NICE launches new Framework Agreement for purchasing information resources
20 Mar 2013 12:58 PM
NHS institutions can now purchase journals, books and databases to support patient care and safety at competitive rates, thanks to a new Framework Agreement launched by NICE.
The NICE Electronic and Print Content Framework Agreement allows NHS and partner organisations in England and Wales to buy a range of print and electronic content, from 14 approved providers, such as BMJ Publishing, Oxford University Press, Pharmaceutical Press and Waterstones.
The Framework is compliant with the Official Journal of the European Community purchasing route, meaning that it will not be necessary for purchasers to take part in full competitive tendering.
Further benefits provided by the Framework include flexible and transparent purchasing models and methodologies. These will help NHS purchasers make informed and easily justified purchasing decisions.
NICE has agreed standard terms and conditions with all the appointed providers. The providers will also be performance-monitored by NICE.
The Framework is delivered and managed by NICE through funding provided by the Strategic Health Authority Library Leads (SHALL) on behalf of the NHS. It replaces and expands on the previous Buying Solutions framework hosted by the Government Procurement Service.
Mark Salmon, Programme Manager, Evidence Resources said: “NICE is delighted to launch the new Framework Agreement for Electronic and Print Content.
"It will be a valuable tool for NHS institutions to use, allowing them to make informed purchasing decisions from appointed suppliers."
David Stewart, SHALL Content and Collections Development Group Chair, said: "The SHALL is delighted that the new Framework Agreement for the purchase of books, journals and point of care tools in both paper and electronic formats is now available for NHS organisations in England to use.
"This has been an excellent example of collaborative working between SHALL and NICE.
He added: "The Framework Agreement means that the NHS can purchase a wide range of value-for-money, evidence resources to support patient care and safety."
Full details of the products, services, and purchasing and pricing models available through the Framework are available from the Journals and Databases page of the NHS Evidence website.
If you have any further questions regarding the Framework please contact NICE at contactus@evidence.nhs.uk