Specialist Fertility Services to Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board

The NHS Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board has completed the procurement process for specialist fertility services, with the contract awarded to Bath Fertility Centre Limited. This procurement is categorised under the health services industry, specifically focusing on in vitro fertilisation services for the UKK12 region, which includes Bath. The contract is governed by the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023 and not by the Public Contracts Regulations 2015, following a direct award procedure without prior competitive tendering.

The decision to award was approved on 1st May 2024, with the contract commencing on 1st April 2024 and lasting until 31st March 2027. The procurement utilised a limited method due to its specific regulatory framework, with the awarded contract being of minimal monetary value. This awarded tender presents significant opportunities for businesses specialising in healthcare and fertility services, particularly those capable of offering niche, high-quality fertility treatments and solutions.

SMEs with expertise in procedures such as IVF, IUI, and other assisted reproductive technologies are well-suited to explore similar procurement opportunities. Engaging with contracts of this nature allows businesses to establish long-term relationships with NHS entities, providing a stable foundation for financial and operational growth. The involvement of Bath Fertility Centre Limited, an SME, demonstrates that smaller entities can successfully compete and secure contracts in specialised health services, potentially inspiring other SMEs to pursue opportunities under the PSR framework.