Procurement

Procurement is an essential part to implementing the non invasive bladder analysis test into routine clinical practice. The purchasing of this technology however can be complex and time consuming - but it doesn't need to be. In this section, we have provided information on what procurement means, what the various options are for purchasing the technology (and any associated consumables), who provides this technology and other factors that Trusts need to think about before, during and after implementation.

To explore this section please click on the headings below:

Procurement Options - provides an overview of the options that are now available to the NHS for purchasing this technology.
Supplier Details - lists the current technology suppliers and provides individual information sheets on the technology that is currently available.
Training Programme - details the training options that are available to clinical staff surrounding the technology.
NHS Service Specification - provides a succinct overview of what service changes are required in order to ensure the successful embracement of the procurement process.
Department of Health guidance for PCT's - gives an overview of procurement guidance for PCTs that has recently been issued by the Department of Health.

Procurement Options

Procurement of the non invasive cuff test technology must comply with Trusts "Standing Financial Instructions" (SFIs) and current Public Procurement Legislation. Trusts should always ensure they engage with their local procurement department when considering the development of services in this way. Until recently, a formal "tender" process has been required in order to purchase the non invasive cuff test technology; however there is now an additional option that Trusts may want to consider:

Access and make full use of a new Purchasing Framework, which has been developed through the NHS Supply Chain. This option provides Trusts with an alternative to running a local tender process for the provision of this service whilst still complying with SFIs and UK legislation.

The Office of Goverment Commerce has produced a procurement summary paper which highlights the details of procuring within the public sector which Trusts may find useful.

NOTE: Each Trust is responsible for its own contractual arrangements and must choose one or other of the above routes ensuring appropriate advice is sought through its local procurement or supplies department.

Supplier Details

Whilst it is not NTAC's role to recommend specific manufacturers, the non invasive cuff test technology is currently manufactured and supplied by Mediplus Ltd (local procurement process) and NHS Supply Chain (Purchasing Framework).

Training Programme

Training can be provided by Mediplus Ltd (subject to local agreement) to up-skill healthcare professionals to will enable the full use of this technology in the clinical setting. This would include:

Unprecedented access to specific clinical data and on-going research in relation to the technology.
Supplier developed information such as principals of the cuff test, patient information leaflet (manufacturer specific) etc.
Installation and a 2 day training programme - day 1 provides information about medical physics testing, training of staff and clinical teams whilst day 2 focuses on using the technology in clinic with patients. Supplier is present to ensure continuity.
A review would take place 2-3 weeks later - "how they are getting on"?
Regular liaison ensuring support and guidance is at hand (manufacturer specific).
E-mail support is offered for queries around test data and assisting with any technical issues (technology specific) that may arise.
12 month warranty which includes any software/hardware support - including unlimited telephone support.
Software upgrades free of charge unless it is hardware upgrade such as bladder scanner - this would have to be purchased but software is inclusive.
Offer of reference site visits (if required).
Providing information on how to secure confidential electronic patient data (if appropriate).

NHS Service Specification

It is important to recognise that a structured approach to adopting this technology is critical to ensure the implementation of a successful model of care. Trusts should also note that it is likely that they will be required to develop a local business case for the implementation of this technology into their organisation, which will compliment the procurement exercise. This will need to include evidence of agreed funding for this technology, either from commissioners or from the Trusts own budget. NTAC project implementation sites have developed a business case and Costing Model which can assist NHS organisations in planning for the implementation of this technology locally.

Department of Health Guidance for PCTs

The Department of Health has recently published a Click here, which provides a framework for decisions regarding this essential component of service delivery. Its aim is to "support PCT boards, their delegated authorities and providers (where applicable) in making appropriate and effective decisions about procurement, and ensuring consistency with the overarching principles for public services procurements. These principles include transparency, proportionality, non-discrimination and equality of treatment" - Source: Department of Health: PCT procurement guide for health services.

The purpose of the guide is to enable PCTs to:

Decide when to use procurement for a clinical service.
Determine what procurement approach to use if they are running a procurement exercise.
Outline some key aspects of procurement including the scope of a service specification, financial and risk issues.

Click here to access the Department of Health procurement guide for PCTs.

NOTE: It should be noted that each Trust is responsible for its own contractual arrangements and must procure this technology in the correct way; ensuring appropriate advice is sought through its local procurement department.