Q--Laboratory Testing and Courier Service

The VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Tacoma, WA intends to negotiate a sole source temporary contact with Interpath Laboratory. The place of performance for this service is Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center, Walla Walla, WA. The statutory authority allowing use of other than full and open competition for this requirement is FAR 13.106-1 and FAR 13.5 and specifically 13.501 under Simplified Acquisition Procedures Commercial Items Test Program, as is commensurate with the counterpart FAR Part 6.302-1 Only One Responsible Source, and FAR Part 6.302-2 Unusual and Compelling Urgency. This action is required due to urgent need to keep these vital service requirements met, since the most recent contract expired on March 31, 2011. This is a six (6) month, "Emergency-Stop Gap" contract, and includes the option to extend services IAW FAR 52.217-8 up to an additional six (6) months. This emergency contract will provide critical services during the solicitation and award process for the long term contract. The anticipated date for the posting of the solicitation for the long term contract is, 1 October 2011; and the anticipated date of award is 1 November 2011. The contractor shall provide all reference laboratory tests services and laboratory testing and transport (courier) of VA specimens from the Community Based Outpatient Clinic locations to the Core Lab in Walla Walla WA. Contractor shall provide courier services of VA laboratory specimens from the Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC), presently in Yakima Washington, Richland Washington, La Grande Oregon, Lewiston and Grangeville Idaho. Enterprise, Oregon and Boardman, Oregon will be added with the Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VAMC to the Walla Walla, Washington laboratory site at least daily, Monday through Friday except Federal Holidays and by request of the Walla Walla Core Lab or the CBOC for training days, all other changes must be through the Walla Walla Core Lab Manager. Couriers shall provide services according to IATA transportation regulations. Specimens shall be transported according to Time and Temperature requirements (Room Temperature, Refrigerated and Frozen). A justification for other than full and open competition is prepared in support of this acquisition. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. Applicable NAICS code 621511. **PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS NOTICE**