Medical IT Framework FAQs

The latest iteration of NHS Supply Chain’s Medical IT is now open– to get your head around the framework, we've put together some FAQs.

Medical IT Framework

In the UK, we are lucky enough to have a digitally-enabled healthcare system; in fact, digital transformation is currently at the forefront of the NHS’ mind. So, with that comes numerous opportunities for technology suppliers to contribute to an ever-developing health sector. Here, we cover everything you need to know about the Medical IT framework…

What does Medical IT mean?

Medical IT refers to a variety of software and hardware solutions—ranging from short term tactical services to longer term, strategic solutions—that contribute towards various medical ecosystems. These include departmental solutions, such as picture archiving and communication systems (PACS); data and content management solutions; and local, off-site or cloud-based solutions.

On previous iterations of the framework, 350 Medical IT contracts have been procured since 2012. So, it’s certainly one worth listing on!

Who are NHS Supply Chain?

NHS Supply Chain are a buying organisation who are hosting this particular framework, responsible for managing “the sourcing, delivery and supply of health care and food products to the NHS and healthcare organisations in England and Wales.” The organisation exists to help the HS deliver clinically assured, high quality products at high value, which is why Medical IT is crucial in the delivery of this.

What do we know about the Medical IT framework so far?

This iteration of the Medical IT framework is now open for supplier applications!

NHS Supply Chain have given an expected submission date of 27th July 2020 for applications. So if you’re interested, don’t hang about!

There is a lot in scope within the framework. It covers:

advanced visualisation software
departmental information systems
RIS (Radiology Information System),
artificial intelligence,
departmental image management
CAD software
ePrescribing
research solutions
and A LOT more!

Within the complimentary hardware Lot, suppliers can provide monitors, workstations, servers and more. Any hardware that is used in conjunction with the software solution from Lot 1.

As you can see, the scope of the framework is rather vast; for example, the only guidance we have on artificial intelligence refers to those that can “be used in a healthcare environment”. This is good news, as NHS Supply Chain aren’t limiting themselves or their suppliers in the scope of digital transformation.

Is there a lotting structure?

There is indeed. The framework is structured as follows:

Lot 1 – Software Solutions
Lot 2 – Complimentary Hardware

It’s worth nothing that Lot 2 refers to “hardware complimentary to the software solutions provided in Lot 1”. This suggests to us that suppliers can be on both Lots 1 and 2, but cannot be listed on Lot 2 without being on Lot 1.

Are there any specific requirements to get onto the framework?

Based on the information about the previous iteration of the framework, we know that the following accreditation, insurances and requirements are needed to successful list on the framework:

ISO 9001 quality management system accreditation
Liability Insurance of a minimum of £5 million
Compliance to the Code of conduct for data-driven health and care technology

In addition to this, for Lot 1, all successful suppliers are required to provide training for their software solutions, alongside 24/7 support, so bear this in mind when considering your suitability for the framework.