Overview

NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has collaborated with the North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC) to establish a framework agreement valued at £1.5 billion. This initiative aims to modernize outdated IT systems within the NHS.

Framework Details

The new framework, titled Tech Devices – Link 4, is designed to simplify the procurement process, allowing teams to acquire the latest essential end-user hardware and devices from various suppliers.

Challenges Addressed

The NHS is currently facing significant challenges in upgrading its outdated hardware, which often does not support the latest operating systems or software. Concerns have been raised regarding the readiness of trusts to transition to Windows 11 by October 2025.

Statements from Officials

Sakir Mahmud, principal category manager for digital and IT at NHS SBS, emphasized the importance of a robust IT infrastructure for the NHS’s vision of a streamlined digital health service. He stated:

“Modernising IT equipment is vital to overcoming challenges, enabling innovation, and ensuring healthcare professionals can prioritize patient care.”

Framework Duration

The Tech Devices – Link 4 framework will be active from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2028, with an option to extend until 31 March 2029.

Endorsement and Scope

This framework has received endorsement from NHS England as a recommended route for trusts to procure digital and IT solutions. It includes four lots covering essential devices such as:

• Desktops
• Laptops
• Tablets
• Healthcare-specific equipment (e.g., medical workstations and clinical diagnostic monitors)

Sustainability Focus

To promote sustainability, the framework includes a Refurbished and Remanufactured Devices Lot, offering high-performance, cost-effective solutions that align with the NHS’s net-zero goals.

Impact on Patient Care

Adele Guettat, category manager for technology at NOE CPC, highlighted the negative impact of outdated IT hardware on team morale and patient care. She noted:

“Investing in advanced IT equipment is key to improving productivity and care.”

She also pointed out that without modern devices, NHS trusts struggle to upgrade systems like EPR, leading to inefficiencies in patient care.

Wider Public Sector Benefits

The framework agreement extends beyond the NHS, allowing other public sector entities, including education trusts and local authorities, to benefit from the NHS’s purchasing power.

Government Goals

This initiative supports the government’s objective to transition from an analogue to a digital NHS, a commitment made by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer following an independent investigation into the NHS’s state.

Future Plans

The government’s upcoming 10-year plan, expected to be released in spring 2025, will likely emphasize the shift from analogue to digital as a key focus for the NHS.

Current Issues in General Practice

A recent poll by the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) revealed that 30% of GPs believe their work PCs or laptops are inadequate. The survey, conducted with 2,190 RCGP members, also identified issues with hardware, Wi-Fi, telephony systems, and information exchange capabilities with other NHS services.