Author: ECD5159

The Procurement Act 2023 marks a significant overhaul of the UK’s public procurement system, aiming to make the process simpler, more transparent, and better aligned with the country’s economic, social, and environmental goals. This article explores the key points of the National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) in relation to the new Act and its impact on the public education sector, including higher education institutions, schools, and colleges. Additionally, we will discuss how HealthTrust Europe supports this sector in complying with the new legislation and the co-existing Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR2015).

 

Key Points of the National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS)

1.Economic Growth:

• • Support for SMEs and Social Enterprises: The NPPS emphasises maximising procurement spend with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSEs) to drive local economic growth and create high-quality jobs.
  • Innovation: Encourages early market engagement and the adoption of innovative solutions to improve public sector performance and support UK companies.

 

2.Environmental Sustainability:

• • Net Zero and Green Technologies: Procurement processes will prioritise reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimising waste, and promoting the use of green technologies to support the UK’s net zero targets.
  • Environmental Standards: Suppliers are expected to adhere to high environmental standards, protecting natural habitats and biodiversity.

 

3.Social Value:

• • Community Cohesion and Employment: Procurement will support organisations that strengthen community cohesion and provide employment opportunities for underrepresented groups.
  • Skills Development: Focus on addressing skills gaps and facilitating access to training and development opportunities.

 

4.Value for Money:

• • Efficiency and Effectiveness: Contracting authorities must ensure procurement processes deliver value for money by balancing effectiveness, efficiency, and economy over the lifecycle of products and services.
  • Transparency: The Act enhances transparency in public procurement, allowing better visibility of contract performance and fostering competition.

 

5.Capability and Standards:

• • Commercial Capability: Emphasis on building the right commercial capability within contracting authorities to manage contracts effectively and collaborate for best value.
  • Ethical Conduct: Suppliers must demonstrate integrity, ethical conduct, and compliance with legal obligations, including tackling bribery, corruption, and modern slavery.

 

Impact on the Public Education Sector

The Procurement Act 2023 introduces several changes that will significantly impact the public education sector, including higher education institutions, schools, and colleges.

 

1.Simplified Procurement Processes:

• • The Act consolidates various procurement regimes into a single framework, making the process simpler and more efficient for educational institutions. This will reduce administrative burdens and allow schools and colleges to focus more on their core educational missions.

 

2.Enhanced Transparency and Accountability:

• • Educational institutions will need to comply with new reporting and notification requirements, ensuring greater transparency in procurement activities. This includes publishing notices on contract awards, changes, and performance.

 

3.Support for SMEs and Innovation:

• • By prioritising procurement spend with SMEs and encouraging innovation, the Act aims to create more opportunities for small businesses and innovative solutions in the education sector. This can lead to improved educational resources and services.

 

4.Focus on Social Value and Sustainability:

• • The Act emphasises the importance of delivering social and economic value, which includes supporting community cohesion and providing employment opportunities for underrepresented groups. Educational institutions will need to consider these factors in their procurement decisions.

 

5.Building Commercial Capability:

• • The Act highlights the need for contracting authorities to have the right commercial capability and standards in place. This means that educational institutions will need to invest in training and development to ensure their procurement teams are equipped to manage contracts effectively.

 

HealthTrust Europe’s Role in Assisting the Education Sector

HealthTrust Europe (HTE) plays a crucial role in helping the public education sector comply with the new Procurement Act 2023 and the co-existing PCR2015. Here’s how HTE supports educational institutions:

 

1.Framework Agreements:

• • HTE offers a wide range of free-to-access compliant framework agreements that simplify the procurement process for educational institutions. These frameworks provide access to pre-approved suppliers, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and saving time and resources. Our teams work as an extension of your procurement team, providing free resource to undertake competitive procedures, ensuring you can deliver more with less.

 

2.Compliance and Ethical Standards:

• • HTE ensures that all suppliers meet the highest standards for quality, sustainability, and compliance with UK procurement laws, including the Procurement Act 2023 and PCR2015. This gives educational institutions confidence in the continuity and integrity of their supply chains.

 

3.Skills and Guidance:

• • HTE assists your procurement team to enhance their commercial capability within educational institutions. This includes undertaking competitive procedures and providing guidance on the new flexibilities introduced by the Procurement Act 2023 and contract management skills.

 

4.Support for SMEs and Innovation:

• • By leveraging its partnerships with SMEs and VCSEs, HTE aligns with the NPPS’s focus on driving economic growth and creating high-quality jobs. HTE also practices and encourages early market engagement to support innovative solutions.

 

5.Focus on Social Value and Sustainability:

• • HTE helps educational institutions prioritise suppliers committed to reducing environmental impact and delivering social value. This aligns with the Government’s net zero and sustainability goals.

 

In conclusion, the Procurement Act 2023 brings significant changes to the public procurement landscape, impacting the education sector by simplifying processes, enhancing transparency, and emphasising social value and sustainability.

HealthTrust Europe supports educational institutions in navigating these changes, ensuring compliance with the new legislation and the existing PCR2015, and contributing to broader governmental goals.

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, interoperability has become a critical component for delivering high-quality, patient-centred care. Interoperability refers to the ability of different healthcare systems, devices, and applications to access, exchange, and use health information seamlessly and securely. This capability is essential for optimising health outcomes, enhancing patient safety, and improving the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery.

The Importance of Interoperability

Interoperability in healthcare enables clinicians to deliver safe and effective care by providing timely access to comprehensive patient information. It allows healthcare providers to coordinate care more effectively, reducing the risk of medical errors and ensuring that patients receive the right treatment at the right time. Additionally, interoperability empowers patients and caregivers by giving them access to their electronic health information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their care.

Key Components of Interoperability

1. Standards and Technology: The foundation of interoperability lies in the adoption of standardised data formats and communication protocols. The NHS Digital Interoperability Toolkit provides guidelines and standards to ensure that healthcare systems can interact effectively. The toolkit supports the alignment with NHS Digital interoperability requirements, ensuring that solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of the NHS. Additionally, the UK GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) plays a crucial role in governing the processing and sharing of personal health data, ensuring compliance with data protection standards.
2. Policy and Governance in the UK: Effective interoperability in the UK requires a robust policy framework and governance structure. The NHS Digital Interoperability Toolkit provides guidelines and standards to ensure that healthcare systems can interact effectively. The toolkit supports the alignment with NHS Digital interoperability requirements, ensuring that solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of the NHS. Additionally, the UK GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) plays a crucial role in governing the processing and sharing of personal health data, ensuring compliance with data protection standards.
3. Investments and Initiatives: Advancing interoperability involves significant investments in technology and infrastructure. Programmes like LEAP in Health IT tackle emerging challenges and develop new standards, methods, and tools to improve care delivery and research capabilities. These initiatives support the creation of a more connected and efficient healthcare ecosystem.

Benefits of Interoperability

Interoperability offers numerous benefits that significantly enhance the healthcare system:

1. Improved Patient Safety: By providing healthcare providers with access to comprehensive patient information, interoperability reduces the risk of medical errors and ensures that patients receive the right treatment at the right time. This leads to better patient outcomes and increased safety.
2. Enhanced Care Coordination: Interoperability enables seamless communication and data exchange between different healthcare providers, facilitating better care coordination. This is particularly important for patients with chronic conditions who require care from multiple specialists.
3. Increased Efficiency: Interoperability streamlines administrative processes and reduces the need for manual data entry, leading to increased efficiency and reduced operational costs. Healthcare providers can focus more on patient care rather than paperwork.
4. Empowered Patients: Interoperability gives patients and caregivers access to their electronic health information, enabling them to make informed decisions about their care. This promotes patient engagement and self-management of health conditions.
5. Support for Public Health Initiatives: Interoperability facilitates the collection and analysis of health data, supporting public health initiatives such as disease surveillance, health equity, and emergency response. Comprehensive and timely data is essential for addressing public health challenges effectively.
6. Innovation and Research: By enabling seamless data exchange, interoperability drives innovation and supports research efforts. Researchers can access a wealth of health data to develop new treatments, improve care delivery, and advance medical knowledge.
7. Cost Savings: Interoperability reduces duplication of services and unnecessary tests, leading to significant cost savings for healthcare providers and patients. It also minimises the administrative burden associated with managing health information.

HealthTrust Europe ICT Solutions 3 Framework

The HealthTrust Europe ICT team plays a pivotal supplier agnostic role in supporting buyers from sourcing to accessing suppliers and providing free resources to run mini competitions via the ICT Solutions 3 framework. This framework is designed to deliver comprehensive ICT solutions that fulfil the diverse requirements of healthcare organisations.

HealthTrust Europe collaborates with industry-leading suppliers for the ICT Framework Agreement, which provides a single point of access to any and every solution in the IT world. These suppliers adhere to specific standards and possess accreditations that signify compliance with best practices in the Information Communication Technology industry. This includes areas such as information security management, software provision, disaster recovery, data protection, quality, risk management, environmental protection, and compliance.

The ICT Solutions 3 framework offers a single point of access and accountability when procuring solutions. It provides access to a range of purchase options and value-added benefits, including storage and logistics, configuration, finance, Device as a Service (DaaS), and leasing. This enables participating members to update their ICT estate in a way that best meets their individual needs or the needs of their overarching organisation.

HealthTrust Europe also offers an ICT Buy Desk, which helps buyers purchase off-the-shelf or bespoke hardware, software, and services at significant discounts through aggregated purchasing power. The Buy Desk uses a blend of traditional online catalogues with pre-negotiated pricing, tendering methodologies, and e-auctions to deliver demonstrable cost savings and operational efficiencies.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the benefits of interoperability are clear, achieving it is not without challenges. Information blocking, where healthcare actors interfere with the access, exchange, or use of electronic health information, remains a significant barrier. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration across the healthcare industry, including policymakers, technology developers, and healthcare providers.

Despite these challenges, the opportunities presented by interoperability are immense. By enabling seamless data exchange, interoperability can drive innovation, improve patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs. It also supports public health initiatives, such as health equity and emergency response, by providing comprehensive and timely data.

Conclusion

Interoperability is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, enabling the seamless exchange of information that is vital for delivering high-quality care. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, embracing interoperability will be essential for improving patient outcomes, enhancing care coordination, and driving innovation. By working together to overcome challenges and invest in interoperable solutions, we can create a more connected and efficient healthcare system for all.

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity has become a critical concern for the public sector. With the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure and the growing sophistication of cyber threats, it is essential for public sector organisations to prioritise cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and ensure the continuity of essential services.

The Importance of Cybersecurity in the Public Sector

The public sector, encompassing government departments, local authorities, healthcare, and public service organisations, holds vast amounts of sensitive information. This data ranges from personal details of citizens to critical national infrastructure information. A breach in cybersecurity can lead to severe consequences, including data theft, financial loss, and disruption of public services. Therefore, robust cybersecurity measures are vital to safeguard this information and maintain public trust.

Current Cybersecurity Landscape

The UK government has recognised the importance of cybersecurity and has implemented various initiatives to enhance the nation’s cyber resilience. According to the Cyber Security Sectoral Analysis 2024, the UK’s cybersecurity sector has shown significant growth, with a 13% increase in sector revenue and the creation of 2,700 new jobs. The establishment of the National Cyber Force in Lancashire is a strategic investment aimed at bolstering the UK’s capabilities to address and mitigate cyber threats.

Challenges Faced by the Public Sector

Despite these efforts, the public sector continues to face numerous challenges in cybersecurity. Budget constraints, outdated infrastructure, interoperability, and a shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals are some of the key issues. Additionally, the public sector is a prime target for cyber attackers, including state-sponsored groups and hacktivists, who seek to exploit vulnerabilities for financial gain or political leverage.

Strategies for Enhancing Cybersecurity

To address these challenges, public sector organisations must adopt a multi-faceted approach to cybersecurity. Here are some key strategies:

1. Invest in Modern Infrastructure: Upgrading outdated systems and investing in modern, secure infrastructure is crucial. This includes implementing advanced firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption technologies.
2. Employee Training and Awareness: Human error is a significant factor in cybersecurity breaches. Regular training and awareness programmes can help employees recognise and respond to potential threats effectively.
3. Collaboration and Information Sharing: Public sector organisations should collaborate with each other and with private sector partners to share information about threats and best practices. Initiatives like the UK Cyber Security Council and the CyberFirst programme are instrumental in fostering such collaboration.
4. Adopt a Preventative Approach: A preventative approach to cybersecurity, as advocated by Check Point’s strategy, can enhance end-to-end protection and reduce reliance on multiple security vendors.

The Role of AI in Enhancing Cybersecurity

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly vital role in enhancing cybersecurity within the UK public sector. AI technologies can significantly improve threat detection, response times, and overall security posture. Here are some ways AI is making a difference:

• Advanced Threat Detection: AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a cyber threat. This enables quicker detection of potential attacks and reduces the time it takes to respond.
• Automated Response: AI can automate responses to certain types of cyber threats, such as isolating affected systems or blocking malicious traffic. This helps to mitigate the impact of an attack and ensures that security measures are implemented swiftly.
• Predictive Analytics: By analysing historical data, AI can predict potential future threats and vulnerabilities. This allows organisations to proactively address security weaknesses before they can be exploited.
• Enhanced User Authentication: AI can improve user authentication processes by analysing behavioural patterns and detecting unusual activities that may indicate unauthorised access.

For more information on cybersecurity solutions, contact one of our independent IT team experts to discuss your needs and options to support your journey in a compliant pathway.

HealthTrust Europe ICT Solutions 3 Framework

The HealthTrust Europe ICT team plays a pivotal supplier agnostic role in supporting buyers from sourcing to accessing suppliers and providing free resources to run mini competitions via the ICT Solutions 3 framework. This framework is designed to deliver comprehensive ICT solutions that fulfil the diverse requirements of healthcare organisations.

HealthTrust Europe collaborates with industry-leading suppliers for the ICT Framework Agreement, which provides a single point of access to any and every solution in the IT world. These suppliers adhere to specific standards and possess accreditations that signify compliance with best practices in the Information Communication Technology industry. This includes areas such as information security management, software provision, disaster recovery, data protection, quality, risk management, environmental protection, and compliance.

The ICT Solutions 3 framework offers a single point of access and accountability when procuring solutions. It provides access to a range of purchase options and value-added benefits, including storage and logistics, configuration, finance, Device as a Service (DaaS), and leasing. This enables participating members to update their ICT estate in a way that best meets their individual needs or the needs of their overarching organisation.

HealthTrust Europe also offers an ICT Buy Desk, which helps buyers purchase off-the-shelf or bespoke hardware, software, and services at significant discounts through aggregated purchasing power. The Buy Desk uses a blend of traditional online catalogues with pre-negotiated pricing, tendering methodologies, and e-auctions to deliver demonstrable cost savings and operational efficiencies.

By leveraging these resources and implementing robust cybersecurity measures, the UK public sector can enhance its resilience against cyber threats and ensure the security of its digital infrastructure.

 

 

 

As we approach the end of 2024, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude and warmest wishes to all our valued customers and suppliers. This year has been filled with challenges and triumphs, and your unwavering support and collaboration have been instrumental in our shared success.

Reflecting on 2024

2024 has been a year of significant growth and innovation for HealthTrust Europe. Since joining the business in February, I have been continually inspired by our partners’ and team members’ dedication and commitment. In healthcare, we have navigated the complexities of the healthcare landscape, supporting our NHS colleagues and striving to deliver the highest quality care and services to patients across the UK.

Across the wider public sector we have worked closely with our customers to help deliver their mission of providing great services to our communities.

And it has been a great pleasure to work with our commercial sector clients, providing procurement expertise and support to achieve business efficiencies and value for their customers.

Your efforts have been remarkable, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together.

Throughout the year, we have shared many key activities and milestones on our social media channels, including:

Launch of Our New Portfolio Performance Service: Our Managed Service offering provides end-to-end portfolio management to transform our customers’ procurement processes and deliver unmatched value and efficiency.

Launch of our Total Workforce Solutions III (TWS III) Suite of Frameworks, offering bespoke solutions for healthcare recruitment needs.

Employee Development, Health and Wellbeing Initiatives: We continue to create an environment that supports our employees’ health and wellbeing. This year, we have introduced our leadership Development and Menopause Champion programmes and continue to invest in our Mental Health First Aid programme to drive this forward.

Partnerships and collaborations: We have been privileged to forge and strengthen key partnerships and collaborations that have significantly contributed to our mission of enhancing healthcare services. Through our partnership with Mid and South Essex (MSE) NHS Foundation Trust and as a Corporate Partner of the Healthcare Supply Association (HCSA), we have supported their work in driving procurement excellence and innovation across the NHS. Additionally, collaborations such as our regular forums with the West Midlands Pharmacy Group underscore our commitment to fostering strategic partnerships that deliver value and improve healthcare procurement and delivery across the UK.

Community Engagement: Our team has been actively involved in various community projects, supporting local projects through our employee volunteering programme and also raising funds to support the valuable work performed by our 2024 chosen charity, Young at Heart.

Recognition on G-Cloud 14 Framework: We were honoured to be named as a supplier on the Crown Commercial Service’s G-Cloud 14 framework, highlighting our commitment to providing innovative and secure technology solutions.

Industry Events and Conferences: We have participated in numerous industry events, including P4H 2024, Procurex National 2024, HFMA 2024, Women in Procurement and HCSA 2024, sharing insights and collaborating with other healthcare leaders to drive innovation and improve patient care. I especially enjoyed the Keynote session delivered by our Vice President for International Development, Ben Koberna, at HCSA 2024.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we head towards 2025, I am excited about the opportunities ahead. We will continue to focus on driving value, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation in healthcare procurement. Our goal remains steadfast: to support the financial sustainability of the NHS and improve patient outcomes through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions. I am excited about sharing our plans with our valued customers and suppliers in the new year.

A Time for Gratitude

The holiday season is a time for reflection and gratitude. On behalf of the entire HealthTrust Europe team, I wish you and your loved ones a joyous holiday season and a prosperous New Year. May this festive season bring you peace, happiness, and a well-deserved rest. We look forward to continuing our journey together in 2025, working hand in hand to achieve even greater success.

 

Warmest regards,

 

Gary Welch

Chief Executive Officer, HealthTrust Europe

 

 

Framework agreements are a vital tool in public sector procurement, offering a streamlined, compliant, and efficient way for organisations to purchase goods, services, or works. At HealthTrust Europe, we specialise in providing OJEU-compliant frameworks that simplify procurement while delivering exceptional value, quality and resource to support sourcing and procurement teams.

 

What Is a Framework Agreement?

A framework agreement is a pre-established contract between one or more buyers (such as public sector organisations) and suppliers. It sets out the terms, conditions, and pricing for procuring specific goods, services, or works over a defined period. Frameworks act as a compliant procurement route, enabling public sector organisations to avoid the lengthy process of going to market for every requirement, which devours resource and time.

 

Key Features of Framework Agreements

Pre-approved Suppliers: Only suppliers that meet strict quality and compliance standards are included.

Flexibility: Organisations can call off (purchase) goods or services as needed, without having to start a new procurement process.

Defined Terms: Pricing, service levels, and delivery conditions are pre-negotiated for clarity and consistency.

 

Why Use a Framework Agreement?

Frameworks are designed to make procurement faster, easier, and more compliant. They offer a host of benefits:

1.Time Savings

Frameworks eliminate the need for a full procurement process every time an organisation requires a product or service. Instead, public sector bodies can quickly “call off” what they need from the framework.

2.Value for Money

Frameworks leverage the collective buying power of multiple organisations to secure competitive pricing and favourable terms.

3.Legal Compliance

All HealthTrust Europe frameworks are fully compliant with UK procurement laws, including the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and gradually the more recent Procurement Act 2023.

4.Trusted Suppliers

Suppliers undergo a rigorous selection process, ensuring they meet high standards for quality, sustainability, and compliance, giving you confidence in continuity of supply.

5.Simplified Procurement

Frameworks are particularly effective for complex or high-value procurements, offering pre-negotiated terms and reducing administrative burdens. (See Case Studies Here)

 

Types of Framework Agreements

Frameworks can vary in structure and scope depending on the needs of the organisation. At HealthTrust Europe, we provide:

• Single-Supplier Frameworks: Ideal for specialised needs where a single supplier can provide the best solution.
• Multi-Supplier Frameworks: Offering a range of approved suppliers to encourage competition and choice.
• Direct Award or Mini-Competition: Organisations can either directly select a supplier or run a mini-competition among framework suppliers for more tailored solutions. HTE will often run these mini-competitions on behalf of the authority with no charge to save valuable resource and time.

 

HealthTrust Europe’s Framework Expertise

As a trusted procurement partner to the public sector, HealthTrust Europe offers a portfolio of over 100 innovative and flexible frameworks designed to deliver measurable value. Our frameworks cover a wide range of categories, including:

• Healthcare Supplies and Services
• Technology and all IT Solutions
• Facilities Management
• Consultancy and Legal Services

 

How We Support You

• End-to-End Guidance: From selecting the right framework to managing call-offs, our procurement experts are here to assist and support every step of the way.
• Cost Savings: We help organisations unlock significant financial efficiencies through our competitive frameworks.
• Sustainability: All our frameworks prioritise socially responsible and environmentally sustainable sourcing.
• Technology-Driven Solutions: With advanced tools, we simplify and automate the call-off process for our clients.
• Free Resource: From specification to running mini-competitions, our support saves you time and valuable resource, so you can focus on other priorities.

 

The Process: Using a HealthTrust Europe Framework

1. Identify Your Needs: Determine what goods or services you require.
2. Choose the Framework: Select the most appropriate HealthTrust Europe framework for your needs.
3. Call-Off Options: Decide whether to use direct award or conduct a mini-competition.
4. Contract Award: Place your order with the selected supplier and benefit from the pre-agreed terms.
5. Ongoing Support: HealthTrust Europe remains available for guidance throughout the life of the agreement.

 

Why Choose HealthTrust Europe?

At HealthTrust Europe, we are committed to delivering procurement solutions that are efficient, compliant, and value-driven. Our Unified Hub makes it easy to access all your information and contracts with one login. Our frameworks provide:

• Access to trusted suppliers.
• Simplified procurement processes.
• Significant cost savings.
• Expert guidance and ongoing support.

 

Get Started Today

Whether you’re procuring for healthcare, technology, or professional services, HealthTrust Europe’s framework agreements offer the ideal solution. Contact us today to learn more about how our frameworks can help you achieve your procurement goals.

 

By Phone: +44 (0)845 887 5000

By Email:   customercare@htepg.com

Unified Hub: Unified Hub – HealthTrust Europe

 

Public sector procurement plays a crucial role in delivering value for taxpayers and ensuring public services have access to the goods, services, and solutions they need to operate effectively. At HealthTrust Europe (HTE), we are proud to be at the forefront of innovative, ethical, and efficient procurement practices tailored to the unique needs of the public sector.

 

What Is Public Sector Procurement?

Public sector procurement is the process by which public sector organisations, (definition here) including government departments, NHS trusts, and local authorities, acquire goods, services, and works. This process must comply with specific regulations and legal frameworks to ensure transparency, fairness, and value for money.

 

The Importance of Public Sector Procurement

• Accountability: Ensures public funds are spent responsibly.
• Efficiency: Supports the delivery of essential services to communities.
• Compliance: Meets legal requirements, such as the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and UK procurement law.
• Sustainability: Encourages ethical sourcing and long-term value.

 

Key Principles of Public Sector Procurement

At HealthTrust Europe, we adhere to the fundamental principles that govern public procurement:

• Transparency: Ensuring all processes are open and clear to stakeholders.
• Equal Treatment: Providing a level playing field for all suppliers.
• Proportionality: Making procurement decisions that match the scale and complexity of the requirement.
• Non-Discrimination: Treating all suppliers fairly, regardless of their location or background

 

The Public Sector Procurement Process

Procurement in the public sector typically follows a structured process. Here’s how it works:

1.Needs Identification: Organisations identify the goods, services, or works required to meet their operational needs.

2.Market Engagement: Early engagement with the market to understand supplier capabilities and potential solutions.

3.Tendering: A competitive process where suppliers submit bids in response to a specification.

4.Evaluation: Proposals are evaluated based on quality, cost, and other criteria.

5.Award: Contracts are awarded to the supplier offering the best overall value.

6.Contract Management: Ensuring the supplier delivers against agreed terms, managing risks, and maintaining performance.

 

Framework Agreements: Simplifying Procurement

Framework agreements are a cornerstone of efficient public sector procurement. These pre-negotiated agreements provide organisations with access to a pool of trusted suppliers, saving time and ensuring compliance.

 

Why Choose a Framework Agreement?

• Speed: Avoid lengthy procurement processes by using pre-approved suppliers.
• Value: Leverage competitive pricing and economies of scale.
• Compliance: Operate within established legal frameworks.

HealthTrust Europe offers a wide portfolio of OJEU-compliant frameworks that cover diverse needs, from Healthcare and IT services to Workforce/HR, Legal Services and Consultancy. (See Case Studies Here)

Cost Savings: Achieving measurable financial efficiencies for our partners.

Expert Guidance: Providing tailored advice on procurement strategy and best practices.

Resource: Our specialists support you throughout the process and undertake mini-competitions on your behalf, saving valuable time and ensuring delivery of projects.

Technology-Driven Solutions: Utilising innovative tools and technology, like reverse auctions to streamline processes.

Sustainability: Supporting environmentally and socially responsible sourcing.

Portfolio Performance Service: HTE’s Managed Service offering employs a complete portfolio management strategy, focusing on optimising processes and enhancing efficiency. This helps you deliver more with less.  (Learn more here)

 

Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Standards

HealthTrust Europe ensures full compliance with key legislation, including:

Public Contracts Regulations 2015 & Procurement Act 2023: Governs how public sector organisations procure goods and services.

Social Value Act 2012: Encourages consideration of economic, social, and environmental impacts in procurement.

UK Government Procurement Policy Notes (PPN’s): Provides up-to-date guidance on priorities and policies.

 

Why Partner with HealthTrust Europe?

Choosing HealthTrust Europe as your procurement partner means accessing a wealth of resources, expertise, and a commitment to excellence. We are trusted by public sector organisations across the UK for our ability to:

• Streamline procurement processes.
• Deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Provide FREE resource to undertake mini-competitions.
• Navigate regulatory complexities with ease.
• Provide innovative, technology-led solutions.

 

Get in Touch

To learn more about how HealthTrust Europe can support your procurement needs, contact us today. Let us help you unlock the full potential of public sector procurement with solutions that deliver lasting value and provide resource to power your procurement teams delivery.

 

By Phone: +44 (0)845 887 5000

By Email:   customercare@htepg.com

Unified Hub: Unified Hub – HealthTrust Europe

The Procurement Act 2023 marks a significant evolution in the way public sector procurement is conducted in the UK. At HealthTrust Europe, we are committed to supporting suppliers in understanding and navigating the changes introduced by this legislation. By aligning with the new rules, suppliers can unlock opportunities to work more effectively with public sector organisations while contributing to better outcomes for communities. The Act introduces a new concept of an ‘Open’ framework with a maximum duration of 8 years and allows suppliers to be awarded to, and bid for opportunities during the lifetime of the framework.

 

• What Is the Procurement Act 2023?

The Procurement Act 2023 replaces previous EU-derived procurement regulations, streamlining and modernising public sector procurement processes across the UK. The Act aims to make public procurement simpler, more transparent, and better aligned with the UK’s economic, social, and environmental goals.

 

• Key Objectives of the Procurement Act 2023

• • Simplification: Reducing complexity in procurement processes.
  • Transparency: Enhancing visibility and accountability in public spending.
  • Value for Money: Balancing cost-effectiveness with quality and innovation.
  • Inclusivity: Encouraging broader supplier participation, including SMEs.
  • Sustainability: Promoting social value and environmentally responsible procurement practices.

 

• What Does the Procurement Act 2023 Mean for Suppliers?

The Procurement Act introduces several changes that will directly impact how suppliers interact with public sector organisations. Here’s what you need to know:

1.New Procurement Procedures

• The Act introduces three streamlined procedures:
• Open Procedure: A single-stage process for simple procurements.
• Competitive Flexible Procedure: Offers buyers greater flexibility to design procurement processes.
• Limited Tendering Procedure: For use in exceptional cases such as emergencies.

For suppliers, this means fewer rigid processes and more opportunities to showcase innovation and added value.

2.Focus on Transparency

A new central procurement platform will publish all procurement opportunities, award decisions, and contract information. Suppliers will benefit from improved access to opportunities and a more level playing field.

3.Enhanced Feedback

Suppliers will have the right to request detailed feedback on tender decisions, helping them understand how to improve future bids.

4. Proportionality and Inclusivity

The Act emphasises proportionality, ensuring procurement requirements are not unnecessarily burdensome. This change is particularly advantageous for SMEs, start-ups, and niche suppliers seeking entry into public sector markets.

5. Social Value Prioritisation

Suppliers must align their bids with broader social, environmental, and economic goals. This includes demonstrating how their goods or services contribute to sustainability and community benefits. Here is an example for NHS contracts: Learn more about the NHS Evergreen Supplier Assessment Here.

6.Stronger Remedies for Suppliers

The Act introduces more robust remedies for suppliers who feel procurement processes have not been conducted fairly or lawfully. This provides greater confidence in the system.

 

• How HealthTrust Europe Can Support Suppliers

HealthTrust Europe is uniquely positioned to help suppliers succeed in the new procurement landscape. Here’s how we can support you:

1.Understanding the Rules

We provide clear, expert guidance on the requirements of the Procurement Act 2023, ensuring you remain compliant and competitive.

2.Access to Opportunities

As a trusted procurement partner, HealthTrust Europe offers suppliers access to a wide range of public sector frameworks and contracts across multiple categories.

3.Bid Preparation Support

We help suppliers craft compelling bids that highlight value, quality, and alignment with social value objectives.

4.Digital Procurement Tools

Our innovative platforms simplify the tendering process and provide visibility into upcoming opportunities.

5.Feedback and Insights

We offer valuable feedback to help suppliers continuously improve their proposals and adapt to the evolving procurement environment.

 

• Practical Steps for Suppliers

To succeed under the Procurement Act 2023, suppliers should:

1.Stay Informed: Understand the changes and how they apply to your business.

2.Register on Procurement Platforms: Ensure your business is visible on the central procurement platform.

3.Demonstrate Social Value: Clearly articulate how your goods or services align with public sector priorities, such as sustainability and community benefits.

4.Engage with Buyers: Build strong relationships with public sector organisations and frameworks like those offered by HealthTrust Europe.

5.Seek Feedback: Use feedback to refine your bids and enhance your competitiveness.

 

• Partner with HealthTrust Europe

At HealthTrust Europe, we are dedicated to helping suppliers thrive in the public procurement space. By partnering with us, you gain access to expert guidance, innovative solutions, and a trusted network of public sector buyers. Our Unified Hub makes it easy for awarded suppliers to access information and engage effectively and efficiently with us with one login.

 

• Get in Touch

If you’re a supplier looking to navigate the Procurement Act 2023 and seize new opportunities, contact us today. Let HealthTrust Europe be your guide to success in the evolving world of public sector procurement.

By Phone: +44 (0)845 887 5000

By Email:   customercare@htepg.com

 

We’re excited to share that HealthTrust Europe has been named as a supplier on Crown Commercial Service’s (CCS) G-Cloud 14 framework, with our innovative Catalog360 and Easibuy reverse auction platforms on Lot 3 (Cloud Support), as well as our partnership with CereCore on Lot 2 (Cloud Software) for comprehensive Electronic Patient Record (EPR) systems.  This achievement showcases our ongoing commitment to providing scalable, efficient, and effective solutions to public sector healthcare providers across the UK.

The G-Cloud 14 Marketplace goes live on the 9^th November 2024. To learn more about our solutions, visit the current G-Cloud 13 Marketplace here.

As we celebrate National Customer Service Week at HealthTrust Europe, we look ahead to the innovative strategies and technologies that will shape the future of customer service. Our commitment to excellence drives us to continuously evolve and enhance our service delivery, ensuring we meet the ever-changing needs of our clients. Join us as we explore the future of service and celebrate our Customer Care team’s dedication and hard work. We are excited to focus on the theme of “The Future of Service in this article. 

How AI is Shaping Customer Experience 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been steadily transforming industries, and its influence on service sectors is particularly profound. As businesses strive to meet consumers’ growing demands for efficiency, personalisation, and immediacy, AI emerges as a pivotal player. The future of service is not just about enhanced automation; it’s about reimagining customer experiences through intelligent technology. 

Understanding AI in Service 

At its core, AI encompasses technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics, which enable machines to learn from experience and perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. AI can streamline operations, predict customer behaviour, and deliver personalised experiences in the healthcare, retail and hospitality sectors. 

Consider the role of chatbots. Traditionally, customer service relied on human representatives who could be overwhelmed by high volumes of inquiries. Today, AI-powered chatbots can handle thousands of queries simultaneously, providing instant responses. They are not merely reactive; they can analyse previous interactions through machine learning to enhance future responses, making them increasingly efficient and contextually aware. 

Enhancing Customer Experience 

One of the most significant benefits of AI in service is its ability to personalise the customer experience. With advanced data analytics, such as Power BI, businesses can gather and analyse vast customer data to identify preferences and behaviour patterns. This insight allows companies to tailor their offerings to individual customers, fostering a deeper connection. 

For instance, AI can recommend products based on past purchases and retail browsing behaviour. E-commerce giants like Amazon utilise algorithms that analyse user interactions, presenting personalised product recommendations that drive sales and improve customer satisfaction.  

Predictive Service 

Another transformative application of AI in service is predictive analytics. By analysing historical data, AI can forecast future trends and customer needs. For instance, in the hospitality industry, hotels can anticipate demand for specific services or room types based on past booking patterns. This predictive capability allows businesses to optimise staffing, manage inventory, and enhance operational efficiency. 

In healthcare, predictive analytics can identify patients at risk of developing certain conditions, enabling providers to intervene early. By harnessing AI, healthcare systems can shift from reactive to proactive service, improving patient outcomes and reducing costs. 

The Rise of Automation 

While AI enhances personalisation and predictive capabilities, it also drives automation, streamlining service processes. Robotic Process Automation (RPA) can handle repetitive tasks—such as data entry and invoice processing—freeing human employees to focus on more strategic roles. This shift increases efficiency and enhances job satisfaction as employees engage in more meaningful work. 

Automation typically means staff can spend more time on value-adding tasks that can’t be automated, such as customer service and patient care. For pharmacy teams, dispensing robots allow pharmacists to securely dispense medicines to patients and customers. This technology speeds up transactions and reduces human error, providing a seamless experience for customers. A pharmacist is still needed for their medical judgment and expertise, but can focus on patient consultations rather than repetitive tasks. 

Ethical Considerations 

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into service sectors, ethical considerations emerge. Data privacy, algorithmic bias, and job displacement warrant careful attention. Companies must ensure customer data is handled responsibly and transparently, building consumer trust. 

Moreover, the implementation of AI should be approached thoughtfully to mitigate biases inherent in training data. For instance, if an AI system is trained on biased data, it may produce skewed results, impacting decision-making in hiring, lending, or customer interactions. Addressing these ethical challenges is crucial for fostering a fair and inclusive service environment. 

The Human Touch 

Despite the remarkable capabilities of AI, the human element in service remains irreplaceable. Customers value genuine human interaction, especially in complex or sensitive situations. While AI can handle routine inquiries, human representatives are essential for addressing nuanced issues, demonstrating empathy, and building relationships. 

The future of service lies in a balanced integration of AI and human touch. Companies that excel will leverage AI to enhance service delivery while maintaining solid human connections. This hybrid model can create a more responsive and compassionate service landscape. 

Conclusion 

As we look to the future, AI is poised to revolutionise customer care and service-related  industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, personalisation, and predictive capabilities. While embracing these advancements, businesses must also navigate the ethical complexities and ensure that the human touch remains central to their operations. The ultimate goal should be to create a service environment where technology enhances human experiences, leading to satisfied customers and thriving businesses. The future of AI-powered service is not just about technology; it’s about creating meaningful connections and experiences. 

  

Women comprise nearly three-quarters of the NHS workforce and play a critical role in the healthcare industry more broadly. Yet, despite this, senior leadership positions are dominated by men and women continue to face persistent barriers to their career progression.

This can be due to overt barriers that inhibit one’s advancement and those that are more subtle and deeply ingrained into social norms and perceptions around the role of women. This not only has an impact on a woman’s career prospects but also has broader implications for the way that health and care services are delivered across the country. Indeed, the lack of women in senior leadership positions affects policy decisions and, therefore, health outcomes.

Creating safe and open spaces where women can come together to have honest discussions about their experiences as members of the healthcare workforce is crucial to overcoming these challenges and establishing a truly inclusive industry, with opportunities for all its workers at all levels.

At HealthTrust Europe, we are committed to being the change we wish to see. With 55% of our employees being women, and women comprising 57% of colleagues in sourcing management positions and 44% of our Executive Leadership, we have a strong track record of supporting women into senior leadership roles. We are dedicated to using our resources to advocate for other organizations to make similar progress.

We are proud partners to the Health Care Supply Association (HCSA) whose new Women’s Network has been transforming the sector by encouraging and supporting women to develop meaningful and enriching careers in the healthcare sector. HealthTrust Europe’s former Vice President for Strategic Sourcing delivered the keynote speech at the HCSA’s Women’s Network Conference 2023, and we are delighted to announce that we will be returning to exhibit at this year’s Women’s Network Conference on Wednesday 4th September.

The theme of this year’s Conference is Empowering Excellence: Navigating Challenges Building Connections and will be focused on driving excellence within the field to ensure it delivers the best outcomes for both its workforce and patients.

The Conference also presents a valuable opportunity to unite the sector in celebration of the contributions and achievements of women in healthcare whilst creating space for shared learning and for women to discuss their lived experiences. This sense of community is crucial to supporting women, making the healthcare industry transparent and honest, and fostering collaboration amongst professionals from all backgrounds and specialisms.

There is always more we can do as an organisation and wider industry to support women in the workforce. We welcome any attendees at this year’s conference interested in these topics to visit our stand and find out more about how HealthTrust Europe is supporting women in reaching their full potential.