Explore how NHS procurement leaders can adapt to the new Medium-Term Planning Framework (2026-29). From annual contracts to long-term partnerships that deliver transformation & performance.
The NHS Medium-Term Planning Framework is reshaping how the system plans, spends and delivers. For procurement leaders, it’s an opportunity to think bigger and to move from transaction to transformation.
If you work in NHS procurement, the new Medium-Term Planning Framework (2026–29) isn’t just another policy document, it’s your roadmap for the next three years.
For too long, we’ve been caught in annual contracting cycles. Reacting to budgets, responding to pressures and renewing what already exists. This framework finally gives the NHS space to breathe and to plan ahead, align strategy with spend and build partnerships that last.
It’s more than operational reform, it’s a shift in mindset.
Multi-year planning means procurement can drive system outcomes, not just savings. Here’s what that looks like in practice:
Key Shifts to Watch:
- Think long-term, not one-year.
Multi-year funding allows procurement to align contracts with transformation goals. Move from ‘what can we afford this year?’ to ‘what delivers real impact over three?’.
- Buy for prevention and digital-first delivery.
Growth is happening in community care, prevention & digital services. Build those into your category plans early.
- Balance recovery & reform.
Procurement has to deliver short-term performance improvements and enable long-term change. Contracts should reward both efficiency and innovation.
- Map the new decision makers.
Influence is shifting toward ICB’s, regions, and neighbourhood teams. Build relationships where future decisions will actually be made.
- Look for supplier partnerships, not transactions.
Frameworks are evolving into long-term collaborations. Value flexibility, innovation and shared outcomes, not just lowest price.
- Build in governance and resilience.
As autonomy grows, so does risk. Procurement must champion data security, interoperability & financial discipline at every stage.
Your Clear Roadmap:
Five Questions to Ask Your Suppliers Now:
- Can you commit to a 3-5 year roadmap, not just a 12-month plan?
- How do you help us digitise, analyse and adapt faster?
- What measurable productivity gains can you prove?
- Can your contract flex as the system evolves?
- How do you enable prevention, not just service delivery?
How the Best Practice Model Looks:
In short, the MTPF gives us breathing space but also raises the bar. Procurement needs to be bolder, earlier and more strategic. The future isn’t about running tenders faster, it’s about shaping how the NHS collaborates with its partners for the long term.
