Essential MedTech interaction events focusing on Value-Based Procurement
In the UK, a shift is underway in the MedTech sector, with the introduction of a new Value Based Procurement (VBP) methodology. This approach prioritises value over cost, focusing on long-term clinical outcomes, innovation, and system-wide benefits rather than short-term savings.
Several local NHS organizations are currently testing this draft new methodology. The department, through the MedTech Directorate of the Department of Health and Social Care, has called on MedTech developers and suppliers to come together with officials to discuss the VBP rollout.
Key aspects of the VBP methodology include:
- Broader impact evaluation: Technologies are assessed on clinical effectiveness, operational efficiencies, and contribution to overall system sustainability.
- System-wide value demonstration: Industry is encouraged to build business cases showing how innovations deliver benefits across the entire health and social care system, not just within isolated NHS budgets.
- Support for innovation and SMEs: The approach aims to foster investment in UK health technology by making it easier for small and medium enterprises to engage with NHS procurement.
- Reduction of health inequalities: VBP prioritises solutions that contribute to reducing health disparities and increasing access and inclusion.
Industry engagement is also crucial. Suppliers are urged to collaborate with NHS stakeholders to co-create shared business cases grounded in real-world pressures and system priorities, moving beyond simple ROI arguments to illustrate where and how value is realized across care pathways. This collaboration encourages transparency and alignment between suppliers and the NHS to enable adoption of impactful technologies.
The implications of this shift include a more sustainable procurement process that drives meaningful innovation adoption, supports the MedTech sector's growth, and improves patient outcomes. Frameworks like those for Endoscopy and Endourology now incorporate VBP principles to enable product switching and cost-effective alternatives linked to value commitments.
Additionally, upcoming NHS standardised VBP guidance, set to launch early next year, will formalize this approach for devices and digital products. The UK Government is seeking views on changes to key procurement guidelines in line with this new methodology.
The VBP rollout is also seeking partners for the pilot stage. Two online market engagement sessions for MedTech suppliers are scheduled for 7 and 13 May, inviting suppliers to register to attend one of the sessions.
For comments or questions about the article, Chris Whitehouse, a political consultant and expert on medical technology policy and regulation, can be contacted at [email protected]. Whitehouse Communications, where Whitehouse is a partner, is an advisor to MedTech suppliers.
Whitehouse is also the chair of the Urology Trade Association and the governor of the Anscombe Bioethics Centre. The VBP methodology prioritises solutions that contribute to reducing health disparities and increasing access and inclusion, such as addressing digital literacy or supporting vulnerable groups.
[1] Department of Health and Social Care, "Value-based Procurement: Guidance for MedTech", link [2] NHS England, "Endoscopy and Endourology VBP Framework", link [3] NHS England, "VBP Rollout", link [4] MedTech Directorate, "VBP for MedTech: Industry Engagement", link [5] NHS England, "Upcoming NHS Standardised VBP Guidance", link
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