NHS IT Procurement - A Technology Framework Focus

Overview of NHS IT Procurement Frameworks

NHS IT procurement frameworks are agreements between the NHS and pre-approved suppliers that streamline the purchasing process for digital healthcare services and goods. These frameworks offer numerous benefits to both suppliers and the NHS, making them an essential tool in modern healthcare technology acquisition.

For suppliers, NHS IT procurement frameworks simplify the process of selling to the NHS, saving time and resources. By being vetted and approved, suppliers gain access to a wide range of NHS organisations, increasing their potential customer base. The NHS benefits from these frameworks by gaining access to a pool of trusted, vetted suppliers, enabling NHS buyers to spend more time building strong relationships with suppliers and enhancing the quality of service delivery.

Essentially, NHS IT procurement frameworks function as approved supplier lists, ensuring that the NHS works with reliable, high-quality vendors, promoting efficiency in the procurement process.

Understanding Framework Agreements

Framework agreements are a compliant procurement route, which bring suppliers and buyers together. They set terms for future purchases, making it easier to get IT goods and services.

These deals typically last up to four years. During this time, NHS organisations can buy from the chosen suppliers without running new tenders. This saves time and money.

Frameworks cover a wide range of IT needs. You'll find options for hardware, software, and services. Some focus on clinical systems, while others deal with admin tools.

The Role of NHS Shared Business Services

NHS Shared Business Services (SBS) plays a key part in IT procurement. They manage several important frameworks for the NHS.

SBS works to get the best deals for NHS buyers. They negotiate with suppliers to secure good prices and terms. This helps trusts and clinics save money on IT purchases.

The Digital & IT Category team at NHS SBS offers deep category-specific insight, expertise, and support aligned with category management principles. They aim to help the NHS and public sector improve patient and social care through technology and achieve data-driven digital transformation. NHS SBS collaborates with suppliers, partners, and healthcare organisations to co-create transformative solutions.

NHS SBS manages a portfolio of technology framework agreements covering areas such as Cyber Security, Digital Workplace, Consultancy, Technology Enabled Care, and Healthcare Clinical Tech. These agreements are commonly used by NHS and social care organisations across all healthcare settings.

The framework agreements are divided into three main categories:

1. Digital Healthcare: Patient-facing technology solutions that leverage data to improve patient care.
2. Digital Workforce & IT Transformation: Services and resources that help digitalise the NHS and reduce administrative load on healthcare staff.
3. Digital Workplace: Common technology enablers and tools for NHS employees and clinical staff, delivering the infrastructure to support digital transformation.

Exploring the NHS England Procurement Strategy

NHS England has created a plan to improve IT buying. Their strategy aims to make procurement simpler and cheaper.

A big part of this plan is reducing the number of frameworks. NHS England wants to cut down on overlap between different agreements. This makes it clearer which framework to use for each purchase.

The strategy groups frameworks into six main areas:

1. Clinical hardware
2. Non-clinical hardware
3. Clinical software
4. Non-clinical software
5. Digital services
6. IT services

NHS England gives guidance on which frameworks to use. This helps buyers pick the best option for their needs.

Procurement Regulations and Compliance

3 key changes across 2023 and 2025 when it comes to NHS procurement.

NHS Provider Selection Regime (PSR)

The Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023 (SI 2023/1348) introduce a new procurement regime for the NHS in England called the Provider Selection Regime (PSR). These regulations come into force on 1 April 2024 and will significantly impact how suppliers work with the NHS. Please note, this only applies to 'health care services'. However, with rules around mixed procurement for health care service, it's an important area to consider - even if to rule out as a regulation which will impact your organisation.

The Procurement Act

The Procurement Act 2023, which is set to go live on 24 February 2025, will replace the current Public Contracts Regulations 2015, Utilities Contracts Regulations 2016, Concession Contracts Regulations 2016, and Defence & Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011. This new legislation aims to create a more flexible and streamlined procurement process across the public sector.

In terms of the broader procurement implications under the Procurement Act 2023, suppliers should be aware of the following:

1. The Act introduces new procurement routes, such as the competitive flexible procedure, which allows contracting authorities to design their own procurement process within a set of parameters.
2. 'Open frameworks' that can be established for up to 8 years and require reopening of competition during the lifetime of the framework.
3. A greater emphasis on transparency, with contracting authorities required to publish procurement notices on the Central Digital Platform (CDP), which will replace the Find a Tender Service (FTS). This could likely impact 'direct awards' and the use of frameworks.
4. Language and terminology: Suppliers should familiarise themselves with the new language and terminology used in the Act, as it differs from the current regulations.

Greener NHS

The NHS has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2040 for the emissions they control directly and by 2045 for the emissions they influence through the goods and services they buy from suppliers. To achieve this goal, the NHS requires the support of all their suppliers.

Key points from the NHS's supplier engagement strategy:

1. Roadmap: In September 2021, the NHS England Public Board approved a roadmap to help suppliers align with the NHS's net zero ambition between now and 2030. This approach builds on UK Government procurement policy (PPN 06/20 and PPN 06/21).
2. Minimum weighting: From April 2022, all NHS procurements include a minimum 10% net zero and social value weighting. The Net Zero and Social Value Guidance for NHS Procurement Teams helps to unlock health-specific outcomes.
3. Carbon Reduction Plans: From April 2023, for all new contracts above £5 million per annum, the NHS requires suppliers to publish a Carbon Reduction Plan for their UK Scope 1 and 2 emissions and a subset of Scope 3 emissions as a minimum. By April 2024, these requirements will be proportionately extended to cover all new procurements.
4. Reporting: From April 2027, all suppliers will be required to publicly report targets, emissions, and publish a Carbon Reduction Plan for global emissions aligned to the NHS net zero target, covering all their Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
5. Product carbon footprinting: From April 2028, new requirements will be introduced overseeing the provision of carbon footprinting for individual products supplied to the NHS. The NHS will work with suppliers and regulators to determine the scope and methodology.

From 2030, suppliers will only be able to qualify for NHS contracts if they can demonstrate their progress through published progress reports and continued carbon emissions reporting! The NHS will continue to offer a free Carbon Reduction Plan checking service until further notice.

The NHS recognises that not all suppliers are at the same stage of their net zero journey. They will continue to work closely with regulators, suppliers, and industry bodies to shape their approach and give all suppliers the opportunity to align with the NHS's net zero ambition.

You may also be interested in Evergreen Assessments.

Adhering to NHS Procurement Directives

NHS procurement is guided by rules that ensure fairness and value. These rules aim to include smaller businesses and create social benefits. Let's look at the key areas of compliance for NHS IT procurement.

The Procurement Act, set to start on 24 February 2025, brings new rules for NHS buying. You'll need to follow these rules when getting IT goods and services. The act gives you six months to learn about the changes before they start.

Key points to remember:

• Use approved framework agreements
• Follow transparent pricing guidelines
• Make sure your choices match NHS England's advice

You should pick frameworks run by approved hosts. This helps keep your buying choices in line with NHS rules.

Maintaining Social Value in Procurement

When the NHS buy IT services, they think about more than just cost. Social value is a big part of NHS procurement now.

Ways to add social value:

• Working with suppliers who create local jobs
• Choose companies with good environmental practices
• Pick partners who support community projects

Social value questions will be in tenders. This helps you pick suppliers who give back to society, not just offer low prices.

Involvement of SMEs in NHS Procurement

Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a big role in NHS IT procurement.

The NHS are encouraged to:

• Break big contracts into smaller lots
• Hold supplier days to meet local SMEs
• Use simple language in your tenders

Regional NHS Procurement Collaboratives

NHS procurement collaboratives play a key role in helping trusts obtain value for money. These regional hubs provide specialised expertise and collective buying power. They support trusts with framework agreements, strategic purchasing, and supplier engagement.

London Procurement Partnership Details

NHS London Procurement Partnership (NHS LPP) is an organisation that manages and develops procurement framework agreements for the NHS and public sector organisations. They offer a range of frameworks within the Clinical Digital Solutions category, which aim to provide NHS trusts with access to innovative digital health solutions and services.

Some of the key frameworks offered by NHS LPP in the Clinical Digital Solutions category include:

1. Clinical Digital Health Solutions (CDHS): This framework offers a streamlined procurement route for NHS trusts to access leading-edge digital health solutions. It covers various areas such as electronic health records, e-prescribing, and remote monitoring solutions.
2. Clinical Digital Professional Solutions Framework (CDPS): The CDPS framework is designed to support NHS organisations in procuring professional services related to digital health solutions. It is split into four lots, allowing contracting authorities to choose the best option for their specific requirements.
3. Health & Social Care Apps Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS): This DPS provides a flexible and efficient way for NHS trusts to procure health and social care apps. It enables suppliers to join the DPS at any time, ensuring that the latest innovative solutions are always available to NHS organisations.
4. Clinical Digital Solutions Framework (CDS): The CDS framework offers a compliant route to market for NHS trusts to procure clinical digital solutions. It covers a wide range of areas, including patient-facing solutions, clinical decision support, and workflow management.
5. Total Technology Solutions (NOE.0552): This framework provides a comprehensive range of technology solutions for NHS trusts, including hardware, software, and services. It is designed to support NHS organisations in their digital transformation journey.

By using these frameworks, NHS trusts can benefit from a streamlined procurement process, assured supplier quality, and access to innovative digital health solutions. NHS LPP's Clinical Digital Solutions frameworks are an essential tool for NHS organisations looking to drive digital transformation and improve patient care through technology.

North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative

NHS North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC) is an organisation that provides collaborative procurement services to the NHS and other public sector bodies in the North of England. They focus on delivering value for money and high-quality procurement solutions, including a range of digital and IT frameworks.

NOE CPC's key digital and IT procurement frameworks include:

1. Clinical Digital Professional Solutions: This framework provides a compliant route to market for NHS organisations to procure professional services related to digital health solutions, such as consultancy, project management, and software development.
2. IT Hardware and Services (LINK3): The LINK3 framework offers a streamlined procurement process for NHS organisations to access a wide range of IT hardware and services, including desktops, laptops, servers, and related services.
3. Non-Clinical Systems Dynamic Purchasing System (NOE.0274): This DPS provides a flexible and efficient way for NHS organisations to procure non-clinical digital systems, such as financial management, HR, and procurement software.
4. Total Technology Solutions (NOE.0552): The Total Technology Solutions framework is a comprehensive agreement that covers a wide range of technology solutions, including hardware, software, and services. It aims to support NHS organisations in their digital transformation journey.

There are other framework options for IT and digital services, such as CCS, so please contact us to discuss. Hello@thorntonandlowe.com

Innovations and Developments in NHS IT Procurement

The NHS is making strides in modernising its IT procurement processes. New systems and investments are changing how NHS organisations buy technology.

Adoption of Dynamic Purchasing Systems

Dynamic purchasing systems (DPS) are shaking up NHS IT procurement. These flexible systems let you add new suppliers at any time. This means more choice and better value for NHS buyers.

DPS platforms are often web-based. They make it easy to compare prices and features across different IT products. You can quickly see which options best fit your needs and budget.

Many NHS trusts now use DPS for buying computer hardware and software. It's faster than traditional frameworks. You can also tap into a wider pool of suppliers, including small businesses with innovative solutions.

Investment in IT Hardware and Solutions

The NHS is putting more money into up-to-date IT kit. This includes new computers, tablets, and networking gear. Better hardware helps staff work more efficiently and improves patient care.

Recent programmes have funded dozens of digital health projects. These range from virtual wards to AI-powered diagnostics. You'll find cutting-edge tech being tested in hospitals across the UK.

Sustainability is a key focus too. New IT procurement deals favour energy-efficient equipment. This helps the NHS meet its net zero goals while keeping costs down.

Buying decisions now look at long-term value, not just upfront price. This approach helps ensure NHS IT systems are fit for the future.

Implications for Patient Care and Wellbeing

NHS IT procurement choices have far-reaching effects on patient care quality and overall wellbeing. These decisions shape how healthcare services are delivered and experienced by patients across the UK.

Enhancing Healthcare with IT Innovations

New IT systems can boost patient care in many ways. Electronic health records let doctors quickly access your medical history, leading to faster and more accurate diagnoses. Online booking systems make it easier for you to schedule appointments. Telemedicine platforms allow you to consult with specialists from home, saving time and travel costs.

Some key benefits include:

• Faster access to test results
• Improved medication management
• Better coordination between different healthcare providers
• Easier tracking of your health data over time

These tools can help you take a more active role in managing your health. They also free up NHS staff to spend more time on direct patient care.

Procurement Decisions Affecting Patient Outcomes

The IT systems the NHS buys can directly impact your health outcomes. User-friendly interfaces make it easier for staff to input data correctly, reducing errors in your care. Secure data sharing between departments means your full medical history is available when needed.

Poor procurement choices can lead to:

• Delayed treatments due to system failures
• Privacy breaches putting your personal data at risk
• Frustration for both patients and staff using poorly designed systems

Careful IT procurement ensures that new technologies enhance rather than hinder your care. It's crucial for the NHS to involve patients and frontline staff in these decisions. This helps make sure the chosen systems truly meet your needs and improve your healthcare experience.

The Future of NHS IT Procurement

The NHS is set to see major shifts in how it buys tech. New rules and tools will change the game for trusts and suppliers alike.

Predicting Trends and Changes

You'll see more focus on shared buying power. NHS trusts will team up to get better deals on IT. This could mean big savings.

Digital skills will be key. NHS buyers will need to know more about tech to make smart choices. Training will be a must.

AI and machine learning will play a bigger role. These tools could help spot trends and find the best deals.

Cloud services will grow. More NHS data and systems will move online. This could cut costs and boost flexibility.

Sustainable and Ethical Procurement Practices

Green tech will be a top concern. You'll see more focus on energy-saving IT and eco-friendly suppliers.

The NHS will look at the whole life of products. This means thinking about how to reuse or recycle old kit.

Fair trade will matter more. NHS buyers will check that suppliers treat workers well and use ethical sources.

Local firms could get a boost. The NHS might try to buy more from nearby businesses to help the UK economy.

Social value will be key. IT deals might need to create jobs or help communities to win NHS contracts.

Frequently Asked Questions

NHS procurement frameworks play a key role in healthcare purchasing. They help the NHS get good value and quality from suppliers. Here are some key questions about how these frameworks work.

What steps must suppliers take to become part of an NHS procurement framework?

Suppliers need to go through an application process. They must show they can meet NHS standards and offer good value.

The steps often include:

1. Checking eligibility
2. Filling out tender documents
3. Providing proof of quality and financial stability

Suppliers may also need to show how they'll support NHS goals like reducing carbon emissions.

How do NHS procurement frameworks facilitate the selection of healthcare providers?

NHS frameworks make it easier to choose providers. They create a pre-approved list of suppliers who meet NHS criteria.

This saves time and ensures quality. NHS trusts can pick from the framework list without running a full tender process each time.

Frameworks often group providers by speciality or service type. This helps trusts find the right fit quickly.

What are the key objectives that NHS procurement strategies aim to achieve?

NHS procurement aims to:

1. Save money
2. Improve quality of care
3. Support innovation

It also focuses on:

1. Reducing environmental impact
2. Boosting UK economic growth
3. Increasing diversity in suppliers

These goals shape how the NHS buys goods and services.

In what way does the NHS SBS framework differ from other procurement frameworks within the NHS?

NHS Shared Business Services (SBS) runs its own frameworks. These cover a wide range of products and services.

NHS SBS frameworks often:

1. Focus on back-office and support services
2. Offer more flexible contract terms
3. Include a larger number of suppliers

They aim to give NHS organisations more choice and better value.

Thornton & Lowe Procurement & Bid Writing Services

At Thornton & Lowe, we specialise in public sector supply chain management, working with both public sector organisations, such as the NHS, and suppliers.

• We help NHS trusts procure services, manage supplier relationships, and ensure compliance with regulations. Our goal is to streamline the procurement process and deliver the best value for our clients.
• For suppliers, we offer support in accessing frameworks and winning tenders and contracts. We understand that the public sector procurement process can be challenging, especially for SMEs. That's why we provide services such as bid writing, bid management, and training programs to help suppliers compete effectively in the public sector market.

With our expertise in the public sector supply chain and our focus on delivering exceptional results, Thornton & Lowe is the go-to partner for organisations and suppliers looking to succeed in this complex landscape.