International Healthcare Professional Recruitment and Associated Services
Introduction
The International Healthcare Professional Recruitment and Associated Services Framework, managed by NHS Commercial Solutions, is an invaluable resource designed to streamline the recruitment of international healthcare professionals. This framework, which operates until 1 May 2025, does not function as a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) but as a structured framework agreement. It aims to facilitate the compliant and ethical recruitment of international healthcare staff across various specialisms, thereby aiding UK healthcare organisations in meeting staffing requirements efficiently and effectively.
Context & Use Case
Recruiting healthcare professionals from overseas is a critical strategy for many NHS organisations seeking to fill skill gaps and enhance service delivery. This framework is crucial as it connects healthcare providers with experienced suppliers specialising in international recruitment. This connection ensures that organisations can find suitable candidates who meet their specific needs while adhering to regulatory and ethical standards. By using this framework, NHS bodies can streamline their recruitment processes, reduce administrative burdens, and focus on integrating new hires into their teams.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into five distinct lots, each addressing different aspects of international healthcare recruitment and associated services: 1. International Nursing and Midwifery: This lot covers the recruitment of international nurses and midwives, who are essential to healthcare delivery in various settings. 2. International Doctors and Dentists: This lot focuses on sourcing qualified doctors and dentists from overseas to address shortages in these critical areas. 3. International Allied Health Professionals Including Social Workers: This lot facilitates the recruitment of allied health professionals, including roles such as physiotherapists, radiographers, and social workers. 4. International OSCE Training Support Services: This lot provides support services for Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) training, ensuring internationally recruited staff meet UK practice standards. 5. International Candidate Pastoral Support: This lot offers pastoral support services to assist international candidates in their transition to working and living in the UK, ensuring their well-being and integration.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to suppliers with expertise in international recruitment for the healthcare sector. Suitable suppliers include those with a proven track record in sourcing and placing international healthcare professionals, as well as those offering ancillary services such as training and pastoral care. While the framework is not a DPS, meaning it has a fixed term and a defined list of suppliers, those interested in participating should ensure they meet the specific requirements set out by NHS Commercial Solutions.
Buyer Benefits
For public sector buyers, this framework offers several advantages. It ensures compliance with recruitment regulations and ethical standards, providing peace of mind that all processes are conducted within the legal framework. The framework also enables quicker access to a pool of qualified international candidates, reducing the time to market and potentially lowering recruitment costs. By fostering competition among pre-approved suppliers, the framework encourages high-quality service delivery and value for money.
Lots
Lot 1: International nursing and midwifery Covers the recruitment and placement of international nursing and midwifery professionals. Lot 2: International doctors and dentists Covers the recruitment and placement of international doctors and dentists. Lot 3: International allied health professionals including social workers Covers the recruitment and placement of international allied health professionals, including social workers. Lot 4: International OSCE training support services Provides support services for international candidates preparing for OSCE training. Lot 5: International candidate pastoral support Offers pastoral support services for international candidates.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating in this framework should carefully review the requirements and consider contacting NHS Commercial Solutions directly for further information. Engaging with the contracting authority will provide clarity on eligibility criteria, application processes, and any upcoming opportunities to join the framework in the future.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable is here to assist suppliers in navigating the complexities of public sector frameworks like the International Healthcare Professional Recruitment and Associated Services. We offer support in discovering relevant frameworks, preparing necessary documentation, and maintaining visibility of upcoming opportunities. Our aim is to ensure that suppliers are well-prepared and aware of their next steps in the procurement landscape.