Transportation: Patient and Specialist Courier Services
Introduction
The Transportation: Patient and Specialist Courier Services framework, managed by the East of England NHS, is a structured procurement route offering a wide array of transport and courier services. This framework, which falls under the Transport & Fleet category, is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) but rather a fixed-term framework agreement ending on 28 March 2025. Its primary aim is to provide efficient, reliable, and cost-effective transportation solutions while supporting the NHS's broader sustainability goals by incorporating eco-friendly delivery options.
Context & Use Case
This framework is crucial for NHS organisations seeking to optimise their transport and logistics operations. It is designed to cater to the diverse transportation needs of NHS entities, ranging from non-urgent patient transport to specialist courier services. Contracting authorities utilise this framework to ensure that their transport services meet high standards of safety and efficiency, particularly in handling sensitive items and patient care. The inclusion of environmentally conscious services aligns with the UK's commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, making it a valuable tool for NHS bodies committed to sustainable operations.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into several specific lots, each addressing different aspects of transportation and courier services: 1. Non-urgent Patient Transportation Services: Facilitates the movement of patients who do not require immediate medical attention. 2. Private Ambulance - System Capacity Support: Provides additional ambulance services to support system demands. 3. Patient Repatriation Service: Assists in returning patients to their home country or locality. 4. Temperature Controlled Logistics - Planned Service Delivery: Offers scheduled transportation of temperature-sensitive items. 5. Temperature Controlled Logistics – Same Day Courier Service: Ensures same-day delivery for temperature-controlled goods. 6. Temperature Controlled Logistics – Next Day Courier Service: Provides next-day delivery for temperature-sensitive materials. 7. Hazard Material (ADR) Logistics - Planned Service Delivery: Manages the transportation of hazardous materials as per planned schedules. 8. Hazard Material (ADR) Logistics – Same Day Courier Service: Offers same-day courier services for hazardous materials. 9. Hazard Material (ADR) Logistics - Next Day Courier Service Delivery: Facilitates next-day delivery for hazardous goods. 10. Notes and Files Delivery Service: Specialises in the secure delivery of notes and files. 11. ‘Green’ and Innovative Courier Service Delivery: Focuses on environmentally friendly courier solutions. 12. Total Service Delivery: A comprehensive service covering all aspects of transport and logistics needs.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to both local and national suppliers who meet the necessary compliance and capability requirements. Suitable suppliers include those with expertise in patient transport, temperature-controlled logistics, and handling of hazardous materials. Suppliers should have trained staff to ensure the safe delivery of items and the well-being of patients. As this is not a DPS, the application process is fixed and will not reopen during the framework's duration.
Buyer Benefits
Public sector buyers can leverage this framework to access a robust, compliant solution for their transport and logistics needs. It offers a streamlined procurement process, reducing the time and resources required to secure high-quality services. The framework ensures competitive pricing and service standards, allowing NHS organisations to efficiently meet their operational requirements while adhering to regulatory and environmental standards.
Lots
Lot 1: Non-urgent Patient Transportation Services This lot covers the provision of non-urgent patient transportation services. Lot 2: Private Ambulance - System Capacity Support This lot provides private ambulance services to support system capacity. Lot 3: Patient Repatriation Service This lot covers services for the repatriation of patients. Lot 4: Temperature Controlled Logistics - Planned Service Delivery This lot involves planned service delivery for temperature-controlled logistics. Lot 5: Temperature Controlled Logistics – Same Day Courier Service This lot offers same day courier services for temperature-controlled logistics. Lot 6: Temperature Controlled Logistics – Next Day Courier Service This lot covers next day courier services for temperature-controlled logistics. Lot 7: Hazard Material (ADR) Logistics - Planned Service Delivery This lot involves planned service delivery for hazardous material logistics. Lot 8: Hazard Material (ADR) Logistics – Same Day Courier Service This lot provides same day courier services for hazardous material logistics. Lot 9: Hazard Material (ADR) Logistics - Next Day Courier Service Delivery This lot covers next day courier services for hazardous material logistics. Lot 10: Notes and Files Delivery Service This lot involves the delivery service for notes and files. Lot 11: ‘Green’ and Innovative Courier Service Delivery This lot offers environmentally friendly and innovative courier services. Lot 12: Total Service Delivery This lot covers comprehensive service delivery.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating should thoroughly review the framework's specific requirements and directly contact the East of England NHS for further details. This step is essential to ensure that potential applicants understand the framework's scope and compliance expectations.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable supports suppliers by providing comprehensive insights into public sector frameworks like the Transportation: Patient and Specialist Courier Services framework. We assist suppliers in understanding framework requirements, preparing application documentation, and maintaining visibility of relevant procurement opportunities. Our goal is to enhance suppliers' readiness and strategic positioning in the public sector procurement landscape.