99 -- Medicare Part B Standard System

CMS intends to extend for two years the current contract with Electronic Data Systems (EDS) on a non-competitive basis for the Medicare Part B Standard System. The responsibilities of the contractor include the development of the MCS system as the Part B Standard System, transitioning all of the Part B contractors to the MCS system and maintaining the system. The proposed modification will be for optional periods through December 31, 2005. This sole source modification is being conducted pursuant to the authority of 41 U.S.C. ? 253(c)(1), as implemented by FAR 6.302-1, that only one responsible source and no other type of supply or service will satisfy agency requirements. EDS is currently in the process of transitioning all the Medicare Part B contractors to the MCS system. In order to meet CMS?s minimum needs, it is imperative that CMS have a contractor that has total knowledge of the Part B Standard System, and can transition the Medicare Part B contractors in a reasonable amount of time. This is a notice of intent and not a request for quotations. No solicitation is available. Businesses that recognize and can provide the required service described above must provide supporting evidence. The Government will consider all responses received within ten days of the date of publication of this synopsis. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed acquisition based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.