The Medical IT framework is now open!
We've been waiting for the Medical IT framework to open for applications - and now it's here! We outline what suppliers should do now.
The Medical IT framework, run by NHS Supply Chain, is a route to market for software solutions and the associated technology that comes with it. Used by many large departments in the NHS, as well as social care, it has a lot of buyers looking to it to solve their digital transformation needs.
Now open for supplier applications, it’s due to close on 27th July 2020. We recently ran through some of the basics, but here’s what suppliers should do now it’s open.
Make sure you provide what it’s asking for
Medical IT actually has a pretty big scope. A lot of solutions can be provided within Lot 1 (Software Solutions) and Lot 2 (Complimentary Hardware) is flexible as long as it relates to the supply of Software. For example, monitors that are required for imaging software.
Here’s a list of everything within scope for Lot 1, Software Solutions:
- advanced visualisation software,
- departmental information systems,
- artificial intelligence,
- departmental image management
- cardiology PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System),
- PACS — (Picture Archiving and Communications System),
- CAD software — computer aided detection,
- dose monitoring,
- EDM — Electronic document management,
- ePrescribing — Electronic prescription software,
- interoperability system (sharing solution),
- order comms software,
- LIMS — Laboratory information management system,
- VNA — Vendor neutral archiving,
- multi-disciplinary team meeting solutions,
- research solutions.
See, it’s a lot! But suppliers should take the time to make sure they can provide what’s being asked for. Take a look at the ITT, which goes into more specifics about these technologies and what suppliers need to do to provide them through the framework.
Check your accreditation
Just providing the right technology solutions for the framework isn’t enough. The public sector, and especially healthcare and the NHS, have strict regulations and demands from suppliers. This means that suppliers have to have certain accreditation in place to apply.
Suppliers will need:
- ISO9001 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
- Health and Safety policy
- Liability insurances
- Suppliers must also be able to provide training where needed for their software solutions, as well as provide 24/7 support.
There are other more specific requirements per software solution. So, you’ll want to make sure you’re eligible to be on the framework before getting started.
Outline your people, time and resources
Applying for frameworks such as the Medical IT framework does take time. Compared to applications for those like G-Cloud or Digital Outcomes and Specialists, there is A LOT more to it.
Get everything in order before you start. Make sure you’ve got the right members of your team ready and able to contribute. But most importantly, make sure you have enough time to make everything the best it can be. The last thing you want is to not get accepted after spending all that effort.
If you’re unsure whether you can meet the application requirements, or feel you need help in the getting your application sorted, get in touch. That’s what we’re here for!
Get started right away!
As we said, timing is important. Frameworks like these should not be left until the last minute. Start now and get everything in order and even start drafting everything you need. More time means a better quality submission!
There you have it, some tips on what to do now that the Medical IT framework is open. If you’re a supplier of software solutions and can meet the needs of the health and social care sector, then you should be seriously considering this route to market.
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