Biochemistry Referrals - Epilepsy Society

The public procurement process involved the Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, operating as a regional or local authority, awarding a contract for biochemistry referral testing services titled "Biochemistry Referrals - Epilepsy Society". This contract pertains to the health care industry, specifically services provided by medical laboratories. It was carried out under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023, bypassing the standard Procurement Act.

The procurement is executed via a direct award process, without prior publication of a call for competition, and the opportunity was limited to The National Society for Epilepsy, based on the rationale that they are the sole capable provider. The contract spans from 2025 to 2028, with a total value of £6,000 and was formalised on 24th July 2025. This tender presents significant opportunities for businesses in the healthcare services and medical laboratory fields, particularly those that specialise in biochemistry referrals or possess unique capabilities that set them apart in specialised testing services.

Although this specific contract was awarded directly due to the unique circumstances and regulations surrounding it, businesses that can demonstrate distinct capabilities or provide specialised services may find similar opportunities in the future where direct award processes are applicable. These opportunities are best suited for entities that can address niche healthcare needs or have innovative solutions that meet the stringent criteria set by regulatory regimes like the provider selection process used here.