Framework Agreement for Capsule Endoscopy Managed Services

Capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic test used to examine the gastrointestinal tract and check for disorders and conditions such as Crohn's disease, polyps and malabsorption. The procedure is an alternative to traditional endoscopy and could provide a better patient experience.

The patient is prepared by attaching sensors to their abdomen. Sedation or anaesthesia are not needed before taking the capsule. The capsule is swallowed with water. The capsule has its own camera and light and takes a series of images. While the capsule passes through the body, it sends images to a data recorder which is typically worn in a shoulder bag, close to the waist. Patients can go about their normal routine and the entire procedure takes about eight hours.

Afterwards, images from the data recorder are downloaded and analysed to provide a report to the patient's consultant, who will review it with the patient. The capsule is disposable and will pass through the body naturally with bowel movement.

The procedure, and the reporting process, can be undertaken outside of a hospital setting. This can be more convenient for the patient, and free up hospital space.

Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust's Commercial Procurement Service (CPS) wishes to award a national framework agreement for the provision of a capsule endoscopy managed service which will allow NHS authorities and other public sector bodies to procure the services from a compliant purchasing framework.

The proposed framework agreement will allow NHS Organisations to procure these Services in a legally compliant manner, with the assurance that Suppliers have met rigorous criteria.