The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Network Contracting Office 10, intends to negotiate a sole source contract for ALBAcyte Red Blood Cell Reagents, specifically with Alba Bioscience Inc. This action, guided by FAR Part 6.302-1, indicates that only one source can fulfill the requirements, justifying the sole source procurement. The contract will be fixed price without option years, covering various items including ALBAcyte A1, A2, and B cells, among others. Responses to this notice must demonstrate compelling evidence that competition is beneficial, though no solicitation package is provided. The deadline for responses is set for September 23, 2024, at 2:00 pm EST. The intent to proceed without open competition underscores the specific capabilities of Alba Bioscience Inc. as essential for meeting the VA's needs effectively. The contact person for this notice is Contract Specialist Lonnelle Jones.
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking to establish a five-year contract with Alba Bioscience Inc. for the supply of red blood cell reagents at the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center. This acquisition is vital for the Blood Bank Department, as it involves specialized testing for blood typing and compatibility assessments essential for patient transfusions. The reagents listed are exclusively from Alba Bioscience due to their unique quality and the requirement for controls that avoid repeated validations from other sources. The contract is justified under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) allowing limited sourcing when only one vendor can meet the needs effectively. The inquiry showed no other vendors could provide the required reagents. The estimated delivery date is October 1, 2024. This sole-source procurement underscores the urgency and necessity of maintaining patient care standards without causing delays that could impact healthcare delivery. The justification document complies with all applicable regulations, including those surrounding the Federal Supply Schedule program.