Provision of Medical Gases
Introduction
The Provision of Medical Gases framework, managed by NHS Commercial Solutions, is designed to streamline the procurement of essential medical gases for healthcare providers across the UK. This framework, which will remain active until 30 November 2024, consolidates previously separate contracts into a single, comprehensive agreement. It supports the NHS and related healthcare entities in acquiring medical gas cylinders and medical liquid oxygen, crucial for patient care and the smooth operation of healthcare facilities.
Context & Use Case
The medical sector relies heavily on a consistent and reliable supply of medical gases for various applications, including respiratory therapies, anaesthesia, and other critical care processes. This framework has been established to address the logistical and procurement challenges faced by healthcare providers in accessing these essential resources. By amalgamating the supply of medical gas cylinders and liquid oxygen, the framework simplifies the purchasing process, ensuring that hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities can maintain uninterrupted care for patients. Contracting authorities within the NHS and associated healthcare organisations utilise this framework to secure a dependable source of medical gases, enhancing operational efficacy and patient outcomes.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into two main lots, each covering distinct aspects of medical gas provision: 1. Lot 1 – Medical Gas Cylinders: This lot pertains to the supply and delivery of various types of medical gas cylinders, which are vital for therapeutic and clinical use in healthcare settings. 2. Lot 2 – Medical Liquid Oxygen: This lot focuses on the procurement of medical liquid oxygen, a critical resource for maintaining adequate oxygen levels in healthcare environments, supporting respiratory treatments and other medical procedures. These services ensure that healthcare providers have access to high-quality medical gases necessary for effective patient care.
Who Can Apply
The framework is open to suppliers within the medical gas sector who can demonstrate the capability to deliver high standards of quality and reliability. This includes manufacturers and distributors who specialise in medical gas cylinders or liquid oxygen. Suppliers interested in participating must meet the stringent requirements set forth by NHS Commercial Solutions, ensuring they can consistently provide essential medical gases to healthcare providers.
Buyer Benefits
Public sector buyers benefit significantly from using this framework due to its compliance with procurement regulations, ensuring adherence to legal and ethical purchasing standards. The framework offers a streamlined process, reducing the time and administrative burden typically associated with procuring medical gases. It also promotes healthy competition among suppliers, which can lead to more favourable pricing and service terms for healthcare organisations. The framework's structure allows for efficient market engagement, enabling healthcare providers to respond quickly to changing demands and ensuring a steady supply of critical 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 this framework should carefully review the specific requirements and conditions outlined by NHS Commercial Solutions. Direct contact with the contracting authority is recommended to gain a comprehensive understanding of the application process and to ensure alignment with the framework's objectives and standards.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable serves as a valuable resource for suppliers navigating the public sector procurement landscape. By offering insights into framework opportunities and providing guidance on the application process, Biddable helps suppliers prepare effectively and maintain visibility in the procurement pipeline. Our services are designed to support suppliers in making informed decisions and optimising their engagement with public sector frameworks.