6835--VISN 23 - Airgas Medical Cylinder Gas Bridge Contract Saint Cloud / Black Hills VA Healthcare 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), specifically Network Contracting Office 23, intends to award a single-source bridge contract for medical cylinder gases and related services to ensure uninterrupted supply for the Saint Cloud and Black Hills VA Healthcare Systems within VISN 23. This planned award is estimated at $99,521.50.
Scope of Work
The requirement includes the provision of:
- Bulk and cylinder oxygen (USP)
- Medical air (USP)
- Nitrogen (NF)
- Carbon dioxide (USP)
- Helium and specialty medical gases
- Cylinder leasing, exchange, filling, and distribution services
- Emergency and routine medical gas delivery across VISN 23 facilities.
Contract Details
- Type: Planned Single-Source Bridge Contract (Justification for Single Source Award)
- Estimated Value: $99,521.50
- Set-Aside: None specified (N/A for single source justification)
- Justification Effective Date: November 15, 2024
- Notice Published: January 26, 2026
- Contracting Activity: Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office 23 (36C263)
Justification for Single Source
The decision to pursue a single-source award is based on the incumbent contractor's unique qualifications. The incumbent possesses existing cylinder inventory, DOT certifications, established delivery routes, facility access, and integrated equipment. These factors make them the only capable source for immediate, zero-transition continuity of critical medical gas supplies. Transitioning to a new vendor would necessitate extensive, time-consuming activities that cannot be completed before the current contract expires, posing a risk to patient care.
Market Research
Market research was conducted, including queries on SBA VetCert, GSA eLibrary, FPDS, and SAM.gov. While some searches yielded results, no alternative suitable sources were identified that could meet the specific requirements for this bridge contract without service interruption.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Emanuel Nevarez, Contracting Officer, at emanuel.nevarez@va.gov or (320)255-6354.