66--Reagent rental agreement for Ventana Benchmark Ultra Automated IHC and ISH staining system.

The Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VISN 6 Centralized Acquisition Service intends to negotiate sole source procurement with Ventana Medical Systems. This proposed contract action is for reagents used by the existing Benchmark Ultra Automated IHC and ISN Staining System located at the Salem VAMC. The reagents are required for histology and preparation of surgical pathology cases for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with one source under the statutory authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(1) as implemented by FAR 6.302-1. Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirement. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE QUOTES and no solicitation will be issued; however, any firm that believes it can meet these requirements may give written notification to the Contracting Officer. Supporting evidence must be furnished in sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to comply with the above requirements. Information may be sent to the Contracting Office, VA Medical Center, 27 Averill Avenue, Hampton, VA 23667. Responses are due by 6/26/09 at 12:00 PM EST. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.