Decontamination Services and Solutions Surgical Instrumentation
Introduction
The Decontamination Services and Solutions Surgical Instrumentation Framework, managed by NHS Shared Business Services, is a critical procurement route designed to support NHS facilities in providing safe and efficient surgical care. This framework, which extends until March 2027, is not a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) but a structured agreement offering a range of solutions to meet the decontamination needs of surgical instruments and equipment. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining high standards of hygiene and operational efficiency within medical environments.
Context & Use Case
With a growing demand for surgical procedures, evidenced by the 6.5 million patients waiting for treatment as of November 2023, the NHS is under pressure to enhance its operational capabilities. The establishment of surgical hubs is part of the solution, requiring rapid access to sterilised instruments to address treatment backlogs effectively. This framework ensures that NHS facilities can access comprehensive decontamination services that are vital for patient safety and the smooth running of surgical operations. By offering managed and contingency decontamination services, as well as repair and replacement of surgical tools, the framework assists in alleviating bottlenecks in surgical schedules.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into four distinct lots, each catering to specific decontamination and instrumentation needs: 1. Lot 1 – Managed Decontamination Service: Offers complete outsourcing solutions for the sterilisation of surgical instruments, allowing NHS facilities to focus on core healthcare services. 2. Lot 2 – Contingency Decontamination Services: Provides additional decontamination capacity during emergencies or periods of high demand, ensuring continuity of service. 3. Lot 3 – Repair and Replacement of Surgical Instruments: Facilitates the maintenance and replacement of surgical tools, ensuring they meet operational standards and compliance. 4. Lot 4 – Equipment for the Reprocessing of High-Level Disinfection of Probes: Specialised services for cleaning and sterilising high-level disinfection probes, crucial for specific medical procedures.
Who Can Apply
The framework is suitable for suppliers with expertise in medical decontamination services and solutions. Companies involved in the sterilisation of surgical instruments, provision of medical equipment, or those offering repair and maintenance services for surgical tools may find this framework particularly relevant. As this is not a DPS, the application process is fixed during the framework’s life.
Buyer Benefits
For public sector buyers, this framework provides a streamlined procurement process that adheres to regulatory compliance and promotes best practices in hygiene and cost management. The framework facilitates quick access to essential services, which is crucial for maintaining surgical schedules and enhancing patient care. By leveraging competitive pricing and specialised services, NHS facilities can achieve both operational efficiency and financial sustainability.
Lots
Lot 1: Managed Decontamination Service This lot covers services related to the management of decontamination processes. Lot 2: Contingency Decontamination Services This lot includes services for decontamination in contingency situations. Lot 3: Repair and Replacement of Surgical Instruments This lot focuses on the repair and replacement of surgical instruments. Lot 4: Equipment for the Reprocessing of High-Level Disinfection of Probes This lot provides equipment for the reprocessing and high-level disinfection of probes.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating in this framework should carefully review the detailed requirements and scope of services to ensure alignment with their capabilities. Engaging directly with NHS Shared Business Services will provide further insights into the application process and potential opportunities within the framework.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable is committed to supporting suppliers in navigating public sector frameworks like the Decontamination Services and Solutions Surgical Instrumentation Framework. We offer resources to help suppliers discover relevant opportunities, prepare thorough applications, and maintain visibility of their procurement pipeline. By partnering with Biddable, suppliers can enhance their understanding and readiness for public sector procurement processes.