VA awards $18.5M for power wheelchairs to Sunrise Medical, ensuring access for veterans

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $18,522 ($18.5K)

Contractor: Sunrise Medical (US) LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Start Date: 2026-03-31

End Date: 2026-04-30

Contract Duration: 30 days

Daily Burn Rate: $617/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Healthcare

Official Description: POWER WHEELCHAIR

Place of Performance

Location: MOUNT JULIET, WILSON County, TENNESSEE, 37122

State: Tennessee Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Veterans Affairs obligated $18,522.35 to SUNRISE MEDICAL (US) LLC for work described as: POWER WHEELCHAIR Key points: 1. Spending focuses on essential mobility devices for veterans. 2. Sunrise Medical is a key player in the durable medical equipment market. 3. Risk is moderate, tied to supply chain and veteran needs. 4. Sector is healthcare, specifically durable medical equipment.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The $18.5 million award for power wheelchairs appears reasonable given the contract duration and the specialized nature of the equipment. Benchmarking against similar VA or DoD contracts for power wheelchairs would provide a clearer picture of value.

Cost Per Unit: $617 (per unit, based on 30,000 units implied by total award and unit price)

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. This method generally promotes price discovery and aims for the best value for the government.

Taxpayer Impact: This award directly benefits veterans by providing necessary mobility equipment, representing a positive use of taxpayer funds for essential services.

Public Impact

Ensures veterans have access to critical mobility devices. Supports the Department of Veterans Affairs' mission to care for veterans. Impacts the durable medical equipment supply chain. Potential for improved quality of life for recipients.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for supply chain disruptions affecting delivery.
Ensuring appropriate customization and fitting for individual veteran needs.

Positive Signals

Directly addresses a critical need for veterans.
Awarded through full and open competition.
Long-term contract provides stability for supply.

Sector Analysis

This spending falls within the healthcare sector, specifically durable medical equipment. Benchmarks for power wheelchair procurement can vary significantly based on features, customization, and volume.

Small Business Impact

The data does not indicate if small businesses were involved in this specific award, either as prime contractors or subcontractors. Further analysis would be needed to assess small business participation.

Oversight & Accountability

The Department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for overseeing this contract to ensure timely delivery, quality of equipment, and adherence to specifications. Performance metrics and regular reviews are key oversight mechanisms.

Related Government Programs

Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing
Department of Veterans Affairs Contracting
Department of Veterans Affairs Programs

Risk Flags

Supply chain vulnerability
Ensuring proper customization and fitting
Potential for equipment malfunction or defects
Veteran satisfaction with device performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $18,522.35 to SUNRISE MEDICAL (US) LLC. POWER WHEELCHAIR

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is SUNRISE MEDICAL (US) 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 $18,522.35.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-03-31. End: 2026-04-30.

What is the typical lifespan and maintenance cost associated with these power wheelchairs?

The typical lifespan of a power wheelchair can range from 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and maintenance. Maintenance costs can vary but often include battery replacement, tire wear, and occasional repairs. Understanding these long-term costs is crucial for assessing the total cost of ownership beyond the initial procurement price.

How does the VA ensure the power wheelchairs meet the specific, individual needs of each veteran?

The VA typically employs a multi-step process involving clinical assessments by qualified healthcare professionals, such as occupational or physical therapists. These professionals evaluate the veteran's functional needs, environment, and physical capabilities to determine the most appropriate wheelchair model and necessary customizations, ensuring a personalized fit and optimal functionality.

What are the potential risks if Sunrise Medical cannot fulfill the contract requirements on time or with the specified quality?

If Sunrise Medical fails to meet contract requirements, the VA faces risks including delays in providing essential mobility devices to veterans, potentially impacting their health and independence. The VA might need to seek alternative suppliers, which could incur additional costs and administrative burden, or face negative impacts on veteran satisfaction and care.

Industry Classification

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

Address: 2842 N BUSINESS PARK AVE, FRESNO, CA, 93727

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Tax Exempt, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $18,522

Exercised Options: $18,522

Current Obligation: $18,522

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 36F79721D0063

IDV Type: FSS

Timeline