To make it easier for SMEs to participate, NHS SBS undertook an open procedure tender process. The final framework, which has a potential spend of £1.25 billion, includes a number of SMEs as well as better-known suppliers.
The framework will operate for four years, with an option of extending this for a further two years, and is free for any NHS organisation to access.
With much of the legwork already completed, the framework will enable providers to avoid having to go through the full OJEU process. Instead they will be able to localise their requirements by holding mini-competitions with suppliers on the framework, significantly shortening the timescale and cost of procuring complex systems.
The framework is divided into six lots covering core clinical systems; theatre clinical systems; integrated emergency care clinical systems; child health systems; maternity systems and specialist electronic prescribing clinical systems.
To ensure the framework remains agile in the face of rapidly evolving technology, the appointed suppliers will be able to bring forward new releases throughout the life of the agreement.
NHS SBS director of procurement Peter Akid explains: "This framework is about achieving a far more efficient and strategic way of procuring complex clinical systems that reduces the procurement timescales and save tens of thousands of pounds in the process.
"We had an overwhelming number of expressions of interest from suppliers last year. In the intervening months we have ensured that providers, including specialist clinicians, lead pharmacists and doctors, have been in the driving seat when it comes to defining the specifications and evaluating system functionality, to ensure the framework is right for them.
"As part of this process interoperability and integration of the systems was a key consideration and so too was the ability of Trusts to fine tune the products to their particular requirements.
"The framework has brought together a combination of suppliers who are in the best position to help providers reap the benefits of clinical information systems that can drive forward improvements in patient care."
To access the HCIS framework documentation and supporting guidance contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Referencing (NHS SBS-HCIS-Framework SBS / 15 / CR / WAS / 8387)
To find out more or discuss support options contact Thomas Slater, NHS SBS Assistant Director Provider Procurement on 0161 212 2420 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
About NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS)
NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS), a 50/50 joint venture between the Department of Health and IT specialist Sopra Steria, is the market leader in business support services for the NHS.
Established in 2005, NHS SBS now provides financial services to 100% of all NHS Commissioning organisations and the full range of business support services for around 40% of NHS Provider Trusts.
NHS SBS provides Finance & Accounting, Employment Services, Procurement and Primary Care Services, delivering operational efficiencies and improved service quality as well as real cost savings, on average 30%, for our NHS clients.
NHS SBS currently employs over 1,600 people who bring a unique mix of NHS and commercial expertise. We now process over £170 billion of NHS payments each year, pay 200,000 NHS employees and recover more than £14 billion of debt annually for our NHS clients. The organisation has also identified more than £350 million procurement savings opportunities.
NHS SBS has already achieved its original target of delivering £224 million of cost savings to the NHS by 2015. The organisation is now on-course to achieve £1 billion of cost savings to the NHS by 2020.