NHS Shifts to 'Invest to Save' Procurement Strategy for Better Patient Outcomes
The NHS has initiated a significant shift in procurement strategy, moving away from lowest upfront cost to prioritize long-term patient outcomes and whole-pathway value. This 'invest to save' approach, dubbed value based procurement (VBP), is being piloted across England with an initial focus on cardiology and vascular treatment, as well as AI use in clinical settings.
Thirteen NHS trusts are currently involved in these patient-focused pilot studies, although their names have not been individually disclosed. The NHS Supply Chain’s Cardiology and Vascular Framework, valued at around £1 billion, is a key component of this initial rollout. The NHS spends approximately 10 billion GBP annually on medical technology, historically favoring lower initial costs.
The VBP pilots aim to enhance patient outcomes, boost productivity, and lower long-term costs. Successful adoption of VBP requires robust metrics, standardized procurement practices, and transparency in supplier claims. Health Minister Zubir Ahmed has framed this move as an investment in long-term patient care and sustainability. University Hospitals of Leicester have already seen promising results, reducing hospitalizations by 43% using an implanted remote-monitoring function for cardiac devices. Similarly, Barts Health NHS Trust saved around £103,000 annually by implementing an innovative mesh that reduced infection rates and readmissions.
The NHS's VBP pilots are expected to expand to a broader rollout by early 2026, signaling a significant change in procurement strategy. By focusing on long-term patient outcomes and safety, the NHS seeks to improve care and reduce costs in the long run.
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