Automated Endoscope Washer Disinfectors

Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust previously awarded the Automated Endoscope Washer Disinfectors Pay Per Use (PPU) contract following a competitive procurement process via the NHS SBS framework. The existing contract and extension arrangements expired on 31 July 2026. The Trust is currently reviewing alternative endoscope washer technologies available within the market and requires sufficient time to undertake pre-market engagement, develop a future specification and complete a compliant competitive procurement process for a longer-term replacement solution.

The proposed 12‑month extension with the incumbent supplier, Wassenburg Medical, is necessary to ensure continuity of a critical endoscopy decontamination service whilst the future procurement exercise is undertaken. Failure to maintain this service would present a significant risk to the delivery of patient care and the effective operation of the Endoscopy Service. The contract value for the extension period from 01 August 2026 to 31 July 2027.

Alternative framework arrangements have been reviewed; however, an equivalent Pay Per Use solution capable of meeting the Trust's current operational requirements is not presently available through those routes. This extension is intended as a short-term and transitional arrangement only.

The Trust is actively progressing market engagement activities and intends to undertake a compliant competitive procurement process for a longer-term replacement solution. The extension is limited to the minimum period considered necessary to maintain continuity of the endoscopy decontamination service, mitigate risks to patient care and allow sufficient time for completion of the future procurement exercise.