A Healthcare Overview of the New Procurement Act

Does the new Procurement Act simplify procurement and purchasing within healthcare, or make it more complex?

Join us as we dive into a healthcare overview of the new procurement act and establish why it has been changed, what the key changes are, and what that means for your organisation.

TOPICS WE WILL COVER:

What NHS Professionals Need to Know

The public procurement landscape in the UK is undergoing a significant shift following the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023 on 24 February 2025, and as one of the largest public procurement organisations in the UK, this includes the procurement activities of the NHS.

This new legislation promises a streamlined and more flexible approach to how public sector bodies such as the NHS will secure essential goods and services. For healthcare professionals and clinical executives within the NHS, understanding the implications of this Act is crucial for effective resource management and, ultimately, enhanced patient care.

Why the Overhaul?

Before leaving the European Union, public procurement was governed by four complex sets of regulations. The UK government recognised the opportunity to consolidate these into a single, simplified framework.

With public procurement accounting for over £400 billion in the 2023/24 financial year, a more efficient system is crucial for maximising the value of every pound spent.

What the Changes Mean for NHS Procurement Teams 

There are several core objectives of the Procurement Act 2023 that will benefit the NHS…

Simplify and Streamline

Replace the previous complex rules with a clearer, less bureaucratic framework, reducing administrative burdens and freeing up valuable time and resources for NHS procurement teams.

Enhance Transparency

Introduce a new central digital platform, building upon the existing Contracts Finder, to provide suppliers with improved visibility of procurement opportunities and reduce duplication, promoting fairness and accessibility.

Drive Value Beyond Price

Shifting the focus from purely cost-driven decisions to a broader assessment of value, with quality, social value and sustainability playing a more significant role in the decision-making process, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes for patient care and the environment.

Foster Innovation and Collaboration

Encourage earlier engagement with suppliers and more flexible procurement procedures to promote innovation and stronger, more collaborative partnerships.

Support Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

Reduce barriers to entry, fostering a more diverse and competitive supplier market that the NHS can benefit from.

Strengthen Integrity

Enhance rules around conflicts of interest, ensuring fair and transparent procurement processes that maintain public trust.

Important Considerations for Existing Frameworks

Existing frameworks that the NHS currently uses will continue to operate under the previous legislation until their expiry dates (typically a maximum of four years). This will provide a degree of stability for procurement teams who may still be navigating the new regulations. However, as these frameworks expire, all new procurement activities will fall under the remit of the Procurement Act 2023.

Sharpsmart: Aligned with the Future of NHS Procurement

At Sharpsmart, our commitment has always been to delivering value beyond just price, aligning us perfectly with the principles of the new Procurement Act. As a reliable healthcare waste partner to the NHS with a proven track record spanning some 24+ years, you can count on us for the support and guidance you deserve.

So, how exactly does Sharpsmart align with the new Procurement Act?

The Procurement Act 2023 represents an opportunity for the NHS to build a more efficient, transparent, and value-driven procurement system. While change can bring questions, the ultimate goal is to empower the NHS to secure the best possible resources for delivering exceptional patient care and contributing to healthier communities.

Sharpsmart is committed to understanding and aligning with these new regulations, and we are ready to partner with you on that journey.

Additional Resources:

For more information on the Procurement Act 2023, please refer to the following resources: