HCSA has noted the recent HSJ article headlined “Trusts ‘stumbling in legal challenges’ with botched procurements” and welcomes DHSC plans to help improve procurement in NHS pathology.
As an organisation, HCSA fully supports the intervention from DHSC and its ‘call for evidence’ to help explore and address challenging procurements.
We also welcome the stated DHSC approach “to work with our health partners across the NHS, framework providers, industry suppliers and professional bodies to develop and share best practice.”
We recognise that procurements of this nature are complex, challenging, high value and important to all stakeholders in the NHS and the supplier market.
However, we would also highlight the great work that does take place to deliver successful procurements in the pathology market as represented by the case covered by HSJ here of an unsuccessful supplier challenge to a decision made by three Yorkshire acute trusts to award a £450m, 14-year contract to Siemens.
HCSA encourages its members to respond to the ‘call for evidence’ to inform a rounded view of the challenges and look forward to supporting any improvements that can be made.
The ultimate aim of HCSA will always be to assist its members and the wider community in creating the most efficient procurement service possible.
HCSA
Note please:
**This initial call for evidence uses the MS Office forms survey that can be found Pathology Manage Service Contracts – Initial call for evidence and will close on 5th September.
Please note, this survey is not anonymous, however attributable responses will not be shared outside of DHSC. If you have any questions or concerns about how DHSC will manage responses, please contact medtech@dhsc.gov.uk in the first instance.**