Acute Secondary Care Services across Cheshire and Merseyside

The NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board has completed a contract award for Acute Secondary Care Services in Cheshire and Merseyside. This falls under the health services category, specifically involving services such as medical care, diagnostic imaging, and urgent and emergency care. Notable for its absence of a competitive call for tender, the direct award was provided under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023.

The contract, valued at approximately £5,297,899 for one year, commenced on 1st April 2025 and will conclude on 31st March 2026. The services will be delivered in the Cheshire West and Chester region, with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board as the supplier. This tender provides an opportunity for large health service providers to secure contracts by demonstrating irreplaceable service offerings, as evidenced by the "No Reasonable Alternative Provider" criterion applied in this award.

Although this specific procurement does not offer immediate opportunities for competitive bids due to its direct award nature, it outlines key health service needs and standards that can guide other service providers in aligning their offerings for future opportunities with NHS organisations. Businesses focusing on comprehensive health services, particularly in secondary and critical care, would do well to prepare for similar opportunities by monitoring regulatory frameworks and fostering capabilities that address complex healthcare demands.