VA awards $15K contract for wheelchair ramps to VETS ACCESS LLC, highlighting surgical supply manufacturing needs

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $14,999 ($15.0K)

Contractor: Vets Access LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Start Date: 2026-04-06

End Date: 2026-10-31

Contract Duration: 208 days

Daily Burn Rate: $72/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Healthcare

Official Description: WHEELCHAIR RAMP

Place of Performance

Location: FLUSHING, GENESEE County, MICHIGAN, 48433

State: Michigan Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Veterans Affairs obligated $14,998.5 to VETS ACCESS LLC for work described as: WHEELCHAIR RAMP Key points: 1. Contract awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 2. The contract duration is relatively short, indicating a specific, time-bound need. 3. Fixed-price contract type helps mitigate cost overrun risks for the government. 4. The award falls under Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing, a niche but essential sector. 5. Geographic focus on Michigan for delivery of these ramps. 6. The small value of the contract suggests it may be for a limited quantity or specific location.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $14,998.50 appears reasonable for a specialized medical supply like wheelchair ramps, especially considering potential customization or installation needs. Benchmarking against similar contracts for medical equipment or accessibility modifications would provide a clearer picture of value for money. However, without more detailed scope of work or unit pricing, a definitive value assessment is challenging. The fixed-price nature of the award is a positive indicator for cost control.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that all responsible sources were permitted to submit bids. The number of bidders is not specified, but this method generally fosters price discovery and encourages competitive pricing. The VA's approach suggests they sought the best value through a broad solicitation process.

Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayers benefit from a competitive process that aims to secure the best possible price for the required wheelchair ramps, minimizing unnecessary expenditure.

Public Impact

Veterans requiring wheelchair ramps will benefit from improved accessibility and mobility. The services delivered include the provision of essential medical equipment. The geographic impact is focused on Michigan, where the ramps will be delivered. This contract supports the healthcare supply chain for medical devices.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Lack of specific performance metrics makes it difficult to assess the quality and timeliness of ramp delivery.
The limited contract duration might indicate a pilot program or a short-term need, raising questions about long-term accessibility solutions.
No information is provided on installation or maintenance, which could be critical for ramp functionality and safety.

Positive Signals

Awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a robust and fair bidding process.
The fixed-price contract type provides cost certainty for the government.
The contract supports the Department of Veterans Affairs' mission to provide necessary medical equipment to veterans.

Sector Analysis

The market for surgical appliances and supplies is a specialized segment within the broader healthcare manufacturing industry. This contract, focused on wheelchair ramps, falls under durable medical equipment. Spending in this sector is driven by healthcare needs, aging populations, and government programs aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities. Comparable spending benchmarks would typically involve analyzing contracts for other mobility aids, prosthetics, or assistive devices within federal healthcare agencies.

Small Business Impact

The contract was not set aside for small businesses, and there is no indication of subcontracting requirements for small businesses. This suggests that the primary award went to a larger entity or that the scope of work did not lend itself to small business participation. Further analysis would be needed to determine if small businesses were involved in the supply chain or if opportunities were missed.

Oversight & Accountability

The Department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for overseeing this contract. Oversight mechanisms would typically include contract administration, performance monitoring, and quality assurance checks. Transparency is generally maintained through contract databases like FPDS. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of fraud, waste, or abuse related to the contract.

Related Government Programs

Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Equipment Procurement
Durable Medical Equipment Contracts
Federal Accessibility Initiatives

Risk Flags

Potential for delivery delays due to logistics.
Risk of non-compliance with accessibility standards if quality is not maintained.
Limited data on contractor's past performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $14,998.5 to VETS ACCESS LLC. WHEELCHAIR RAMP

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is VETS ACCESS 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 $14,998.5.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-06. End: 2026-10-31.

What is the specific type and model of wheelchair ramp being procured, and are there any unique specifications required by the VA?

The provided data does not specify the exact type or model of wheelchair ramp. Contract 36C26324D0047, Delivery Order 75A50024F0103, awarded to VETS ACCESS LLC for $14,998.50, falls under NAICS code 339113 (Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing). Typically, VA contracts for such items would detail specifications related to material, load capacity, dimensions, portability, and installation requirements to ensure compliance with accessibility standards (e.g., ADA) and the specific needs of the veteran population. Without the full contract details or statement of work, it's impossible to ascertain these specifics. Further inquiry would require accessing the complete contract documentation.

How does the unit cost of these wheelchair ramps compare to market rates for similar products?

The total contract value is $14,998.50 for an unspecified number of wheelchair ramps. To compare unit costs, we would need to know the quantity awarded. For instance, if 10 ramps were awarded, the unit cost would be approximately $1,500 per ramp. This price point could be considered reasonable or high depending on the type of ramp (e.g., portable, modular, custom-installed), material (aluminum, wood, rubber), and features. Market research for standard portable aluminum ramps often shows prices ranging from $100 to $1,000, while more complex or custom-installed ramps can cost several thousand dollars. Without the quantity, a direct unit cost comparison is not feasible, but the total value suggests a limited number of units or a specific type of ramp.

What is VETS ACCESS LLC's track record with the Department of Veterans Affairs and other federal agencies?

VETS ACCESS LLC is listed as the contractor for this delivery order. A review of federal procurement data (e.g., FPDS) would reveal the company's history of awards, contract types, agencies served, and performance history. Without access to a comprehensive database search for VETS ACCESS LLC, it's difficult to assess their track record. However, being awarded a contract, even a small one, suggests they have met basic eligibility requirements. Further investigation into past performance evaluations, any past disputes, or significant contract modifications would provide a clearer picture of their reliability and capabilities.

What is the expected impact of these wheelchair ramps on veteran mobility and quality of life in Michigan?

The primary impact of these wheelchair ramps is to enhance the mobility and independence of veterans in Michigan who require them. By providing access to homes, facilities, or other areas that may have steps or elevation changes, the ramps can significantly improve a veteran's quality of life, enabling easier navigation and greater participation in daily activities. This directly supports the VA's mission to care for its veterans. The specific impact will depend on the number of veterans served and the locations where the ramps are deployed.

Are there any potential risks associated with this contract, such as delivery delays, quality issues, or contractor performance?

Potential risks include delivery delays if VETS ACCESS LLC faces supply chain issues or logistical challenges in Michigan. Quality issues could arise if the ramps do not meet specified standards or are improperly manufactured, potentially leading to safety hazards. Contractor performance risk is generally mitigated by the fixed-price contract type, but poor performance could still result in delays or the need for corrective actions. The short duration (approx. 6 months) and relatively small value ($15K) may limit the scope for significant performance issues, but diligent oversight by the VA is still crucial.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing › Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: PREFAB STRUCTURES/SCAFFOLDING

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

Address: 1449 E PIERSON RD STE B, FLUSHING, MI, 48433

Business Categories: Category Business, Limited Liability Corporation, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business, Small Business, Sole Proprietorship, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business, Veteran Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $14,999

Exercised Options: $14,999

Current Obligation: $14,999

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 36F79718D0319

IDV Type: FSS

Timeline