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NHS Launches Value-Based Procurement Pilot for Medical Tech

NHS shifts focus to long-term patient outcomes. Early adopters show promising savings and improved care.

In this picture we can see the doctor in white uniform explaining about the CT scan machine to 2...
In this picture we can see the doctor in white uniform explaining about the CT scan machine to 2 people wearing black coats. These two people are listening to the doctor.

NHS Launches Value-Based Procurement Pilot for Medical Tech

The NHS has initiated a significant shift in procurement strategy, launching value-based procurement (VBP) pilot studies for medical technology across England. This move, supported by Health Minister Zubir Ahmed, prioritizes long-term patient outcomes over the lowest upfront cost.

Thirteen NHS trusts will participate in the initial VBP pilots, with broader rollout expected by early 2026. NHS Supply Chain and NHS London Procurement Partnership will embed VBP across contracts and frameworks. The NHS spends around 10 billion GBP annually on medical technology and has historically favored lower initial cost.

VBP prioritizes long-term patient outcomes, safety, and whole-pathway value. It has shown promising results in early adopters. Barts Health NHS Trust saved around £103,000 annually using an innovative mesh that reduced infection rates and readmissions. University Hospitals of Leicester also saw savings through increased use of remote-monitoring functions for cardiac devices. Successful VBP adoption requires robust metrics, standardized procurement practice, and transparency in supplier claims.

The NHS is committed to this change, with Minister Ahmed emphasizing the 'invest to save' mentality. The initial pilots cover areas like cardiology, vascular devices, and AI applications in clinical settings. As the NHS moves towards VBP, it aims to improve patient care and reduce long-term costs.

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