D -- VMS Part B and DMEPOS Standard Claims Processing System Software Maintenance Services

CMS intends to extend for three years the current contract #500-01-0007 with ViPS, Inc on a non-competitive basis for the combined software maintenance of the VMS Part B and Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) standard claims processing systems. Responsibilities of the maintenance contractor include: data and computer software mapping, coding and implementing Medicare operational and policy determinations and enhancements, writing and testing Medicare Part B and DMEPOS software, developing and presenting Medicare Part B and DMEPOS technical training classes, providing help desk support on Medicare Part B and DMEPOS software maintenance and transition activities, supporting Medicare Part B and DMEPOS transaction processing and providing Medicare programming support activities. The proposed modification will be for optional periods through 9/30/06. 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. The VMS Part B system is proprietary to VIPS and HCFA has limited rights to the Part B system. In order to fulfill CMS's minimum needs, both the VMS Part B system and the DMEPOS system must be maintained by the same contractor to avoid duplicative costs and ensure the accurate implementation of policies and directives necessary for the administration of the Medicare program. 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.