The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is conducting market research (Sources‑Sought) to identify vendors capable of providing a comprehensive histology staining workflow system—including two IHC stainers, two ISH stainers, two special stainers, an integrated specimen‑tracking solution, and a full suite of reagents, consumables, and maintenance services. The solicitation outlines strict physical dimensions, throughput, automation, and IT‑integration requirements (VISTA, Cerner, Data Innovations), as well as 24/7 technical support, preventive maintenance, and an uptime guarantee of 98 %. Vendors must also be able to supply continuous inventories of reagents and comply with HIPAA and VA data‑security mandates.
• Equipment: 2 × IHC, 2 × ISH, 2 × special stainers plus a specimen‑tracking system; size ≤ 44×33×62 in (IHC/ISH) and ≤ 20×24×51 in (special).
• Performance: ≥ 30 slide positions, ≥ 35 reagent positions, up to 60 slides/8 hr (120 with overnight), barcode and HL7 integration, 98 % uptime guarantee.
• Services: 24 × 7 technical assistance, on‑site repair M‑F 8 am‑4:30 pm, emergency repair ≤ 24 hr, preventive maintenance within 2 weeks of due date, training, and ongoing software upgrades.
• Contract period: 1‑year base (02 Jan 2027‑31 Jan 2028) with up to four optional one‑year extensions.
• Eligibility: Open to all vendors, with special encouragement for SDVOSB/VOSB firms.