Medical Gases
Introduction
The Medical Gases Framework, established by the East of England NHS, is a structured procurement arrangement designed to streamline the acquisition of medical gases for healthcare providers. Spanning from its inception until 30 November 2024, this framework is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) but a fixed-term framework agreement. Its primary objective is to facilitate the cost-effective procurement of medical gases, ensuring healthcare facilities have reliable access to essential supplies while promoting competitive pricing and operational efficiencies.
Context & Use Case
In the healthcare sector, the availability of medical gases is crucial for a variety of treatments and procedures. This framework serves as a strategic tool for NHS trusts and other healthcare organisations to procure these gases efficiently and at competitive rates. Contracting authorities utilise this framework to reduce the administrative burden of individual negotiations and to leverage collective purchasing power. By standardising the procurement process, the framework ensures that healthcare providers can focus on patient care rather than logistical complexities.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into distinct lots, each addressing specific needs related to medical gases: 1. Medical Gas Cylinders: This lot includes the rental, refill, and delivery of medical gas cylinders. It encompasses a comprehensive system to track the cylinders, thereby reducing loss and ensuring optimal usage. 2. Medical Liquid Oxygen: This lot covers the supply and delivery of medical liquid oxygen, ensuring that healthcare facilities have access to this critical resource as per their requirements. These services are designed to support the demanding environments of healthcare settings, ensuring that essential medical gases are always available when needed.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to suppliers who specialise in the provision of medical gases and related services. Suitable applicants typically include manufacturers, distributors, and logistics providers with expertise in handling medical-grade gases. While the framework itself is not a DPS, meaning applications are closed outside the initial tendering phase, it offers considerable opportunities for suppliers who meet the specified criteria to engage in public sector contracts until its conclusion in 2024.
Buyer Benefits
For public sector buyers, the Medical Gases Framework offers several advantages. It ensures compliance with procurement regulations, providing a pre-approved route to market that simplifies the procurement process. The framework's competitive structure encourages cost savings through collective bargaining and standardised terms. Additionally, the framework's tracking system reduces waste and improves logistical efficiency, further enhancing value for money and ensuring a sustainable supply chain for medical gases.
Lots
Lot 1: Medical Gas Cylinders This lot covers the supply of medical gas cylinders. Lot 2: Medical Liquid Oxygen This lot covers the provision of medical liquid oxygen.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in taking part in the Medical Gases Framework should conduct a thorough review of the framework's requirements and ensure alignment with their capabilities. It is advisable to contact the East of England NHS directly for detailed information on participation and compliance criteria.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable supports suppliers in navigating the complexities of public sector procurement frameworks like the Medical Gases Framework. By providing insights into framework requirements and offering tools for effective preparation, Biddable ensures that suppliers are well-equipped to engage in meaningful opportunities. Additionally, Biddable enhances visibility into procurement pipelines, helping suppliers to strategically plan their participation in public sector markets.