Title
Public Health Department requesting authorization to purchase a molecular diagnostic robotic specimen processing unit (QIAcube) in the amount of $19,710.25 for the Public Health Laboratory to respond to disease outbreaks more effectively.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Approve.
FUNDING: State Pandemic Flu and Bioterrorism Preparedness grant
Body
BUDGET SUMMARY:
Total Estimated Cost $19,711
Funding
Budgeted $19,711
New Funding $
Savings $
Other $
Total Funding Available $19,711
Change To Net County Cost $0
Fiscal Impact/Change to Net County Cost: The cost of the QIAcube instrument has been quoted at $19,711, which includes shipping, tax, and warranty. Funding for this purchase comes from the bioterrorism preparedness grant awarded to the County by the State. There is no increase in budgeted revenues or expenditures and no net County cost.
Background: Public Health has attempted to purchase a robotic specimen processing unit for several years, which would allow the Public Health Laboratory to move more quickly and aggressively in responding to instances of disease outbreak, including potential instances of pandemic influenza. Qiagen, the manufacturer of the QIAcube, is the only vendor who supplies the instrument. They have an excellent reputation in the medical laboratory community for producing quality equipment and other laboratory products.
This item was included and approved in the Department's Proposed FY 2007-08 Budget and would normally be purchased after the Board approves the Final FY 2007-08 Budget in September. However, due to the impending Norovirus season, Public Health is requesting this item be purchased as soon as possible so that the Public Health Lab can be prepared adequately.
Action to be taken following Board approval: Department to process purchase of QIAcube instrument; Board to direct Auditor to pay associated invoice.
Contact: Dan Buffalo
Concurrences:
Con...
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