Bid guide
How to bid on RespirAct RA-MR Blood Gas Control System for VA Boston
What the VA is buying and why it matters
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) intends to award a sole-source contract for a RespirAct RA-MR blood gas control system. This system is an MRI-compatible respiratory blood gas delivery device used in research to precisely target and control PCO2 and PO2 in spontaneously breathing patients.
This equipment is for the Research and Development Service at the Boston-Jamaica Plain Health Care System. While the VA plans to award this to a specific vendor, interested businesses can still make their case.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This notice was published on September 11, 2026. The deadline for interested parties to contact the contracting specialist is September 25, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET.
By this deadline, you should submit your response if you believe you can provide the required system. The contracting officer will then decide whether to proceed with a competitive procurement based on the responses received.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is for businesses that can supply a RespirAct RA-MR blood gas control system or an equivalent system that meets the described technical specifications. The VA states that Thornhill Research Inc. is the exclusive producer and distributor of the RespirAct RA-MR system.
Firms specializing in professional medical research equipment, especially respiratory and blood gas control systems, would find this relevant. Your firm should be able to demonstrate that it can meet the specific requirements for an MRI-compatible system that controls PCO2 and PO2 in spontaneously breathing patients.
How to respond to this notice
To respond, you must contact the Contracting Specialist via email at [email protected]. This is a pre-solicitation notice, not a formal solicitation, so your communication should focus on demonstrating your capability to provide the required system.
You can view the original source document by clicking the “View original source” link on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. A free account may be needed to view documents, but often is not.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Even for a sole-source intent, your response should clearly outline how your company can meet or exceed the stated technical specifications. Provide detailed information about your product, including its features, capabilities, and how it compares to the RespirAct RA-MR system.
Focus on demonstrating that your company is a responsible source capable of fulfilling the agency's requirements. Include any relevant past performance or certifications that support your ability to deliver such specialized research equipment. Be concise and direct in your communication with the contracting specialist.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Veterans Affairs, Department of; the original posting controls.