NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has set up a new procurement framework for IT hardware for health service organisations.
It said the Digital Workplace: Hardware (Link 3) Framework – which it developed with the NHS North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC) – replaces the Link 2: IT Hardware Framework.
The framework involves 19 suppliers, including SMEs and global manufacturers, and is set to run until the end of February 2023 with an option to extend to 2025.
NHS SBS has estimated the value at around £1 billion with average indicative savings of 25% against list prices.
Products covered
It covers desktop PCs, laptops/notebook devices, mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, wearables), specialist healthcare related IT hardware (clinical displays, infection control keyboards, mobile carts), printers/scanners, and a one-stop-shop for peripheral items or bundled requirements.
The framework also provides organisations with the option to utilise value added services including device-as-a-service (DVaaS). This is an alternative to the traditional capital equipment purchase model, whereby customers can source IT and associated devices at a finite cost per device per month over a desired term.
In addition, it provides a route to procure new products such as virtual reality headsets used in medical diagnosis.
Phil Davies, director of procurement at NHS SBS (pictured), said: “In 2020, much of the country moved to remote working with huge success. The launch of the Digital Workplace: Hardware framework means the public sector can continue to access technologies that are pivotal to supporting productivity through flexible and innovative ways of working.
“The framework has been carefully negotiated to ensure it offers the latest devices with highly competitive public sector pricing. With a comprehensive procurement exercise already undertaken, NHS and other public sector organisations can save valuable time and resource by directly awarding or carrying out mini-competitions as required.”
NHS SBS added that the framework is fully compliant with Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and all suppliers meet the necessary standards, including Cyber Essentials and ISO Quality Management.
Image from NHS SBS
