Provision of Urgent Award MSK and Physiotherapy Services on behalf of NHS Mid and South Essex ICB

The NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board has awarded a contract for urgent MSK (musculoskeletal) and Physiotherapy Services, under the Provider Selection Regime Regulations 2023. This award is necessary to ensure continuity of essential health services in Basildon, Brentwood, and Thurrock, especially in light of disruptions due to community service procurement challenges. With a contract value of £1,097,870 for the period 2025-26, Thrive Health Hubs Limited, trading as Thurrock Health Hubs, will continue to provide services as the incumbent supplier.

This is a 12-month contract effective immediately following the current contract expiration on 31st March 2025, notwithstanding any procurement process timelines that indicate new services may commence by 1st February 2026. The award procedure was executed without a prior formal call for competition due to its urgent nature and the pressing need to mitigate any risks to patient safety. This procurement presents significant opportunities for businesses specialising in healthcare services who may consider positioning themselves for future tenders related to the continuity and improvement of MSK and pain management services.

As NHS Mid and South Essex ICB looks to ensure no interruption in service delivery, enterprises experienced in providing high-quality healthcare services, particularly those with the capability to scale in response to unexpected healthcare demands, stand to gain from aligning their offerings with such public health needs. Engaging with this sector through innovative service delivery methods can pave the way for stronger partnerships and growth opportunities in future procurements.