The IHS Parker Indian Health Center in Parker, Arizona, requires contracted services for emergent laboratory (STAT) and blood testing to support its emergency and inpatient departments. Due to the laboratory's lack of capacity to perform all necessary STAT tests, the facility seeks a nearby laboratory capable of delivering test results swiftly—ideally within one hour of specimen collection. The testing includes critical procedures such as ammonia, cardiac markers, therapeutic drug levels, and blood compatibility assessments for transfusions, such as ABO/Rh testing and crossmatching. The blood and products must be maintained at appropriate temperatures and utilized promptly to avoid expiration. The inability to obtain these services could lead to significant challenges, including costly patient transfers or, worse, potential loss of life. Thus, this requirement underscores the vital need for efficient testing services to uphold patient care standards at the health center.

The Indian Health Service (IHS) seeks self-certification from Offerors under the Buy Indian Act, confirming they qualify as "Indian Economic Enterprises" for solicitation responses, including Requests for Information (RFI) or contracts. The certification must be maintained at the offer submission, contract award, and throughout contract performance. If eligibility changes, the contractor is obligated to notify the Contracting Officer. Contracting Officers may require documentation of this eligibility before awarding contracts, with provisions for protests on questionable eligibility. Successful Offerors must also register with the System of Award Management (SAM). Legal repercussions for providing false information are outlined, highlighting the seriousness of compliance. The document emphasizes the need for correctly representing Indian ownership to meet the Buy Indian Act’s requirements for federal grants and RFPs.

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking potential sources for emergent STAT Laboratory and blood testing services for the Parker Indian Health Center in Arizona, as outlined in a Sources Sought Notice. This initiative falls under the NAICS code 621511 for medical laboratories, with a budget of $35 million. Interested vendors must comply with the Buy Indian Act, prioritizing Indian Economic Enterprises (IEEs) and Indian Small Business Economic Enterprises (ISBEEs). Vendors must provide relevant information, including company details and a capability statement demonstrating their qualifications. This notice serves as a market research effort rather than a formal request for quotes, aimed at ensuring compliance with federal regulations and determining appropriate set-asides. Interested firms must possess active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) database and must self-certify their IEE status. The IHS aims to gather responses to decide if there’s a reasonable expectation of obtaining multiple offers from qualified enterprises. Attachments include the scope of work and a representation form for confirming IEE status. The response deadline is set for March 14, 2025, at 2 PM (MST).