NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) and North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC) have partnered to launch a new framework agreement to upgrade the NHS's outdated IT systems.

Tech Devices – Link 4 aims to streamline procurement, enabling teams to buy the latest essential end-user hardware and devices from carefully vetted suppliers, quickly and compliantly.

The framework is also available to the wider public sector and is endorsed and recommended by NHS England.

The framework agreement includes four Lots, covering essential devices like desktops, laptops, tablets, and healthcare-specific equipment, such as medical workstations for efficient medication rounds, and clinical diagnostic monitors and displays.

Sakir Mahmud, principal category manager – digital and IT at NHS SBS said: “The NHS’s vision of a streamlined, inclusive digital health service depends on a robust IT infrastructure. Modernising IT equipment is vital to overcoming challenges, enabling innovation, and ensuring healthcare professionals can prioritise patient care.”

Adele Guettat, category manager – technology (ICT) at NOE CPC said: "“Outdated IT hardware and technology affects team morale, slows innovation and hampers patient care. Investing in advanced IT equipment, therefore, is key to improving productivity and care.

“Without modern devices, NHS trusts cannot upgrade systems like EPR. Community nurses lose valuable time on administrative tasks instead of patient visits. Legacy systems lack robust cybersecurity measures, leaving sensitive patient data vulnerable to breaches. Adoption of advanced technologies - like artificial intelligence, are hampered stifling opportunities for innovation and patient care.”