NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) is making plans for a new version of its Digital Workplace Solutions procurement framework.
It has published a prior information notice to gauge interest and seek feedback from suppliers, indicating that the agreement could be worth up to £1.5 billion over four years.
It is expected to go into operation shortly before the existing framework expires in August of next year.
The framework provides NHS and social care organisations with a route for the procurement of full end-to-end IT solutions and individual elements.
The notice says the new version is expected to include commercial off-the-shelf software licensing, infrastructure equipment, support and management services, and fixed and mobile voice and data services.
Sustainability and social value
NHS SBS has also emphasised its commitment to working with suppliers dedicated to sustainability and social value, and said there will be a weighting with these elements in the tender.
It is planning to follow up publication of the notice with market engagement sessions through September and October.
A spokesperson said: “The NHS Long Term Plan underpins the importance of technology in the future NHS; setting out the critical priorities that will support digital transformation and provide a step change in the way the NHS cares for citizens.
“In keeping with this, the NHS is investing in improving NHS IT systems to make sure staff have the technology they need to do their jobs, that systems talk to each other and share vital information to support the delivery of care.”
