The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has launched a significant new opportunity for UK healthcare and social care providers. The National Framework Agreement for Teleradiology, Telepathology and Telemedicine Services is now live, offering suppliers the chance to support critical digital diagnostics and remote clinical services across the public sector. With a three-year term and a structure that welcomes both established and specialist providers, this framework is set to shape the future of healthcare delivery across the NHS and beyond.
If you are considering a bid for this national framework agreement, contact Thornton & Lowe for a rapid, expert assessment of the opportunity's fit and your likely chances of success.
Why This Framework Agreement Matters for Suppliers
This is not a standard contract: it is a multi-lot national framework agreement, meaning suppliers who secure a place get streamlined access to NHS buyers seeking:
- Lot 1: Teleradiology and Telemedicine Services
- Lot 2: Telepathology Services
The scope is intentionally broad, giving opportunities to both integrated digital health businesses and niche clinical providers. While the value is not stated in the official notice, the strategic importance of teleradiology, telepathology and telemedicine solutions in post-pandemic healthcare suggests this could be one of the sector’s most influential digital health frameworks yet.
Being a part of this agreement means increased visibility and eligibility to deliver critical remote diagnostics, regardless of your size or current NHS presence. With a three-year duration, suppliers gain long-term engagement potential and a stable route to market.
Bidding Considerations: What Sets This Framework Apart
The lot structure is a clear benefit: it allows you to tailor your bid to your core specialism, whether that's radiology, pathology or a broader telemedicine offer. You can focus resources for maximum impact, or bid across multiple lots if you have the breadth to deliver. As the framework is managed by an NHS Foundation Trust, bidders should be ready for rigorous assurance on quality, compliance and information security.
Unlike a dynamic purchasing system (DPS), successful suppliers are pre-qualified and may be called off for work without the need for further full tendering, providing long-term opportunities and a clear route to NHS buyers nationwide.
- Review the full published notice for precise scope, entry requirements, and to verify which services and technologies are most in demand within each lot.
- Analyse your delivery models: Consider your ability to support both routine and out-of-hours service models, which is increasingly prioritised in digital and remote diagnostics.
- Demonstrate robust governance: NHS frameworks seek assurances on clinical quality, technical standards, information security, and value for money. Be prepared with documentation and evidence up front.
Quick facts
- Framework type: National Framework Agreement
- Procurement authority: Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
- Scope: Teleradiology, Telepathology, Telemedicine (multiple lots)
- Value: Not stated
- Term: 3 years
Key dates
- Submission deadline: 20 April 2026
- Live opportunity as per official notice
Frameworks of this scale rarely open and can define the digital pathway for NHS diagnostics for years to come. With the clock ticking until the April 2026 deadline, early review and preparation are vital.
Ready to assess your fit for this major NHS framework opportunity? Contact Thornton & Lowe now for specialist bid support, eligibility review and a practical route to success in the UK healthcare and social care sector.
