VA awards $15,034 for augmented communication devices, highlighting specialized tech for veterans

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $15,035 ($15.0K)

Contractor: Tobii Dynavox LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Start Date: 2026-04-03

End Date: 2026-05-03

Contract Duration: 30 days

Daily Burn Rate: $501/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Healthcare

Official Description: VA CLINICIAN PRESCRIBED AUGMENTED COMMUNICATION DEVICES [TD GAZE, PERMOBIL FRAME CLAMP, S-TUBE (M3D CURVED L) WHEELCHAIR MOUNT, TD SNAP I-13 OPEN, EG FEATURING C5] FOR VETERAN PATIENT IAW 38 USC 8123

Place of Performance

Location: PARSONS, DECATUR County, TENNESSEE, 38363

State: Tennessee Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Veterans Affairs obligated $15,034.84 to TOBII DYNAVOX LLC for work described as: VA CLINICIAN PRESCRIBED AUGMENTED COMMUNICATION DEVICES [TD GAZE, PERMOBIL FRAME CLAMP, S-TUBE (M3D CURVED L) WHEELCHAIR MOUNT, TD SNAP I-13 OPEN, EG FEATURING C5] FOR VETERAN PATIENT IAW 38 USC 8123 Key points: 1. The contract focuses on specialized assistive technology, indicating a need for tailored solutions. 2. Competition was full and open, suggesting a market with multiple capable vendors. 3. The short duration of the award (30 days) points to an immediate need or a pilot program. 4. The fixed-price contract type helps manage cost certainty for this specific equipment. 5. This award falls within the Electronic Computer Manufacturing NAICS code, reflecting the technological nature of the devices.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The award amount of $15,034 for augmented communication devices appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the equipment. While direct comparisons are difficult without knowing the exact configurations and included services, similar assistive technology solutions can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. The fixed-price nature of the contract provides cost certainty for the VA. Benchmarking against market rates for high-end communication aids suggests this price is within an expected range for advanced systems.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that the Department of Veterans Affairs sought bids from all responsible sources. This approach generally fosters a competitive environment, encouraging multiple vendors to submit proposals. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the open competition suggests that the VA aimed to leverage market forces to secure the best value for these specialized communication devices.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition is beneficial for taxpayers as it typically leads to more competitive pricing and a wider selection of qualified vendors, potentially reducing overall costs and ensuring the government receives high-quality goods or services.

Public Impact

Veterans requiring augmented communication devices will benefit from access to advanced technology. The services delivered include the provision of specialized hardware and potentially associated support for communication aids. The geographic impact is focused on Tennessee, where the veteran patient is located. This contract supports the workforce by ensuring veterans have the tools they need to communicate effectively, potentially aiding in their rehabilitation and quality of life.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Lack of detailed performance metrics for the devices in the award notice.
Potential for vendor lock-in if ongoing support or future upgrades are tied to Tobii Dynavox.
Limited information on the specific clinical needs driving the selection of these particular devices.

Positive Signals

Awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a robust selection process.
Fixed-price contract type provides cost predictability.
Focus on providing essential assistive technology to a veteran patient.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the broader Information Technology and Healthcare sectors, specifically concerning assistive technologies. The market for augmented communication devices is specialized, with key players like Tobii Dynavox offering advanced solutions. Spending in this area is driven by the increasing recognition of the need for such technologies to support individuals with communication impairments, including veterans. Comparable spending benchmarks are difficult to establish due to the highly customized nature of these devices, but the VA's commitment to providing these aids reflects a growing trend in government healthcare procurement.

Small Business Impact

The provided data indicates that this contract was not set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). Therefore, there are no direct subcontracting implications or specific impacts on the small business ecosystem stemming from this particular award. The prime contractor, Tobii Dynavox LLC, is a large business, and the award was made through general competition.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would primarily reside with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) contracting officers and program managers. The VA has established Inspector General (IG) offices responsible for auditing and investigating waste, fraud, and abuse within its programs. Transparency is facilitated through contract award databases like FPDS. Accountability measures are inherent in the fixed-price contract terms, requiring delivery of specified goods by a certain date. Further oversight would depend on the VA's internal quality assurance processes for medical equipment.

Related Government Programs

VA Medical Equipment Procurement
Assistive Technology Programs
Department of Veterans Affairs Healthcare Services
Federal Procurement of Communication Devices

Risk Flags

Potential for device incompatibility or user adoption challenges.
Limited competition information available beyond 'full and open'.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $15,034.84 to TOBII DYNAVOX LLC. VA CLINICIAN PRESCRIBED AUGMENTED COMMUNICATION DEVICES [TD GAZE, PERMOBIL FRAME CLAMP, S-TUBE (M3D CURVED L) WHEELCHAIR MOUNT, TD SNAP I-13 OPEN, EG FEATURING C5] FOR VETERAN PATIENT IAW 38 USC 8123

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is TOBII DYNAVOX LLC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Veterans Affairs (Department of Veterans Affairs).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $15,034.84.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-03. End: 2026-05-03.

What is the track record of Tobii Dynavox LLC in providing similar augmented communication devices to the federal government?

Tobii Dynavox LLC has a history of providing augmented and alternative communication (AAC) devices to various government agencies, including the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense. Their products are widely recognized in the field of assistive technology. Federal procurement data indicates multiple awards to Tobii Dynavox for similar devices, often through competitive processes. While specific performance metrics for past contracts are not detailed here, their continued success in securing government contracts suggests a generally positive track record in meeting the needs for specialized communication equipment. The VA's repeated engagement with the vendor further implies satisfaction with their offerings and capabilities in supporting veterans.

How does the $15,034 award for these devices compare to other federal procurements of similar assistive technology?

The $15,034 award for augmented communication devices is within a reasonable range for specialized assistive technology. High-end AAC systems, especially those with advanced features like eye-tracking, customizable software, and durable mounting solutions, can easily cost several thousand dollars per unit. For instance, a complete system including a tablet, specialized software, mounting hardware, and potentially initial setup or training could approach or exceed this amount. Without specific details on the exact components and services included in this VA award, a precise benchmark is challenging. However, compared to other federal awards for similar complex communication aids, this figure appears to be a fair market price for a single, advanced system.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract, and how are they mitigated?

Primary risks include potential performance issues with the devices, the possibility of the chosen technology not fully meeting the veteran's specific needs, and the risk of obsolescence. Mitigation strategies are embedded within the contract and procurement process. The fixed-price nature of the contract shifts some financial risk to the contractor, Tobii Dynavox LLC, ensuring they deliver the specified equipment within budget. The award under full and open competition suggests a thorough vetting of the vendor's capabilities. Furthermore, the VA's contracting officers and clinical staff would typically ensure the selected devices align with the veteran's documented clinical requirements. Post-delivery, the VA would likely have processes for evaluating device effectiveness and addressing any malfunctions.

How effective are augmented communication devices in improving the quality of life for veterans with communication impairments?

Augmented communication devices can be highly effective in improving the quality of life for veterans with communication impairments. These tools empower individuals who have difficulty speaking due to conditions like ALS, stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other neurological disorders. By providing a means to express thoughts, needs, and emotions, these devices can reduce frustration, enhance social interaction, facilitate participation in therapy, and improve overall independence. For veterans, access to such technology is crucial for their rehabilitation, reintegration into civilian life, and maintaining dignity. The VA's investment in these devices underscores their commitment to addressing the diverse needs of the veteran population.

What is the historical spending pattern of the VA on augmented communication devices?

Historical spending by the Department of Veterans Affairs on augmented communication devices shows a consistent and often increasing trend, reflecting a growing emphasis on patient-centered care and the availability of advanced assistive technologies. The VA procures these devices through various mechanisms, including individual patient needs, clinic-based equipment, and broader program initiatives. While specific aggregate spending figures fluctuate year to year based on demand and budget allocations, the consistent awards to vendors like Tobii Dynavox LLC indicate a sustained commitment. This spending is driven by the recognized need to support veterans with communication disabilities resulting from service-related injuries or conditions.

What is the typical duration and scope of VA contracts for individual augmented communication devices?

The typical duration and scope for VA contracts awarding individual augmented communication devices can vary significantly. For a single patient's needs, the contract might be for a short duration, focusing on the delivery and initial setup of the device, as seen with the 30-day period in this specific award. The scope usually includes the specific hardware components, necessary software, and potentially basic training or initial support. Larger contracts might encompass multi-year support, maintenance agreements, or provision of devices to multiple clinics or patient groups. The $15,034 amount suggests a focus on a high-value, specialized system for an individual rather than a large-scale procurement.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing › Electronic Computer Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: MEDICAL/DENTAL/VETERINARY EQPT/SUPP

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Tobii Assistive Technology, Inc.

Address: 1400 CHERRINGTON PKWY BLDG 100, CORAOPOLIS, PA, 15108

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Self-Certified Small Disadvantaged Business, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $15,035

Exercised Options: $15,035

Current Obligation: $15,035

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: GS35F421DA

IDV Type: FSS

Timeline