Wirral Palliative Care Emergency Medicines Service

The NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board has completed a procurement process under the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023 for the "Wirral Palliative Care Emergency Medicines Service." The contract, which began on 1st April 2025 and will end on 31st March 2026, focuses on health and social work services with the goal of enhancing access to essential palliative care medicines in the Wirral region (UKD74). This procurement was conducted through a limited process, specifically a direct award without prior publication, as there was no realistic alternative provider.

The process culminated with the contract award decision approved by the Finance, Investment, Resources Committee on 19th November 2024. This tender offers significant opportunities for growth to businesses specialising in pharmacy and healthcare services, particularly those already operational within the Wirral area. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) such as Claughton Pharmacy, Heatherlands Pharmacy, and Manor Pharmacy, as well as larger entities like Boots UK Limited, have already secured active contracts, highlighting the competitive yet accessible nature of such awards.

Pharmacies and healthcare service providers that can deliver reliable access to medications and provide professional advice and support will be well-positioned to compete in similar tenders in the future, thereby expanding their market presence and service capabilities.