIQ," specifically set aside for Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses. The contract will be for the fabrication of eyeglasses and optician services across all VA hospitals and outpatient clinics within the VISN 1: VA New England Healthcare System. The government intends to award a five-year, firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery, and indefinite-quantity contract, indicating a clear need for these optical services over an extended period. The solicitation is expected to be released within three to six weeks from the date of the notice, and vendors will have approximately 30 days to submit their proposals. This notice emphasizes the importance of staying updated with any amendments, as the government will not maintain a mailing list, and failure to acknowledge amendments may lead to proposal rejection. The total value of the contract is not specified, but with multiple locations listed, it suggests a significant opportunity for optical service providers within the SDVOSB category.
The purpose of this solicitation is to establish a firm fixed price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for the provision of eyeglasses and optician services to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) New England Healthcare System. The selected contractor will supply all necessary personnel and materials to manufacture prescription eyewear and provide optician services at various VA medical centers within VISN 1 from January 28, 2025, to January 27, 2030.
The contractor is responsible for delivering eyeglasses within five business days of receiving prescriptions and purchase orders. Moreover, they must ensure high-quality service, including a minimum one-year warranty on all products. An array of lens options, frame styles, and eyewear accessories are required, along with adherence to FDA and ANSI standards.
Contractors must provide well-trained, licensed opticians, maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations, and ensure timely communication related to orders and potential backorder scenarios. Payment will be processed on a per-order basis, and multiple reports, including weekly and monthly summaries of orders and patient satisfaction, are required to ensure accountability and performance monitoring. This solicitation reflects the VA's commitment to delivering quality eye care services to veterans while fostering compliance and quality assurance within contracted services.
The document outlines a request for proposal (RFP) from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to establish a firm fixed price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for the provision of prescription eyeglasses and optician services for veterans within the VA New England Healthcare System (VISN 1). The contractor will be responsible for providing all necessary personnel, equipment, and materials for eyeglasses, which must adhere to specific quality standards and delivery timelines. Key elements include a five-year ordering period commencing on January 28, 2025, and a guarantee of timely delivery and product quality.
The contract stipulates compliance with various regulations, including HIPAA, and mandates quality assurance reporting to ensure service levels are met. Optician services will be provided at designated VA facilities, with contractors expected to maintain adequate inventory and staff licensed opticians. Payment is contingent on the submission of accurate invoices for completed services, and the contractor is also tasked with ensuring the adherence to federal, state, and local safety codes.
This RFP emphasizes the VA's commitment to ensuring veterans receive high-quality optical services while maintaining regulatory compliance, service accuracy, and timely delivery.