Health Tech Alliance issues call for Value-Based Procurement adoption through new roadmap

The Health Tech Alliance, an informal coalition of health technology companies and stakeholders from across the NHS and wider health system, has published a report detailing the need for reform in NHS procurement.

The findings, shaped by a series of workshops with NHS leaders, clinicians, industry, and policymakers, reveals how bureaucratic complexity and fragmented pathways are slowing the adoption of life-improving innovation across the health service.

The report, Unlocking innovation: recommendations for transforming NHS health tech procurement by the Health Tech Alliance sets out a roadmap for creating a more streamlined, transparent, and innovation-friendly procurement system; essential for delivering better patient outcomes and long-term value for the NHS.

With the 10 Year Health Plan introducing standardised value-based procurement guidance for devices and digital products starting early next year, this report is a timely analysis of the current system and necessary practical steps for driving systematic change.

Key recommendations include:

Streamlining central procurement processes and reducing administrative burden for all stakeholders.
Prioritising value-based procurement that considers long-term outcomes, not just short-term costs.
Creating a central portal and knowledge hub to support SMEs and innovators.
Enhancing early engagement and knowledge sharing across NHS organisations.
Ring-fencing innovation budgets at trust and ICS level.
Improving coordination and consistency across Integrated Care Systems to reduce fragmentation and spread best practice.
Investing in education and training to support a culture of innovation and value-based decision making in NHS procurement teams.

“The NHS stands at a critical juncture. With unprecedented and growing pressures on our health services, there has never been a greater need to unlock the potential of health tech innovation,” comments Dame Barbara Hakin, HTA Chair and former Deputy Chief Executive of NHSE. “Last week’s commitment to better value-based procurement practices in the 10 Year Plan is a vital step forward, reinforcing the need for a smarter, more strategic approach to equipping the NHS. Our report brings together the voices of clinicians, industry, and NHS leaders to provide a clear and practical roadmap for procurement reform – one that will prioritise high-impact technologies, deliver more value, and ultimately ensure better care for patients.

“By supporting the adoption of evidence-based innovation and fostering closer collaboration between policymakers, the NHS, and the health tech sector, we have a unique opportunity to drive real, tangible progress for patients and the UK health tech sector alike. We thank our procurement workshop attendees for their invaluable contributions as we work towards a stronger, more sustainable future for our health system.”

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