PSR - Direct Award C - Provision of Urgent Care Response Services in East Kent

The procurement process for the "Provision of Urgent Care Response Services in East Kent" is spearheaded by the Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust. This contract is classified under community health services and falls within the services industry category. The procurement was initially planned to begin on the 27th of October 2025, concluding on the 31st of March 2026.

However, the direct award process under the Provider Selection Regime (PSR) has been abandoned following an internal review, which determined the route was inappropriate. The procurement involved a limited method without a prior call for competition, initially signalled by an intention to award notice under the PSR regulations 2023, with the original intention of awarding the contract to Thanet Health CIC. This contract would have been an excellent opportunity for businesses within the healthcare sector, particularly those offering community health services suitable for urgent care.

The contract's scope demands a quick access solution to a breadth of health and social care professionals, including physiotherapy and occupational therapy services. Businesses with capabilities in providing rapid-response healthcare, medication management, and support for independent living would have been prime contenders. However, given the abandonment of this award intention, other healthcare providers might now have the opportunity to prepare for potential future tendering possibilities if the Trust revisits this procurement need.