Eastern Kansas Healthcare System Special Mode Transportation
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) is conducting market research for the Eastern Kansas Healthcare System (EKHCS) to identify qualified small businesses capable of providing Special Mode Transportation services. This Sources Sought Notice aims to inform future acquisition decisions for non-emergent assisted transportation for eligible beneficiaries. The VA is specifically seeking capabilities from Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB), 8(a), HUBZone, and other Small Businesses. Responses are due April 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for 24/7 transportation services utilizing various vehicle types, including wheelchair vans, stretchers, bariatric vehicles, and sedans. Services will cover destinations such as VA and non-VA medical facilities, Veteran domiciles, and other authorized locations, primarily within Kansas, with some trips originating or terminating in Missouri.
Key Requirements & Capabilities
- Vehicles: Must meet Kansas/Missouri DOT safety standards, feature functional HVAC, clean interiors/exteriors, wheelchair lifts (800-lb capacity), proper securement systems, seatbelts, safety equipment, and GPS tracking.
- Operations: Contractors will manage transportation requests via the VA VetRide portal, provide 24/7 monitoring, and execute scheduled and same-day transports, including nights, weekends, and holidays. This includes confirming Veteran appointments and managing wait times and cancellations.
- Personnel: Drivers and attendants must meet EKHCS qualifications, including background checks, DOT drug testing, medical fitness, and specific training (first aid, defensive driving, patient handling). They must wear uniforms, carry VA contractor IDs, and provide "through-the-door" assistance.
- Patient Handling: Responsibilities include securing patients with restraints, handling bariatric and spinal cord injury patients, assisting at transportation hubs, protecting patient privacy (HIPAA, Privacy Act), and complying with infectious disease protocols.
- Quality Control: Maintain a quality control program, cooperate with VA monitoring, report incidents, and submit detailed invoices reconcilable to VetRide manifests.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research (Government intends to award a Requirements-type Firm-Fixed-Price contract with Economic Price Adjustment (EPA) in the future).
- Set-Aside: Open to Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSB), 8(a), HUBZone, and other Small Businesses.
- Response Due: April 13, 2026, 10:00 AM Central Time.
- Published: March 25, 2026.
Submission Information
Responses should include comprehensive company information, size status, relevant experience, proposed quality control programs, and a detailed statement of capability. Specific questions regarding business structure, subcontracting plans, and existing federal contracts are included in the notice.
Important Notes
This is solely a market research effort; it is NOT an invitation for bid, RFQ, or RFP. The Government does not intend to award a contract based on this notice, and respondents will not be reimbursed for costs incurred. No phone calls will be accepted; direct inquiries to Steve Parrott (Stephen.Parrott@va.gov).