6525--Portable Ultrasounds (VA-26-00062440)

Quick Summary

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically Network Contracting Office (NCO) 17, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought Notice for Portable Ultrasound Systems. The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Healthcare System (VATVCBHCS) requires ten (10) Portable Ultrasound Systems (Android application) with Linear Array transducers, carts, and tablets for use in Pain, Medicine, and Primary Care services at its Harlingen, TX facility. These systems will facilitate injections (e.g., Platelet Rich Plasma), dry needling, and patient care evaluation. The purpose of this notice is to gather information to define the procurement strategy for a future solicitation. Responses are due by May 29, 2026, at 10:00 AM Central Time.

Scope of Requirement

The requirement is for 10 complete portable ultrasound systems, each comprising:

• Portable Transducer (Linear Array): Must display depth to 30 cm, have a 34.5mm field of view, and be suitable for superficial, soft tissue, and MSK exams. Features include color Doppler, live streaming, B-line quantification, 2D mode, Pulse Wave Doppler, and advanced image optimization (sonoCT, THI, Xres, auto SCAN). It should be handheld (108g/3.8 oz, 11.4 cm x 4.5 cm x 4.5 in) and include a storage bag.
• Cart with Tablet: A lightweight, ISO 9001:2015 certified cart designed to accommodate accessories and up to two transducers/gel bottles, with a supply caddy and single tab extension cord. It must mount a tablet for stable viewing and be mobile on four wheels. The tablet (10.12" x 6.64" x 0.27", 1.06 lb) must display transducer information, clinical options, depth, gain settings, battery status, and support full-screen mode. It must come preloaded with VA-approved image guidance software, including guided B-lines, live ultrasound, voice communication, and up to 14 customized presets.

Contract & Timeline

• Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
• Purpose: To establish sources and define the procurement strategy (e.g., set-aside, sole source, unrestricted) for a future solicitation.
• Response Due: May 29, 2026, 10:00 AM Central Time.
• Published: May 20, 2026.
• Place of Performance/Shipping: VA Harlingen Healthcare Center (HCC), 2601 Veterans Drive, Harlingen, TX 78550. Shipping and receipt of equipment estimated 30 days from award.

Eligibility & Submission Requirements

• Set-Aside: No specific set-aside is designated at this market research stage. The VA is particularly interested in determining the availability of Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)/Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) or other Small Business manufacturers or authorized distributors. Responses will help determine potential set-asides.
• Manufacturing: The VA is interested in items manufactured in the United States.
• Distributors: Must provide proof of authorized distributorship; gray market items are not accepted.
• Submission Content:
  • Business Name, Address, Point of Contact (Name, Phone, Email)
  • SAM Unique Entity ID (UID) Number
  • NAICS code (334510)
  • Business Size (SMALL/LARGE) and Type (SDVOSB, VOSB, 8A, HUBZone, WOSB, etc.)
  • Letter stating OEM authorized dealer, distributor, or reseller (if applicable)
  • GSA/FSS Contract Number (if applicable)
  • Estimated market research pricing.
• Submission Method: Responses should be sent to Michelle Cunningham at michelle.cunningham@va.gov.

Additional Notes

This is not a request for competitive quotes. Responses will be evaluated to inform the government's procurement strategy.