Frameworks are often an invaluable way to improve healthcare, but can seem hard to grasp to newcomers. We have laid out the basics of how to use them, and why you might want to.

What is a framework? 

A framework often refers to agreements, systems, or plans used to provide healthcare services, manage staff, and buy products.

They help ensure that everyone is following the same approach, making things work smoothly and efficiently.

There are different types of framework that are, as you probably guessed, used for different purposes.

To buy from a framework, you can start by searching for the framework that offers what you are looking for.

They are usually offered by organisations such as the NHS, Crown Commercial Service (CCS) and NHS SBS. You can find out what each of them offer online.

There are different ways to buy, but the services are usually separated into Lots. 

What are the benefits? 

The main benefit of using a framework is efficiency. Instead of searching online yourself for a specific system or agreement, users can find things in one place.

This means much of the heavy lifting is already done, and often makes the process a lot smoother.

For some frameworks, there is also a cost benefit. For example, you can buy a selection of frameworks in a package which could be cheaper overall instead of buying individually.

What are some examples? 

Let’s take a look at a couple of frameworks to put this into practice.

The RM6331 framework from Crown Commercial Service is for soft facilities management, and there are a variety of services that trusts and GPs can buy.

These include linen and laundry including the collection, wash and return of laundry and specialist laundry services, waste services including the collection, storage and removal of general, recycled, classified, clinical and medical waste.

As well as this, they can buy security including guarding services such as alarm response, access control, passes and perimeter guarding.

Visitor support services such as reception duties and telephony service and grounds maintenance (including soft landscaping, tree surgery, snow and ice clearance and planting) are also available.

Porterage services are purchasable, which includes transporting patients, stores, and equipment.

Trusts and GPs can also buy catering such as patient feeding, meeting hospitality, event catering, full restaurant services and vending services.

Finally, cleaning such as routine and reactive cleaning services, including pest control and ambulance vehicle decontamination is available.

This is a framework that encompasses a lot of different aspects of healthcare.

A specific benefit to this framework is that the framework supports the NHS in reaching its Net Zero target. This is something to look out for when researching frameworks, as it can support the NHS’ goal of reaching net zero by 2040.