Intent to Procure Sole Source

The VA Mid-Atlantic Healthcare Region (VISN 6) Centralized Acquisition Service intends to procure sole source with Third Wave Molecular Diagnostics, 502 South Rosa Road, Madison, WI 33719 for HCV genotyping equipment rental and reagents for the VA Medical Center in Durham, NC. This is the only known source capable of providing reagents compatible with Roche COBAS TaqMan 48 amplicons HCV PCR assay utilizing signal amplification technology. NAICS Code 325413 applies to this procurement. The proposed contract action is for supplies and equipment for which the government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement or submit quotations. This notice of intent is not a request for quotations. Interested parties that believe they can meet these needs must supply information about their capabilities no later than 4:00 p.m. EST January 5, 2005. All information shall be furnished at no cost or obligation to the Government. This award will be made using simplified acquisition procedures. No solicitation will be made available. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. The anticipated award date is January 7, 2005. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Telephone or faxed inquires will not be accepted.