PRE-SOLICITATION NOTICE OF INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Network Contracting Office (NCO 21) intends to award a sole
source, firm fixed price contract to OUT-FIT, A CALIFORNIA CORP for a Computerized Balance Assessment and Training System. The procurement is on behalf of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration, Regional Procurement Office West (RPOW), Network Contracting Office (NCO) 21, on behalf of VA Northern California Health Care System.
The Biodex Balance System SD was selected by VANCHCS as this product meets the Salient Characteristics for maximum size (Dimensions 30 W × 44 D × 74 H (76 cm × 112 cm × 188 cm), given the location available for set-up and use of the equipment.
Sources Sought Notice 36C26126Q0783 was issued to Contract Opportunities (SAM.gov) as a Brand Name or Equal, Full and Open, on 06/03/2026, with a response due date of 06/08/2026. One response was received Offering an alternative product, the Bioness Integrated Therapy System (BITS) and BITS Balance device.
According to VANCHCS, the Bioness Integrated Therapy System is not an equal product. Per the subject matter experts, These are essentially two different systems with little overlap. The Biodex Balance System SD is primarily designed for objective static and dynamic balance assessment and fall risk screening, with integrated safety rails/handles and validated testing protocols that provide standardized, measurable balance outcomes. Its compact footprint also makes it suitable for smaller clinic spaces like Chico. In contrast, the Bioness BITS is primarily a touchscreen based cognitive, visual motor, and engagement system, with optional motion sensor balance activities, but does not provide physical safety supports or true force plate balance assessments. The Biodex is the safer, clinically appropriate choice for balance assessment and training, while BITS is centered on cognitive and visual motor therapy.
Given the results of the market research, this requirement will be sole sourced to the Out-Fit, A California Corp; which has been identified as the sole authorized distributor of the needed items. A Sources Sought Notice failed to identify any alternative and acceptable products and/or sources that meet the requirements of the procurement.
The specific items required are as follows:
ITEM INFORMATION
ITEM NUMBER
DESCRIPTION OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES
QUANTITY
UNIT
0001
1.00
Ea
Balance System SD, 15.6" Display, 115 VAC
Includes Printer, printer stand and CTSIB Indexed Pad.
Contract Period: Base
POP Begin: 06-30-2026
POP End: 09-13-2026
PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 339112 Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing
PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: 6515 Medical and Surgical Instruments, Equipment, and Supplies
MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER (MPN): 950-440
0002
1.00
Ea
Step Stool, Balance System SD
Contract Period: Base
POP Begin: 06-30-2026
POP End: 09-13-2026
PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 339112 Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing
PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: 6515 Medical and Surgical Instruments, Equipment, and Supplies
MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER (MPN): 950-306
0003
1.00
Ea
Packaging and Handling - to include shipping crate, protective packing materials, palletizing, handling, and transportation fees
Contract Period: Base
POP Begin: 06-30-2026
POP End: 09-13-2026
PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 339112 Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing
PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: 6515 Medical and Surgical Instruments, Equipment, and Supplies
MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER (MPN): Freight
VA s Gray Market Items terms and conditions apply pursuant to VAAR 852.212-71 Gray Market Items and VAAR 852.212-72 Gray Market and Counterfeit Items. As a result, vendor shall be an OEM, authorized dealer, authorized distributor or authorized reseller for the items identified to be eligible for participation with this acquisition. Vendor must be able to provide the documentation that demonstrates such aforementioned authority.
The solicitation for this action will be posted to beta.sam.gov and all responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation, which shall be considered by the agency. After consideration, the Government will determine whether to proceed with the sole source acquisition. Please keep in mind that patient care and choice in the decision is the highest priority to the VA. The solicitation will be posted on or about June 17, 2026.
Please respond to Tawnya Krommenhoek at tawnya.krommenhoek@va.gov no later than Monday, June 22, 2026 at 10:00 am Mountain Standard Time. With your response, please provide evidence showing compliance with the aforementioned Gray Market clauses. Failure to provide the required information may result in a determination that your company is not a viable source.
(End of Notice)