LSL/MED/0242 The Supply & Support of HCID Tactical Patient Transfer

MOD requires a standardised, interoperable and interchangeable HCID patient transfer capability that supports an end-to-end Operational Patient Care Pathway (OPCP) across MOD, NHS and NATO (c.30 international partner nations).

The EpiShuttle is the established platform currently used across this pathway, enabling patient handover, transfer and continued treatment within the same containment device, supported by common procedures, training and equipment compatibility. Adoption of an alternative isolation system would remove this interchangeability and require transfer between dissimilar systems, increasing operational complexity and risk.

MOD has therefore identified the EpiShuttle as the only solution capable of delivering the required interoperability and continuity of care across the HCID pathway.

Market analysis and supplier confirmation have established the EpiGuard, the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM),is the sole supplier and distributor of the Epishuttle to the UK market and no authorised alternative distributors are available

Accordingly, a Direct Award is justified under Schedule 5 Paragraph 6 of the Procurement Act 2023 due to an absence of competition for technical reasons.

(PA23 Schedule 5 Paragraph 6)

6. (a) Due to an absence of competition for technical reasons, only a particular supplier can supply the goods, services or works required and,
7. (b) There are no reasonable alternatives to those goods, services or works.