Urgent search for collaborators for the initial phase of the VBP project rollout
The UK government has announced a call for NHS trusts and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) of all sizes and specialties to participate in the pilot stage of the rollout of Value Based Procurement (VBP) in the NHS in England. This initiative is a key part of the UK's NHS 10-Year Plan and the Life Sciences Sector plan.
Chris Whitehouse, a political consultant and expert on medical technology policy and regulation, reported on the call for potential VBP pilots. He highlighted that MedTech suppliers can assist in this process by collaborating with NHS organisations, providing evidence on clinical and cost effectiveness, engaging in co-development or pilot evaluation processes, offering data analytics, and supporting education and training on new technologies for healthcare staff.
Although the search did not provide explicit information on the deadline for NHS organisations to nominate themselves for potential VBP pilots, it is common for such deadlines to be announced by NHS England or relevant procurement bodies through targeted calls for expressions of interest within a defined period before pilot launches. These deadlines are usually publicized on NHS procurement channels or procurement frameworks websites.
In this instance, the deadline for NHS organisations to express interest is 22nd August. The pilots are being sought in all seven regions of the NHS in England and can involve procurement for any MedTech product, including equipment, digital, consumable, and implantable.
The UK's Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is urgently seeking potential pilot stage projects for the rollout of VBP. The government is also committed to publishing national VBP guidance in early Spring 2026. For precise deadlines and detailed guidance, NHS organisations and suppliers should refer to official NHS England publications, procurement portals, or direct communications from the Value Based Procurement program coordinators.
Since the search did not yield direct details, it is recommended to check NHS England’s latest announcements or contact relevant Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) or procurement leads for the current application timeline and procedural support for VBP pilots.
Science plays a crucial role in the development and implementation of the Value Based Procurement (VBP) initiative, as it provides evidence on clinical and cost effectiveness for MedTech products. This health-and-wellness focus aligns with the UK's NHS 10-Year Plan and Life Sciences Sector plan, and extends to finance and business areas, as VBP also promotes efficient use of resources and encourages collaborations between NHS organisations and suppliers.
