The MRI system uses a medical imaging technique, used in radiology, to form images of the anatomy and the physiological processes of the body in both health and disease. MRI systems use strong magnetic fields, magnetic field gradients, and radio waves to generate images of the organs in the body. This is a system used for complex and critical examinations, which requires on-going maintenance to assure that at all times, system operates, and the image quality is at the peak performance levels specified by the manufacturer. In addition, this support agreement includes our Guardian program which includes real time monitoring of system parameters that enables Siemens to perform proactive and, in some cases, even predictive maintenance. This reduces the possibilities of unscheduled downtime which is disruptive to staff and work flow and presents risk to patients.

The university, on information and belief, has concluded that only one vendor can meet its need or can meet the need economically. That vendor is Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc. The university has provided detailed justification to support its conclusion as shown on the attached Sole Source Justification Form.

Although the university has presented this as a sole source procurement, we are seeking competitive information from firms with the capability of meeting the university's need (even if performed in a manner different from what has been presented) to contact us and provide sufficient information to show the need can be met. If we receive that information, the Chief Procurement Officer will offer a public hearing to consider the matter. Hearing information is described below.

The University has determined that this purchase is only economically available from this source because the procurement is software license, upgrade or maintenance.