Digital Capability for Health FAQs

The Digital Capability for Health framework is a CCS agreement in partnership with the NHS. Here's what you need to know.

Crown Commercial Service have teamed up with NHS Digital to bring this brand new route to market. The Digital Capability for Health framework is a way for suppliers of digital solutions and services to the health and care sector. But how do they get involved with this estimated £800m opportunity? And how does it all work? This blog has got you covered.

What is the Digital Capability and Health framework?

As mentioned, the framework is a partnership between NHS Digital and CCS to create an agreement for the provision of Digital Outcomes, DevOps Capability and Delivery Squads. They’ve outlined the spec as:

• development of digital solutions (using agile approaches)
• DevOps support for existing products and services
• data management services (for health data)

Unlike frameworks such as Digital Outcomes and Specialists though, the competition to get on to the framework is going to be pretty tough. As CCS have stated they plan to only award 10-15 suppliers a place on the framework.

This means that the framework selection criteria for Digital Capability and Health is going to be more in-depth then DOS and will incorporate more checks on capability and cultural fit. Leaving less work for buyers and suppliers when it comes to sorting the Call-Offs.

Who is the framework for?

Where this one is more competitive, suppliers should make sure they can definitely meet requirements before getting an application in. CCS have outlined that suppliers will need to; have a deep knowledge of the relevant tech, have senior staff expertise in health and social care domains, a proven record with the public sector and agile, competitive pricing and sufficient staff and resources to be able to meet buyer requirements.

So, does this mean it’s suitable for SMEs? Yes and no. SMEs can apply if they meet all of the criteria, of course. However, they’ll need to show the experience and relationships they’ve held in the past. Smaller companies can work with and alongside larger organisations to meet the requirements – but again, they’ll have to show the experience of working together successfully already within the market. They stress that they don’t just want companies banding together just to get listed.

When does it open?

The OJEU will be published in the 2nd week of August if all goes to plan. Which means applications will open then, with the window scheduled to be open for around a month. So if you’re interested, start planning your time now!