6515--Audiometers in support of the VISN 23 VAHCS

This is a Notice of Intent published in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 5.101(a)(1) requiring the dissemination of information regarding proposed contract actions. This Notice of Intent is for a proposed award of a sole source delivery order under the Federal Supply Schedules (FSS) to the following contractor for Audiometers in support of VISN 23 VA Midwest Healthcare Network, 2805 Dodd Road, Suite 250, Eagan, MN 55121: Natus Medical 50 Commerce Dr, Suite 180 Schaumburg, IL 60173 This is done under authority of 41 U.S.C. 152 (3) and 40 U.S.C. 501, as implemented by FAR 8.405-6 (a)(1)(i)(B): Only one source is capable of providing the supplies and services required at the level of quality required because the supplies or services are unique or highly specialized. This is not a request for competitive quotes. Market research revealed that Natus Medical is the proprietary developer and sole service provider for the Audiometers currently being utilized by VISN 23 VA Midwest Healthcare Network. Additionally, Natus Medical is the creator and Original Equipment Manufacturer of the Madsen Astera 2 audiometer systems and furthermore, owns the proprietary maintenance rights for this equipment. Thus, it is impossible for any other company to provide maintenance for this equipment as Natus Medical has sole rights and does not allow for authorized resellers, authorized dealers, or third party maintenance vendors to provide such services. Any other entity besides Natus Medical providing this service would result in violation of these proprietary rights and voiding of any equipment warranties, as applicable. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this service is 334510 (Electromedical and Electrotherapeutic Apparatus Manufacturing) and the Product Service Code (PSC) is 6515 (Medical and Surgical Instruments, Equipment, and Supplies). While this synopsis does not constitute a solicitation, interested vendors may identify their interest and capability to satisfy the requirement, including documentation from the proprietary rights holder Simplex Grinnell that such contractor could provide this service as an authorized reseller, authorized dealer or third party. All responsible sources may submit a capability statement, which shall be considered by the agency by e-mailing such statement and supporting documentation to Marie Weathers, Contracting Officer, at marie.weathers@va.gov. No phone calls please. Please indicate Response to LSJ Audiometers in subject line of e-mail. Such documentation will be reviewed solely for the purpose of determining whether or not to conduct the procurement on a competitive basis. A determination not to compete this requirement, based upon responses to this notice, is solely within the discretion of the Government under authorities cited above.