Framework agreement for Clinical Communication Tools 2021 for NHS Organisations

The National Health Service Commissioning Board on behalf of NHSX, which is a joint unit formed by both NHS England and NHS Improvement and the Department of Health and Social Care (the Commissioner).

The Commissioner is now looking to refresh (re-procure) the Clinical Communications Tool framework to continue with the core aims of modernising the communications and tasks management systems throughout the NHS.

NHS organisations require dedicated modern communications and task management systems to enable staff time to be saved by reducing their need to use the historic 'bleep' system or by sending emails and numerous telephone calls. Staff need to share clinical information quickly and securely whilst at work (including between NHS Organisations and associated service Providers to the NHS), using tools that can be turned off when not at work.

The National Health Commissioning Board is continuing to look at Clinical Commissioning Tools services in the NHS, which include the following interventions:

• Address critical pain points for clinical and/or operational teams
• Release time for individuals and teams of NHS staff
• Enable streamlined care for patients
• Support with patients transfer of care within and between NHS organisations and associated service Providers to the NHS
• Readily be able to scale widely across the NHS with at least 1 established use case
• Have an online presence and/or WebApp available
• Be downloaded onto mobile devices or tablet devices

This new framework will be split into 3 Lots:

The Market Engagement Questionnaire (MEQ) has been developed for completion by Suppliers. To access the MEQ, Suppliers need to register with the Commissioner's online portal In-tend (eTendering portal).

Once Suppliers access In-Tend they can then follow the instructions to complete the MEQ. The Commissioner asks for completed MEQs to be returned in accordance with the instructions set out in the MEQ by 3rd September 2021 at 12:00.

The proposed scope of services is:

Lot 1 - Secure Clinical Communication tool / Messaging app - two-way messaging including basic image / video sharing. Please note that detailed requirements will be set out in the application specification.

Lot 2 - Secure Clinical Communication tool / Messaging App premium plus Enhanced Functionalities (defined below)

Lot 3 - Secure Clinical Communication tool / Messaging App premium plus Enhanced Functionalities and Additional Functions (as defined below)

Enhanced Functionalities: image / video transfer, task management, API integration and Interoperability with other clinical solutions and alert functionality, (including crash bleep replacement & break through silence if available), NHS directory. Please note that detailed requirements will be set out in the application specification.

Additional Functions: signposting, platform for Clinical A&G dialogue / communications. Please note that detailed requirements will be set out in the application specification.

Suppliers will be able to bid for multiple Lots.

This PIN is to enable the Commissioner to gather information. It is not the call for competition and does not constitute a commitment by the Commissioner to undertake any procurement exercise. The Commissioner reserves the right to change its approach or specifications.