Provision of Non-Obstetric Ultrasound Services for NHS Coventry and Rugby CCG

NHS Arden and Greater East Midlands Commissioning Support Unit, on behalf of NHS Coventry & Rugby Clinical Commissioning Group (the Commissioner) in association with NHS Warwickshire North CCG and NHS South Warwickshire CCG (the associate commissioners) sought to appoint a single suitably qualified and experienced provider for the provision of a Non-Obstetric Ultrasound Service.

The Service aims to offer direct access to ultrasound scans to GPs and other clinicians to aid in early diagnosis and avoidance of unnecessary referrals to Secondary Care Clinicians for conditions that can be appropriately managed within a Community setting, where it will improve access.

There are sustained and significant increases in radiology activity, driven by new and emerging technologies, an ageing patient population with changing health needs, and the drive towards 7-day working. The widely reported shortages in the diagnostic workforce are impacting upon the required diagnostic capacity being available and significant delays in scan to reporting timescales.

The NHS Long Term Plan requires the CCG to commission services that ensure patients get more options, better support, and properly joined-up care at the right time in the optimal care setting. There is a focus on 'out of hospital' care, faster diagnosis, person-centred and digitally enabled care. Furthermore, the CCG continues to seek improved access to diagnostic tests as part of the drive to reduce waiting times and improve choices for patients, and their carers/families.

This contract is being let for the period of 3 years with an option to extend for a further 12 months at the sole discretion of the Commissioner.