The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is soliciting quotes for the procurement of one GE Healthcare LOGIQ e R9 Systems Ultrasound Machine, which will be used at the Sheridan VA Medical Center. This is a Request for Quote (RFQ) identified by solicitation number 36C25924Q0649, with submissions due by 2:00 PM Mountain Time on September 20, 2024. The RFQ is set aside exclusively for small businesses.
The ultrasound machine must meet specific criteria, including a minimum 14” full touchscreen, two active probe ports, and wireless capabilities for real-time imaging. The equipment is intended to enhance ultrasound-guided vascular access for veterans, thereby reducing reliance on community care. Important requirements include new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) products, completion of the Buy American Certificate, and adherence to various federal provisions during the submission process. The government will evaluate quotes based on price and compliance with requirements.
Potential bidders must email their quotes (only) to the designated contact, Marc Del Valle, as fax or hand-carried submissions are not accepted. Queries must be submitted in writing by September 18, 2024. This procurement reflects the VA's commitment to providing essential medical services while reinforcing support for small businesses in government contracting.
The document outlines the "Buy American Certificate," a provision requiring Offerors to certify that their end products are domestic, except for specified foreign items. It mandates that Offerors list foreign products produced in the U.S. that do not qualify as domestic, along with their domestic content percentage, unless they are Commercially Available Off-The-Shelf (COTS) items. Additionally, Offerors must specify domestic end products containing critical components. The Government will evaluate offers based on the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) guidelines. This provision underscores the government's commitment to promoting domestic manufacturing and ensuring compliance with federal sourcing policies, thereby supporting domestic industry through its procurement processes.
The document outlines the justification for a simplified acquisition procedure to procure a GE LOGIQ e ultrasound machine, with a focus on sourcing from small businesses. An analysis revealed nine Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) under the relevant NAICS code, and a further search indicated two authorized distributors: Trillamed, LLC (SDVOSB) and Alko Enterprises, Inc. (a Native American-owned business). Both vendors are positioned to offer competitive pricing, emphasizing the government's goal to support small enterprises. The acquisition is deemed a legitimate need for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and purchasing has been approved following federal acquisition regulations (FAR). The document asserts the viability of setting aside the procurement for small businesses to achieve best value for the government, thereby reinforcing the commitment to ensure equitable opportunities for small business participation in federal contracts.