6640--Brand Name or Equal Molecular Diagnostic Systems
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Network Contracting Office (NCO) 17, is conducting a Sources Sought for market research to identify qualified sources capable of providing four (4) Brand Name or Equal Molecular Diagnostic Testing Systems and accessories. The VA North Health Care System requires these systems for molecular testing at four locations within the Texas Valley Coastal Bend Healthcare System. The intent is to award a Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) contract for equipment equivalent to the Cepheid GeneXpert Express System. Responses are due by April 15, 2026, at 1:00 pm EST.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for four FDA-cleared, fully automated Molecular Diagnostic Testing Systems capable of identifying pathogens via DNA/RNA using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) techniques. Key features include a self-contained cartridge, closed cartridge technology, bi-directional interface with LIS and VistA via Data Innovations, and a test menu covering COVID-19, Influenza, RSV, Strep A, GI Panel, and Chlamydia/Gonorrhea, with results available within one hour. The systems must include UPS, monitor, scanner, printer, technical support, customer training, and a business hours service plan. Specific Cepheid models (GXIV-4-TSK, GXXVI-16-D-10C, GXIV-4-CLIA) are specified as brand name or equal for various locations in Harlingen, McAllen, Laredo, and Corpus Christi, Texas.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Anticipated Contract Type (if awarded): Firm-Fixed Price (FFP)
- NAICS Code: 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing), Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 Employees
- Product Service Code: 6640 (Laboratory Equipment and Supplies)
- Response Due: April 15, 2026, 1:00 pm EST
- Published: April 1, 2026
- Delivery: Within ten (10) business days after receipt of award.
- Warranty: Standard commercial warranty including unlimited technical support, remote access, repairs, 2-day onsite response, and annual preventive maintenance.
Eligibility & Submission
Interested vendors must be registered in SAM.gov with the appropriate NAICS code. SDVOSB/VOSB offerors must be verified in the SBA database. Potential set-asides for SDVOSB/VOSB may apply. Submissions must be sent via email to kathryn.prose@va.gov and include the organization's Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), proof of capability, and answers to specific questions regarding socio-economic category, manufacturer/distributor status, Trade Agreement Certificate, existing government contracts, small business status (13 CFR 121.406(b)), subcontracting plans, and estimated delivery information.
Additional Notes
This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to award a contract. No award will be made from this announcement. The information provided is subject to change. Contractors will not have access to VA systems or Protected Health Information (PHI).