How to respond to the VA Phoenix inventory management system RFI

What the VA is researching

The VA Phoenix Healthcare System is gathering information about a fully automated, weight-based system for managing medical and surgical supplies. The anticipated setup includes about 3,571 scales, 26 software licenses, controllers, storage equipment, installation, training, and support. Final quantities may change.

The system must connect with VA’s inventory software through an HL7 interface and have an approved VA IT Authority to Operate at the time of offer. This is an RFI for market research and planning, not a contract opportunity or solicitation.

Deadline and what it means

The RFI was published October 22, 2026. The response deadline is November 2, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.

Responses are for planning purposes. They are not offers and cannot be accepted to create a contract. The VA may issue another RFI, a solicitation, or another announcement after reviewing responses.

Who this opportunity may suit

This RFI may interest firms that provide automated inventory systems, weighing and control devices, healthcare supply management software, or related installation and support services. The identified NAICS code is 334519, Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing, with a small-business size standard of 600 employees.

Vendors should be able to address the system’s connection to VA’s Generic Inventory Package in VistA, interoperability validation, and VA IT approval requirements.

How to access the RFI

Click “View original source” on the portal to open the opportunity. If the first click takes you to the portal homepage, click it again to go to the bid.

A free account may be needed to view documents, though some bids are available without one.

Prepare a useful RFI response

Describe your system and relevant experience clearly. Explain how it handles weight-based inventory, reporting, replenishment, varying product sizes, and compatibility with existing storage. Address the required HL7 connection to VA’s inventory software and the VA IT approval requirement directly.

Give practical information about implementation, installation, training, support, and any pricing or delivery information you choose to provide for planning. Separate confirmed capabilities from assumptions, and identify proprietary information you want handled accordingly.

Because this is market research rather than a solicitation, use your response to help the VA understand your capabilities and the market. The notice says responders are responsible for their own response expenses.