Loren Data's SAM Daily™

SAMDAILY.US - ISSUE OF NOVEMBER 20, 2019 SAM #6565
SOURCES SOUGHT

Q -- Health Physics Services

Notice Date

11/18/2019 6:14:47 AM
 

Notice Type

Sources Sought
 

NAICS

541690 — Other Scientific and Technical Consulting Services
 

Contracting Office

241-NETWORK CONTRACT OFFICE 01 (36C241) TOGUS ME 04330 USA
 

ZIP Code

04330
 

Solicitation Number

36C24120Q0056
 

Response Due

11/22/2019 8:59:59 PM
 

Archive Date

12/22/2019
 

Point of Contact

John Shawkiissa.shawki@va.gov
 

E-Mail Address

Issa.Shawki@va.gov
(Issa.Shawki@va.gov)
 

Awardee

null
 

Description

THIS SOURCES SOUGHT/REQUEST FOR INFORMATION IS ISSUED FOR INFORMATION AND PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT CONSIDERED A SOLICITATION.The purpose of this sources sought/RFI is to gain knowledge of potential businesses that are capable of providing the following:1. GENERAL: This is a non-personnel services contract to provide Health Physics Services. The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein. Such contract service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn is responsible to the Government. 1.1 Description of Services/Introduction: The Contractor, a.k.a. Consulting Physicist, shall furnish all labor, material, supplies, equipment, and qualified personnel to provide on-site diagnostic Qualified Medical Physics support; and on-site and off-site Health Physics Services for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Boston Healthcare System (BHS), under the terms and conditions defined in this Performance Work Statement, except for those items specified as government furnished property and services. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract, and must adhere to VHA Handbook 1105.04, Fluoroscopy Safety, dated July 6, 2012 (or most current), VHA Handbook 1105, Management of Radioactive Materials, dated February 5, 2015 (or most current), and VHA Directive 1129, Radiation Protection For Machine Sources Of Ionizing Radiation dated February 5, 2015 (or most current). Additionally, the Contractor shall comply with radiation protection standards in 29 CFR 1910.1096 and immediately report any unsafe conditions with the potential to adversely impact the facility radiation workers or patients to the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO), and to the individual responsible for the equipment. A Fault Report shall be placed on equipment that is found unsafe to use, with the reason for the condition. 1.2 Background: For purposes of this contract, the term Contractor/Consulting Physicist is an individual(s) with offices nearby VA Boston Healthcare System (BHS) facilities; and capable of ensuring that BHS is compliant with applicable provisions of Title 10 Chapter 20, Title 10 Chapter 35, NUREG-1556, 49CFR, and with other pertinent State and Federal regulations, and with conditions specified in the NHPP Permit. The Contractor shall be familiar with VHA regulations, and practices of other medical licensees in the vicinity of BHS. Work under this contract may be carried out at the Jamaica Plain Campus, West Roxbury Campus, Brockton Campus, Lowell, and/or other Community Based Outpatient Clinics.1.3 Objectives: The Consulting Physicist may provide services including but not limited to the following:Physics testing on x-ray equipmentPerform x-ray machine shielding evaluations and surveysAnnual accuracy tests on dose calibratorsHand held instrument calibrationsSit on the Radiation Safety CommitteeAct as the RSO during temporary leaves of absence of the VA RSOVerify adequacy and integrity of lead apronsAnalyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate training programs in selected radiation safety areas.Provides guidance for the Radiation Safety ProgramReview and conduct annual audits of BHS Radiation Safety Program Provide emergency services to estimate doses from accidents and/or misadministration of radioactive material. 1.4 Scope: The contractor shall provide Health Physics ServicesPeriod of Performance: The period of performance shall be for one (1) Base Year of 12 months and four (4) 12-month option years. The Period of Performance reads as follows:Base FY 2020 Option FY I 2021 Option FY II 2022Option FY III 2023 Option FY IV 20241.6 General Information1.6.1 Quality Control The contractor shall develop and maintain an effective quality control program to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-recurrence of defective services. 1.6.3 Recognized Holidays: New Year s Day Labor DayMartin Luther King Jr. s Birthday Columbus DayPresident s Day Veteran s DayMemorial Day Thanksgiving DayIndependence Day Christmas Day1.6.4 Hours of Operation: The contractor is responsible for conducting routine business, between the hours of 7:00 and 15:30 Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the Government facility is closed due to local or national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government directed facility closings. For other than firm fixed price contracts, the contractor will not be reimbursed when the government facility is closed for the above reasons. The Contractor must at all times maintain an adequate workforce for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility is not closed for the above reasons. Some equipment testing may require scheduling on back shifts and holidays, so as not to interfere with the clinical operation of the equipment. When hiring personnel, the Contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the workforce are essential. Emergency services shall be available 24/7. 1.6.5 Place of Performance: The work to be performed under this contract will be performed at the Jamaica Plain Campus, West Roxbury Campus, Brockton Campus, Lowell, and/or other Community Based Outpatient Clinics.1.6.6 Type of Contract: The government will award a Firm-Fixed price contract.1.6.7 Security Requirements: Contractor personnel performing work under this contract shall secure all radioactive material they use. 1.6.7.1 Physical Security: The contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding all government equipment, information and property provided for contractor use. At the close of each work period, government facilities, equipment, and materials shall be secured. 1.6.7.2 Lock Combinations and Keys: The Contractor shall not provide lock combinations or keys to areas containing radioactive material to any unauthorized persons. 1.6.8 Special Qualifications: Contractor staff shall meet the requirements of VA Directives and Policies.1.6.9 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation Subpart 42.5. The contracting officer, Contracting Officers Representative (COR), and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the contractor to review the contractor's performance. At these meetings the contracting officer will apprise the contractor of how the government views the contractor's performance and the contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the government. 1.6.10 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The (COR) will be identified by separate letter. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract: perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance: maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract: issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications: monitor Contractor's performance and notifies both the Contracting Officer and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property, and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting order. 1.6.11 Key Personnel: The following personnel are considered key personnel by the government: Qualified Medical Physicist and Certified Health Physicist. The contractor shall provide a contract manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the contracting officer. The contract manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. The contract manager or alternate shall be available between 07:00 am and 15:30 pm, Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the government facility is closed for administrative reasons. 1.6.12 Identification of Contractor Employees: All contract personnel attending meetings, answering Government telephones, and working in other situations where their contractor status is not obvious to third parties are required to identify themselves as such to avoid creating an impression in the minds of members of the public that they are Government officials. They must also ensure that all documents or reports produced by contractors are suitably marked as contractor products or that contractor participation is appropriately disclosed. 1.6.13 Organizational Conflict of Interest: Contractor and subcontractor personnel performing work under this contract may receive, have access to or participate in the development of proprietary or source selection information (e.g., cost or pricing information, budget information or analyses, specifications or work statements, etc.) or perform evaluation services which may create a current or subsequent Organizational Conflict of Interests (OCI) as defined in FAR Subpart 9.5. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer immediately whenever it becomes aware that such access or participation may result in any actual or potential OCI and shall promptly submit a plan to the Contracting Officer to avoid or mitigate any such OCI. The Contractor s mitigation plan will be determined to be acceptable solely at the discretion of the Contracting Officer and in the event the Contracting Officer unilaterally determines that any such OCI cannot be satisfactorily avoided or mitigated, the Contracting Officer may affect other remedies as he or she deems necessary, including prohibiting the Contractor from participation in subsequent contracted requirements which may be affected by the OCI.PART 2DEFINITIONS & ACRONYMS2. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS:2.1. DEFINITIONS2.1.1. CONTRACTOR. A supplier or vendor awarded a contract to provide specific supplies or service to the government. The term used in this contract refers to the prime.2.1.2. CONTRACTING OFFICER. A person with authority to enter into, administer, and or terminate contracts, and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the government. Note: The only individual who can legally bind the government.2.1.3. CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (COR). An employee of the U.S. Government appointed by the contracting officer to administer the contract. Such appointment shall be in writing and shall state the scope of authority and limitations. This individual has authority to provide technical direction to the Contractor as long as that direction is within the scope of the contract, does not constitute a change, and has no funding implications. This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the contract. 2.1.4. DEFECTIVE SERVICE. A service output that does not meet the standard of performance associated with the Performance Work Statement.2.1.5. DELIVERABLE. Anything that can be physically delivered but may include non-manufactured things such as meeting minutes or reports.2.1.6. KEY PERSONNEL. Contractor personnel that are evaluated in a source selection process and that may be required to be used in the performance of a contract by the Key Personnel listed in the PWS. When key personnel are used as an evaluation factor in best value procurement, an offer can be rejected if it does not have a firm commitment from the persons that are listed in the proposal.2.1.7. PHYSICAL SECURITY. Actions that prevent the loss or damage of Government property.2.1.8. QUALITY ASSURANCE. The government procedures to verify that services being performed by the Contractor are performed according to acceptable standards.2.1.9. QUALITY ASSURANCE Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of contractor performance. 2.1.10. QUALITY CONTROL. All necessary measures taken by the Contractor to assure that the quality of an end product or service shall meet contract requirements.2.1.11. SUBCONTRACTOR. One that enters into a contract with a prime contractor. The Government does not have privity of contract with the subcontractor.2.1.12. WORK DAY. The number of hours per day the Contractor provides services in accordance with the contract.2.1.12. WORK WEEK. Monday through Friday, unless specified otherwise.2.2. ACRONYMS: ACOR Alternate Contracting Officer's RepresentativeAFARS Army Federal Acquisition Regulation SupplementAR Army RegulationCCE Contracting Center of Excellence CFR Code of Federal RegulationsCONUS Continental United States (excludes Alaska and Hawaii)COR Contracting Officer RepresentativeCOTR Contracting Officer's Technical RepresentativeCOTS Commercial-Off-the-ShelfDA Department of the ArmyDD250 Department of Defense Form 250 (Receiving Report)DD254 Department of Defense Contract Security Requirement ListDFARS Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation SupplementDMDC Defense Manpower Data CenterDOD Department of DefenseFAR Federal Acquisition Regulation HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996KO Contracting Officer OCI Organizational Conflict of InterestOCONUS Outside Continental United States (includes Alaska and Hawaii)ODC Other Direct Costs PIPO Phase In/Phase OutPOC Point of ContactPRS Performance Requirements SummaryPWS Performance Work StatementQA Quality AssuranceQAP Quality Assurance ProgramQASP Quality Assurance Surveillance PlanQC Quality ControlQCP Quality Control ProgramTE Technical Exhibit PART 3GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICESThe Contractor shall provide all property, equipment and services to perform the Consulting Physicist Services.PART 4CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICESThe Contractor shall provide all items and services to perform the Consulting Physicist ServicesPART 5SPECIFIC TASKSSpecific Tasks:5.1 ROUTINERoutine Service shall normally be reconciled within one week or scheduled mutual consent. Routine Service shall normally be in accordance with current applicable standards. VA may request routine services from the Consulting Physicist including but not limited to the following:5.1.1 PerformanceAll work shall be performed by a qualified diagnostic medical physicist. A qualified diagnostic medical physicist is a person who is certified by the American Board of Radiology, American Board of Medical Physics, or the Canadian College of Physicists in Medicine. For mammography, a qualified medical physicist can have state licensure to perform mammography inspections in lieu of board certification. For diagnostic computed tomography (CT), nuclear medicine, PET, or MRI, a qualified medical physicist can meet the following requirements in lieu of board certification: A graduate degree in physics, medical physics, biophysics, radiologic physics, medical health physics, or a closely related science or engineering discipline from an accredited college or university Formal graduate-level coursework in the biological sciences with at least one course in biology or radiation biology and one course in anatomy, physiology, or a similar topic related to the practice of medical physics Documented 3 years of clinical experience in CT, nuclear medicine, PET, or MRI. The physicist must document the 3 years of experience for the modality being inspected. 5.1.2. Mandatory Services to be Performeda. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall perform imaging equipment (x-ray equipment, CT s, nuclear medicine cameras, PET/CT cameras, and MRIs) inspections to ensure compliance with the current American College of Radiology (ACR) and Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) requirements. Any deficiencies or non-conformances discovered during the inspection shall be verbally communicated to the service supervisor or RSO prior to the qualified diagnostic medical physicist leaving the facility. Deficiencies or non-conformances which represent unsafe conditions with the potential to adversely impact the facility radiation workers or patients shall be reported to the RSO immediately upon discovery and to the individual responsible for the equipment. A Fault Report shall be placed on equipment that is found unsafe to use, with the reason for the condition. A written report of the results shall be provided to the service supervisor or RSO within 30 working days after completion of the inspection. All imaging equipment shall be inspected at least annually, not to exceed 14 months. b. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall perform acceptance testing of all new or relocated imaging equipment prior to first clinical use. The acceptance testing shall comply with ACR or MQSA requirements. Any deficiencies or non-conformances discovered during the inspection shall be verbally communicated to the service supervisor or RSO prior to the qualified diagnostic medical physicist leaving the facility. A fault report shall also be attached to the equipment in question. Deficiencies or non-conformances which represent unsafe conditions with the potential to adversely impact the facility radiation workers or patients shall be reported to the RSO immediately upon discovery. A written report of the results shall be provided to the service supervisor or RSO within 30 working days after completion of the inspection.c. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall oversee inspection of imaging equipment after repairs or modifications that may affect the radiation output or image quality. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall perform a full inspection of imaging equipment after repairs or modifications that may affect the radiation output or image quality. The inspection shall be completed within 30 days hours after the facility contacts the contractor. Any deficiencies or non-conformances discovered during the inspection shall be verbally communicated to the service supervisor or RSO prior to the qualified diagnostic medical physicist leaving the facility. A fault report shall also be attached to the equipment in question. Deficiencies or non-conformances which represent unsafe conditions with the potential to adversely impact the facility radiation workers or patients shall be reported to the RSO immediately upon discovery. A written report of the results shall be provided to the service supervisor or RSO within 30 working days after performing of the inspection.d. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall provide consultation for additional services including but not limited to the following:Physics testing on x-ray equipmentPerform x-ray machine shielding evaluations and surveysAnnual accuracy tests on dose calibratorsHand held instrument calibrationsSit on the Radiation Safety CommitteeAct as the RSO during temporary leaves of absence of the VA RSOVerify adequacy and integrity of lead apronsAnalyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate training programs in selected radiation safety areas.Provides guidance for the Radiation Protection ProgramReview and conduct annual audits of BHS Radiation Protection ProgramProvide emergency services to estimate doses from accidents and/or misadministration of radioactive material. e. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall spot check CT protocols at least annually. f. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall provide shielding design calculations for each new, replaced, or relocated x-ray imaging system. The calculations for each shall comply with the National Council for Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) Report No. 147, and, for dental units, NCRP Report No. 145, and shall be documented in a written report which includes a diagram showing adjacent areas. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall perform a shielding survey to verify the structural shielding was installed per the shielding design report and complies with the design goals. A written report of the shielding survey shall be provided to the RSO within 30 workings days after the shielding survey has been completed.g. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall assist in the development of a comprehensive technical quality assurance (QA) program (e.g., technique charts, repeat/reject analysis monitoring, monitoring of exposure indices to radiographic image receptors, QA program for display monitors, QA for CT, monitoring of dose metrics from fluoroscopy studies), which complies with ACR recommendations, for all modalities. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall review at least annually the QA program. A written report of the results shall be provided to the service supervisor or RSO within 30 working days after performing of the inspection.h. The qualified diagnostic medical physicist shall perform a follow-up inspection to verify compliance of any necessary corrective action performed to correct deficiencies found.5.1.3. Equipment InspectionsThe Contractor shall conduct equipment inspections or quality control surveys of the imaging equipment listed in Attachment 3/Technical Exhibit 3. Attachment A//Technical Exhibit 3 is a living document and equipment will likely be added and removed during the term of the contract. The Contractor shall ensure the imaging equipment s compliance with applicable Federal regulations and ACR recommendations, and shall include, but not be limited to, monitoring the following basic performance characteristics. A. Radiographic and Fluoroscopic EquipmentPhysics inspections of radiographic and fluoroscopic equipment shall comply with the ACR Technical Standard for Diagnostic Medical Physics Performance Monitoring of Radiographic and Fluoroscopic Equipment. The performance of each radiographic and fluoroscopic unit must be evaluated at least annually. This evaluation should include, but not be limited to, the following tests (as applicable). (1) Integrity of unit assembly. (2) Collimation and radiation beam alignment. (3) Fluoroscopic system spatial resolution. (4) Automatic exposure control system performance. (5) Fluoroscopic automatic brightness control performance (high-dose-rate, pulsed modes, field-of-view [FOV] variation). (6) Image artifacts. (7) Fluoroscopic phantom image quality. (8) kVp accuracy and reproducibility. (9) Linearity of exposure versus mA or mAs. (10) Exposure reproducibility. (11) Timer accuracy. (12) Beam quality assessment (half-value layer). (13) Fluoroscopic entrance exposure rate (or air kerma rate). Maximum output and output using a phantom representing a standard size patient for all clinically used settings. [The mode of operation [e.g., magnification mode, frame rate, and any other mode selected) must be documented for each measurement.](14) Fluorographic (image recording) entrance exposure rate (or air kerma rate) for cine imaging, if performed and entrance exposure (or air kerma) for spot images (if performed). Maximum output and output using a phantom representing a standard size patient for all clinically used settings. [The mode of operation (e.g., magnification mode, frame rate, etc.) must be documented for each measurement.](15) Image receptor entrance exposure. (16) Equipment radiation safety functions. (17) Patient dose monitoring system calibration. This includes, for radiographic systems, the metric of dose to the image receptor (IEC Exposure Index or proprietary index) and, for fluoroscopy systems, the displays of cumulative air kerma and, if available, DAP.(18) Display monitor performance. (19) Digital image receptor performance.(20) Grids used with portable x-ray units shall be imaged for uniformity.(21) For radiographic units, measurement of entrance skin exposure (or air kerma) for a standard size patient for common radiographic projections and comparisons to published diagnostic reference levels and achievable doses (e.g., ACR practice parameter.Note: The information on entrance exposure rates (or air kerma rates) from fluoroscopy and from fluorography, in Items (13) and (14) above, for each fluoroscope, shall be in a format suitable for providing to the physicians who operate the fluoroscope.B. Computed Radiography (CR) and Digital Radiography (DR)Physics inspections of CR and DR equipment shall comply with the American Association of Physicist in Medicine (AAPM) Report Number 93, Acceptance Testing and Quality Control of Photostimulable Storage Phosphor Imaging Systems. The performance of CR and DR must be evaluated at least annually. This evaluation should include, but not be limited to, the following tests (as applicable).(1) Component and Imaging Plate Physical Inspection and Inventory.(2) Imaging Plate Dark Noise and Uniformity.(3) Exposure Indicator Calibration.(4) Linearity and Auto-ranging Response.(5) Laser Beam Function.(6) Limiting Resolution and Resolution Uniformity.(7) Noise and Low-Contrast Resolution.(8) Spatial Accuracy.(9) Erasure Thoroughness.(10) Aliasing/Grid Response.(11) IP Throughput.(12) Positioning and Collimation Errors.C. CT ScannersThe physics inspection shall conform to the 2012 ACR Computed Tomography Quality Control Manual. The performance of each CT scanner shall be evaluated at least annually. This evaluation should include, but not be limited to, the following tests (as applicable).(1) Review of Clinical Protocols.(2) Scout Prescription and Alignment Light Accuracy.(3) Image Thickness Axial Mode.(4) Table Travel Accuracy.(5) Radiation Beam Width.(6) Low-Contrast Performance.(7) Spatial Resolution.(8) CT Number Accuracy.(9) Artifact Evaluation.(10) CT Number Uniformity.(11) Dosimetry (the scanner displayed CTDIvol values must be within +/- 20% of the measured CTDIvol values).(12) Gray Level Performance of CT Acquisition Display Monitors.D. DentalThe physics inspection shall conform to the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors (CRCPD), Quality Control Recommendations for Diagnostic Radiography Volume 1 Dental Facilities July 2001. The performance of dental x-ray inspections shall be annually or every 2 years. This evaluation should include, but not be limited to, the following tests (as applicable).(1) Collimation.(2) Beam quality (half value layer).(3) Timer Accuracy and Reproducibility.(4) kVp Accuracy and Reproducibility.(5) mA or mAs Linearity.(6) Exposure Reproducibility.(7) Entrance Skin Exposure Evaluation, with comparison to published diagnostic reference levels and achievable doses (e.g., NCRP Report No. 172).(8) Technique Chart Evaluation.(9) Image uniformity (artifact evaluation).Dental CBCT Acceptance and Performance Testing1. Acceptance Testing. Acceptance testing and measurements of air kerma at the isocenter for each kVp station for a range of clinically used mAs settings will performed initially when the CBCT unit is installed, and following any move of the CBCT to another area inside or outside the initial clinical site. This testing is to ensure that the equipment performance is in agreement with the manufacturer s technical specifications.2. Performance Testing. Each CBCT unit shall undergo periodic quality control tests to insure that the performance of the machine has not significantly deteriorated and is operating within the manufacturer s technical specifications. This performance testing is performed by a qualified expert annually, at intervals not to exceed 14 months, and after repairs to the CBCT unit that may affect the radiation output or image quality. 3. Some manufacturers provide a phantom and procedures to perform machine specific quality assurance (QA) tests. In cases where the manufacturer provides a phantom and procedures to perform specific tests, but the tests are not included in this SOW, then the manufacturer s machine-specific QA tests shall be performed in addition to the QA tests in this SOW.Acceptance and Annual physics testing for Dental CBCT1. Radiation output RepeatabilityMake four measurements of the air kerma at the isocenter at a clinically used setting. The measurements should be less than +/-5% of the average of the five measurements and the measurements should be less than +/- 5% of the previous year s measurement.2. Radiation Output ReproducibilityMeasure the air kerma at the isocenter for each kVp station and a range of clinically used mAs setting. Compare the results to the baseline values established at the initial acceptance testing. The values should be +/-5% of the baseline. 3. kVp AccuracyMeasure the kVp at all clinically used settings. The measured kVp should be +/-5% of the selected kVp.4. kVp RepeatabilityMake five kVp measurements each for two clinically used kVp settings. All measured values should be +/-5% of the mean kVp.5. kVp ReproducibilityMeasure the kVp at all available kVp settings. The measured values should be +/-5% of the baseline.6. Beam qualityMeasure the half value layer (HVL) for aluminum. The minimum shall comply with Section F.4.d of the Suggested State Regulations for Control of Radiation, Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors. 7. Radiation field of view (FOV)Measure the width of the radiation field at the isocenter. The width of the beam should be 3 mm or 30% of the total nominal collimated width.8. Image QualityImage the phantom provided by the manufacturer or another suitable phantom. Assess high contrast spatial resolution, uniformity of transaxial images, and image noise. Imaging uniformity shall be assessed over the entire range of axial images.9. Accuracy of Linear MeasurementsUsing images of an appropriate phantom, assess the accuracy of distance measurements.10. Accuracy of Patient Dose Metric IndicationAssess the accuracy of the indicated dose metric (typically DAP).11. Patient Dose AssessmentFrom a scan or scans using the facility s standard techniques, record the dose metric (typically DAP) and compare to achievable levels and diagnostic reference levels (if available)12. Review of the technical QA programThe qualified expert shall review the technical QA program. The review shall include a trend analysis of the QA data. The results of the technical QA program review shall be included in the written report. Any trends that identify problems shall be included in the report along with recommended corrective actions.13. Display MonitorsPerform a visual analysis of the SMPTE test pattern. Display the test pattern on the imaging console. Set the display window width/level to the manufacturer-specified values for the pattern. Do not set the window/level by eye; doing so invalidates the procedure.Examine the pattern to confirm that the gray level display in the imaging console is subjectively correct.Review the line pair patterns in the center and at each of the corners.Review the black-white transition.Look for any evidence of scalloping (loss of bit depth) or geometric distortion.Use a photometer to measure the maximum and minimum monitor brightness (0% and 100% steps)Measure additional steps within the pattern to establish a response curve.Measure the brightness near the center of the monitor and near all 4 corners (or all 4 sides, depending on the test pattern used).14. Viewing ConditionsAssess the viewing conditions for the area in which the monitor used to evaluation the CBCT studies is located.E. MammographyThe qualified diagnostic medical physicist inspecting mammography equipment must meet the qualifications outlined in the MQSA and shall provide the facility with up-to-date documentation demonstrating the qualified diagnostic medical physicist is MQSA qualified. Inspections of mammography equipment must comply with the latest requirements posted on the ACR Web site for the manufacturer of the digital mammography unit being inspected. Inspection items may include: (1) Mammographic Unit Assembly Evaluation.(2) Collimation assessment.(3) Artifact evaluation.(4) kVp accuracy and reproducibility.(5) Beam quality assessment HVL measurements.(6) Evaluation of system resolution.(7) Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) function performance.(8) Breast entrance exposure, AEC reproducibility, and average glandular dose.(9) Radiation output rate.(10) Phantom image quality evaluation.(11) Signal to noise ratio and contrast to noise ratio measurements.(12) View box luminance and room illuminance.(13) Review Work Station (RWS) tests.F. MRIThe physics inspection shall conform to the 2004 ACR Magnetic Resonance Imaging Quality Control Manual. The performance of each MRI scanner shall be evaluated at least annually. This evaluation should include, but not be limited to, the following tests (as applicable). (1) Magnetic field homogeneity.(2) Geometric accuracy.(3) Inter-slice RF interference.(4) Slice position accuracy.(5) High-contrast resolution(6) RF coil performance.(a) Volume coils signal-to-noise ratio(b) Volume coils image uniformity(c) Volume coils ghosting ratio(d) Phased array coils' signal-to-noise ratio(e) Surface coils signal-to-noise ratio(7) Slice thickness accuracy(8) Low-contrast detectability(9) Soft copy displays(10) Technologist s QC program(11) Site phantom inventory(12) Site RF coil inventoryG. PETThe physics inspection shall conform to the ACR PET Phantom Instructions for Evaluation of PET Image, ACR Nuclear Medicine Accreditation Program PET Module. The performance of each PET scanner shall be evaluated at least quarterly. For PET/CT units the CT must be inspected at least annually per Item C above. This evaluation should include, but not be limited to, the following tests (as applicable). (1) Uniformity.(2) Spatial resolution.(3) SUV analysis.H. Nuclear MedicineThe physics inspection shall conform to the ACR annual performance tests for nuclear medicine cameras. The qualified diagnostic medical physics shall also perform the quarterly testing as outlined by the ACR, as required. The performance of each nuclear medicine scanner shall be at least annually. This evaluation should include, but not be limited to, the following tests (as applicable). (1) Intrinsic Uniformity(2) System Uniformity(3) Intrinsic or System Spatial Resolution(4) Relative Sensitivity(5) Energy Resolution(6) Count Rate Parameters(7) Formatter/Video Display(8) Overall System Performance for SPECT(9) System Interlocks(10) Dose Calibrators (Geometry, if applicable, Accuracy)(11) Thyroid Uptake and Counting SystemsI. Display MonitorsThe annual performance evaluation conducted by the diagnostic medical physicist includes testing of image acquisition display monitors for maximum and minimum luminance, luminance uniformity, resolution, and spatial accuracy. The image acquisition display monitors for nuclear medicine, PET, CT, and MRI units shall be tested.J. Additional RequirementsThe Consulting Physicist conducts radiation protection surveys on each x-ray unit in the institution upon initial installation, annually, and after equipment re-configuration (e.g., after major repairs, upon suspected equipment malfunction, after major modification to equipment location and/or after major modification to structures surrounding the equipment). The Consulting Physicist shall perform evaluations of the measured radiation exposure resulting from the use of the equipment and its compliance with existing regulations. Examination of its location with reference to controlled and uncon trolled areas, and an as sessment of the potential exposure to the environment sur rounding the equipment shall be performed.Initial Survey. Prior to medical use, an initial survey of all new equip ment in cluding a checkout of all routine operating parameters shall be conducted on each x-ray unit before clinical use. Conduction of such a checkout is required of installation person nel, but a qualified medical physicist/ Consulting Physicist shall also perform this procedure prior to clinical use.Resurveys. The above survey should be repeated whenever any major maintenance or repair is performed, or whenever there ap pears to be a major change in the performance of the system.Periodic Routine Surveys. A qualified medical physicist/ Consulting Physicist shall conduct an annual survey of all diag nostic x-ray units in the Medical Center. Included shall be measure ments of skin entry doses using appro priate phantoms. Complete reports shall be submitted to the RSO who shall forward copies to Radiology Service and the Clinical Engi neering Service. The final report shall include skin entry doses for all routine proce dures on each system including photo-controlled measurements plus calculations for all manual procedures based on measurements for each system.The Consulting Physicist conducts and/or reviews shielding evaluations and shielding surveys in accordance with NCRP-147 on each new or refurbished x-ray unit/room in the institution (e.g., prior to initial use and after major modification to equipment location and/or after major modification to structures surrounding the equipment). The Consulting Physicist shall perform evaluations of the measured radiation exposure resulting from the use of the equipment and its compliance with existing regulations. Examination of its location with reference to controlled and uncon trolled areas, and an as sessment of the potential exposure to the environment sur rounding the equipment shall be performed.The Consulting Physicist shall submit a complete report to the Radiation Safety Officer documenting the results of the shielding evaluations and shielding surveys, it is expected that no more than four (4) shielding evaluations and shielding surveys will be performed per year.A Consulting Physicist shall survey all CT SIM Radiology/Oncology equip ment for radiation leakage, outputs, etc., on an annual basis. The Consulting Physicist shall submit a complete report to the Radiation Safety Officer each year and place a calibration sticker on each unit indicating the date the calibration was performed. The scope of this service shall include all radiographic and fluor oscopic equipment in areas such as the Radiology Department, Operating Room, Dental Service, Cardiol ogy Service, Research Service, Gastroenterology, Endoscopy, Urology, and outpatient clinics that have x-ray or fluor oscopic equipment. Annual accuracy tests on dose calibrators shall be performed by the Consulting Physicist. Copies of this report will be sent to the RSO, Clinical Engineering Ser vi ce, and Nuclear Medicine representatives. A calibration sticker shall be placed on each unit indicating the date the calibration was performed.Hand held instruments shall be calibrated by the Consulting Physicist, as required by 10CFR35.61, the license and other guidance (such as HPS and ANSI)a) The Consulting Physicist may be asked to calibrate the survey instruments used to show compliance with 10 CFR Part 20 and Part 35 before first use, annually, and following a repair that affects the calibration. The Consulting Physicist shall:(1) Calibrate all scales with readings up to 10 mSv (1000 mrem) per hour with a radiation source;(2) Calibrate two separated readings on each scale or decade that will be used to show compliance; and(3) Conspicuously note on the instrument the date of calibration on a calibration sticker attached to each instrument.b) The Consulting Physicist may not issue survey instruments if the difference between the indicated exposure rate and the calculated exposure rate is more than 20 percent.c) The Consulting Physicist shall retain a record of each survey instrument calibration, and forward copies of the calibration certificates to the RSO.The Consulting Physicist will sit on the Radiation Safety Committee and support the responsibilities of the RSC as described in Medical Center Memorandum-114-001-LM.The Consulting Physicist may be asked to act as the RSO during temporary leaves of absence and should meet all regulatory requirements of that position.The Consulting Physicist may be asked to verify adequacy and integrity of lead aprons used as PPE against ionizing radiation. The Consulting Physicist shall retain records that verify the adequacy and integrity of lead aprons, and forward copies of the records to the RSO.The Consulting Physicist may be asked to analyze, design, develop, implement, and evaluate training programs in selected radiation safety areas.The Consulting Physicist provides guidance for the Radiation Safety Program, Nuclear Medicine with regards to radioactive equipment, review and conduct annual audits of BHS compliance with federal & state regulations 10CFR20 and CMR 105 and provides expert opinion on the use, disposal, and calculation of radioactive substances. He provides one copy of annual report to RSO.5.2 EMERGENCIESVA may request emergency services of the Consulting Physicist to estimate doses from accidents and/or misadministration of radioactive material. The Consulting Physicist is required to submit 24-hour contact information, and be able to respond to emergency requests in a timely manner, normally within 24 hours. The Consulting Physicist shall respond to requests from.Joseph J. Darman, CHPEngineering Health Physicist/RSOJamaica Plain CampusVA Boston Healthcare System150 South Huntington AvenueBoston, MA 02130Phone: (857) 364-5852Fax: (857) 364-4545Cell: (914) 443-0929joseph.darman@va.gov5.3 OTHER REQUIREMENTS:The Consulting Physicist shall notify the RSO and RSC if they revise their Quality Assurance practices in such a way as to decrease the effectiveness of their program and/or compromises the effectiveness of the BHS radiation safety program. Additionally, the Consulting Physicist shall:apply for, obtain and maintain any certifications required by governing federal, state, or local agencies,participate in performance evaluation programs required by federal, state, or local agencies,comply with the requirements of a written quality assurance program plan,provide VA the current revision of the quality assurance program plan, if requested,provide VA with sufficient QC and calibration data to assure that analytical results are accurate and analyzed within the established envelope of quality, if requested, andprovide the signature of person(s) responsible for the quality of reports or his/her designee.Cognizant regulatory agencies and VA representatives shall be granted access to Consulting Physicist facilities, personnel, equipment, and records related to VA utilized vendor provided services. PART 6APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS6. APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS (CURRENT EDITIONS) 6.1. The Contractor must abide by all applicable regulations, publications, manuals, and local policies and procedures, such as:Title 10 Chapter 20Title 10 Chapter 35NUREG-155649CFRMCM-00-118-LM Radiation Safety CommitteeMCM-114-001-LM Radiation Safety PlanVHA HANDBOOK 1105.04 FLUOROSCOPY SAFETY VHA HANDBOOK 1105.01 MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS VHA DIRECTIVE 1129 RADIATION PROTECTION FOR MACHINE SOURCES OF IONIZING RADIATION MCM 138-011-LM The Safe Use of Fluoroscopic EquipmentVA Boston COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY (CT) SOP PART 7ATTACHMENT/TECHNICAL EXHIBIT LISTINGAttachment/Technical Exhibit List: Attachment 1/Technical Exhibit 1 Performance Requirements Summary Attachment 2/Technical Exhibit 2 Deliverables ScheduleAttachment 3/Technical Exhibit 3 Typical Equipment Inventory TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 1Performance Requirements Summary The contractor service requirements are summarized into performance objectives that relate directly to mission essential items. The performance threshold briefly describes the minimum acceptable levels of service required for each requirement. These thresholds are critical to mission success.Performance Objective(The Service required usually a shall statement)StandardPerformance Threshold (This is the maximum error rate. It could possibly be Zero deviation from standard )Method of SurveillancePRS # 1. The contractor shall provide the services described in the PWS.The contractor provided the services in a manner customary to the Health Physics profession.No more than one customer complaint per report.Validated Customer Complaint received by COR. TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 2DELIVERABLES SCHEDULEDeliverableFrequency# of CopiesMedium/FormatSubmit ToReports required by PWS paragraph 5 A 1, 2 , 3, 4, and 5 within 30 days of performance 1 original paper (hard copy), Joseph J. Darman, VA Boston Healthcare System150 South Huntington AvenueBoston, MA 02130 TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 3EQUIPMENT LISTTypical X-Ray Machine InventoryManufacturerModelTypeLocationCampusServicePhilipsMedico 50 CP-HRadiographyRm-127@LowellCBOCHologicDiscovery QDRBone Densitometery2B-B217-3-BRBRRadiologyPhilipsSuper 80 CPR&F2B-B215-3-BRBRRadiologyFujiGORadiography1B-114-1-WRBRRadiologyPhilipsOptimusRadiography2B-B213-3-BRBRRadiologyPhilipsOptimusRadiography2B-B219-3-BRBRRadiologyGEAMX 4Radiography1C-C108-3-BRBRRadiologyGEAMX 4Radiography2B-B214-3-BRBRRadiologyGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B514-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B513-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B511-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B510-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B509-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B508-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B507-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B506-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B505-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B525D-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B525C-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B529-3-BRBRDentalPlanmecaProMax Panoramicx-ray5B-B529-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B518-3-BRBRDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray5B-B518-3-BRBRDentalHologicDiscovery SLBone Densitometery2D-141-1-JPJPWomansGELunarBone Densitometery2F-11-1-JPJPResearchGEOEC 9900 EliteC-Arm5E-112-1-JPJPEndoGEOEC 9900 EliteC-Arm3F-35-1-JPJPIRPhilipsBV PulseraC-Arm3F-35-1-JPJPORGEOEC 9900 EliteC-Arm (Fluoro & Cine)3F-48-1-JPJPPainSiemensSomatom Sensation 64CT2D-162B-1-JPJPCTToshibaPrime AquilionCT2D-162A-1-JPJPCTPlanmecaDimax3 PanoramicCT x-ray2C-18-1-JPJPDentalPhilipsBrillianceCT-SimBR-RB�5-1A-JPJPRTHTypical X-Ray Machine Inventory (continued)ManufacturerModelTypeLocationCampusServiceGESenographe EssentialMammography2D-140-1-JPJPWomansHologicInSight Mini C-Arm3F-35-1-JPJPORSiemensMagnetom Prisma Fit 3.0TMRIMR-107-1B-JPJPRadiologyPhilipsBioGemni 16 PET CTBD-101D-1-JPJPNuc MedPhilipsDigital Diagnost Rel 4.1Radiography2E-99-1-JPJPRadiologyGEAMX4 PlusRadiography2RB-201-1A-JPJPResearchFaxitronMX-20Radiography2RB-201-1A-JPJPResearchPhilipsOptimusRadiography2E-104-1-JPJPRadiologyGEAMX4 PlusRadiography2C-HallJPRadiologyPhilipsMobilDiagnost wDRRadiography1B-114-1-WRJPRadiologyPhilipsEasy DiagnostRadiography2E-95-1-JPJPRadiologyGEAMX4Radiography2C-HallJPRadiologyGendexGX-770x-ray2C-11A-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-11-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-11D-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-12-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-13-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-27D-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-27F-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-18-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-11C-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-15-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-11B-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-27G-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-27C-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-11F-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-11E-1-JPJPDentalGendexGX-770x-ray2C-19-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-27B-1-JPJPDentalGendexExpert DCx-ray2C-27H-1-JPJPDentalGELunarBone Densitometery2A-A215-2-WRWRResearchGEOEC 9900 EliteC-Arm3A-316-2-WRWRORGEOEC 9900 EliteC-Arm3A-316-2-WRWRORGEOEC 9900 EliteC-Arm1B-160-1-WRWRRadiologyGEOEC 9800 PlusC-Arm3A-316-2-WRWRORGEOEC 9900 EliteC-Arm1B-160-1-WRWREndoTypical X-Ray Machine Inventory (continued)ManufacturerModelTypeLocationCampusServicePhilipsAlura XPER FD-20C-Arm (Fluoro & Cine)1A-106B-2-WRWRIRPhilipsAlura FD 10 Bi Plane C-Arm (Fluoro & Cine)5D-106-1-WRWREP LabGEInnova 4100 IQC-Arm (Fluoro & Cine)1A-106C-2-WRWRIRPhilipsAlura XPER FD-20C-Arm (Fluoro & Cine)5D-103-1-WRWRCath LabPhilipsAlura XPER FD-20C-Arm (Fluoro & Cine)5D-110-1-WRWRCath LabSiemensSomatom Sensation 64CTGB-102-1-WRWRCTToshibaAquilion OneCTGB-103-1-WRWRCTHologicInSight Mini C-Arm3A-316-2-WRWRORGESigna HDXT MRIGB-154-2-WRWRRadiologyGEDiscovery MR750W MRIGB-174-2-WRWRRadiologySiemens Aera 1.5MRIGB-174-2-WRWRRadiologyPhilipsEasy Diagnost-ElevaR&F1B-117-1-WRWRXRAYPhilipsJuno DRF R&F1B-113-1-WRWRRadiologyPhilipsBucky DiagnosticRadiography1B-108-1-WRWRRadiologyPhilipsOptimusRadiography1B-109-1-WRWRRadiologyPhilipsOptimusRadiographyGA-106-3-WRWRXRAYPhilipsDigital DiagnostRadiographyGA-113-3-WRWRXRAYPhilipsMobilDiagnost wDRRadiography1B-114-1-WRWRRadiologyGEAMX 4 PlusRadiography1A-107-1-WRWRF-IRGEAMX 4 PlusRadiography3C-115-1-WRWRF-PARCUPhilipsMobilDiagnost wDRRadiography1B-114-1-WRWRRadiologyPhilipsMobilDiagnost wDRRadiography1B-114-1-WRWRRadiologyPhilipsBrightView XCTSPECT-CT2C-115-3-WRWRNuc MedPhilipsBrightView XCTSPECT-CT2C-118-3-WRWRNuc MedSiemensSymbia IntevoSPECT-CT2C-111-3-WRWRNuc MedTypical Hand Held/Radiation Detection EquipmentMeter ModelMeter SNProbe ModelProbe SNBiodex Atomlab 50012100140Dose76652073Biodex Atomlab 50012100139Dose75093039Fluke 451B-RYR1730------Fluke 451B-RYR1918------Fluke 451P-RYR2959------Ludlum Model 17732287844-40PR348662Ludlum Model 1773831044-9PR055037Ludlum Model 17732290844-40PR348657Ludlum Model 17732289644-40PR348676Ludlum Model 33762644-9 44-3PR109252 PR022201Ludlum Model 327341644-9PR291713Ludlum Model 327324844-9PR292513Ludlum Model 327328344-9PR292511Ludlum Model 33709544-3VA6665-5037Ludlum Model 33706844-9 44-3PR259495 PR022198Ludlum Model 327166144-9PR291764Ludlum Model 33711544-9PR070816Ludlum Model 327332544-9PR291711Ludlum Model 327329244-9PR292512Ludlum Model 38236144-9PR105914Ludlum Model 321599744-9PR225250Ludlum Model 35266844-9PR075899Ludlum Model 327341244-9PR291712Ludlum Model 327335044-9PR291714Responses to this sources sought will be used by the Government to make appropriate acquisition decisions. After review of the responses to this sources sought, a solicitation announcement may be published. Responses to this sources sought synopsis are not considered adequate responses for a solicitation announcement. Responses to this sources sought/RFI are due by 22 November 2019 at 9:00 am EST time. Responses to this notice shall be submitted via email to issa.shawki@va.gov. Telephone responses shall not be accepted.If a solicitation is issued it shall be announced at a later date, and all interested parties must response to that solicitation announcement separately from the responses to this request for information. Responses to this notice are not a request to be added to a prospective bidders list or to receive a copy of the solicitation.The NAICS code for this requirement is 541690 and a small size standard of $16.5 Million.
 

Web Link

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Place of Performance

Address: Please see section 1.6.5. Place of Performance, USA

Country: USA
 

Record

SN05498100-F 20191120/191120064127 (samdaily.us)
 

Source

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