St Bartholomew’s and the Royal London Hospitals PFI Medical Equipment Service Market Test

United Kingdom

Capital Hospitals Limited (CHL) undertook a market test (re procurement) of its Medical Equipment Services (MES) as part of its PFI contractual obligations. Vercity Professional Services (VPS) were appointed to deliver this exercise independently on their behalf. While market testing of FM contracts is well established within the PFI sector, the market testing and re procurement of MES is highly specialised and was new to the industry. This makes the project a sector first and a strong example of leadership, collaboration and innovation.

The Project Team—Barts Health NHS Trust, CHL and VPS—is set to finalise the first UK Medical Equipment Service Market Test within an operational PFI project. At the time of writing, the forecast signature date is scheduled for completion by the end of Q1 2026. The scope of the MES includes the replacement, lifecycle management, maintenance and performance oversight of more than 100 units of complex imaging equipment, including MRI scanners, CT scanners and general X-ray systems. With engagement from Trust procurement, Medical Equipment Managers, clinicians and the Leadership Team, the team worked in partnership from pre-qualification to contract close. A key objective was to deliver a best-in-class imaging solution for the patients at a sustainable cost to the Trust. Regular operational meetings and steering groups ensured quick issue resolution and alignment. Trust requirements were fully reflected in the Invitation to Tender, including a Variant Option for a fully capitalised service. The outcome delivers significant savings over the 10 year term, alongside innovative service.