The new framework streamlines procurement to upgrade NHS’s outdated IT systems and get ‘analogue to digital’ switch underway.

Corporate services provider NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) and North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC) have partnered to jointly launch a new framework agreement – Tech Devices – Link 4.

The NHS is grappling with challenges in upgrading outdated hardware that is often incompatible with the latest operating systems or software. The framework agreement streamlines procurement, enabling teams to buy the latest essential end-user hardware and devices from carefully vetted suppliers, quickly and compliantly.

Endorsed and recommended by NHS England as a route to market for trusts procuring digital and IT solutions, this framework agreement also extends beyond the NHS to the wider public sector—including education trusts, universities, and local authorities, enabling them to leverage the buying power of the NHS.

“The NHS’s vision of a streamlined, inclusive digital health service depends on a robust IT infrastructure. Modernising IT equipment is vital to overcoming challenges, enabling innovation, and ensuring healthcare professionals can prioritise patient care,” said Sakir Mahmud, Principal Category Manager – Digital and IT at NHS SBS.

Modernising for a digital future

Legacy tech systems in the NHS often fail to meet the demands of modern healthcare, disrupting workflows and limiting innovation.

Moreover, the Darzi Review identified critical issues facing the NHS, including growing waiting lists, declining public health, and the pressing need for digital transformation, whilst the government’s forthcoming 10-year plan will highlight the transition from analogue to digital as one of three key shifts for the NHS.

Obsolete desktops, laptops, and mobile devices struggle to run advanced software like Electronic Patient Record (EPR) systems, hindering progress and preventing NHS Trusts from upgrading effectively.
This affects healthcare professionals, who experience delays due to malfunctioning equipment, sees clinicians spending valuable time resolving IT issues, while administrative staff face inefficiencies in managing critical information.

“Outdated IT hardware and technology affects team morale, slows innovation and hampers patient care. Investing in advanced IT equipment, therefore, is key to improving productivity and care,” said Adele Guettat, Category Manager – Technology (ICT) at NOE CPC.

“Without modern devices, NHS trusts cannot upgrade systems like EPR. Community nurses lose valuable time on administrative tasks instead of patient visits. Legacy systems lack robust cybersecurity measures, leaving sensitive patient data vulnerable to breaches. Adoption of advanced technologies – like artificial intelligence, are hampered stifling opportunities for innovation and patient care.”

Comprehensive and sustainable solutions

The Tech Devices – Link 4 framework agreement comprises four Lots (categories) covering essential devices like desktops, laptops, tablets, and healthcare-specific equipment, such as medical workstations for efficient medication rounds, and clinical diagnostic monitors and displays.

To support sustainability, the Refurbished and Remanufactured Devices Lot offers high-performance, cost-effective solutions that align with the NHS’s net zero ambitions, supporting sustainability goals.

Mahmud and Guettat concluded: “Through enabling the NHS to adopt transformative digital systems, national priorities are supported, patient care is improved, and efficiency across frontline and back-office functions enhanced.”

For more information, contact the NHS SBS team at: sbs.hello@nhs.net and NOE CPC at: enquiries@noecpc.nhs.uk